Feast of Pentecost Discussion Questions

A Conversation with the Weekend Readings

Theme: Pentecost 50 Days

First Reading: ACTS 2:1-11

Second Reading: 1 COR 12:3b-7, 12-13

Gospel: JOHN 20:19-23

Discussion Questions

                       

1)    In the footnotes of the Harper Collins NRSV Study Bible it is written: The Jewish festival of Pentecost (Shavuot) derives its name from the fifty days that separate it from Passover.  In the Christian tradition, Pentecost is referred to as the “birthday of the Church” and is separated by fifty days from Easter. What has been your understanding of the connection between the celebration of Passover and the celebration of the Last Supper?  

2)    The early Church consisted of primarily Jewish followers. The decision to allow Gentiles into the flock did not immediately emerge and when it did, Peter and Paul disagreed on the requirements for conversion.  This was a major agenda item at the first council in Jerusalem held around 48 AD. There was a swirling of customs and practices in these first few centuries. Jewish traditions strongly influenced developing Christian practice.  Shavuot was a celebration of the gifts God gave the Jewish people in the Torah.  Pentecost is a celebration the gift of the Holy Spirit given to the Church.  What underlying themes connect these two celebrations? Where do they diverge?

3)    “And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house… Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire.” What comes to mind when you hear this passage?  Where else do we find stories of the Spirit manifesting in the form of fire and in the Scriptures?

4)    In 1^st Corinthians we find the image of the Body of Christ.  This profound image of the unique distribution of gifts and talents was an integral part of the theology that emerged at Vatican Council II.   In this letter from St. Paul, it is clear that every part of the body is equal in dignity and value, though it differs in service.  Take a moment to think about your role in the Church.  What part of Christ’s body do you most identify with, and why? Has this changed over the years or has it been consistent? 

5)    The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (first mentioned in Isaiah and preached by Paul) are bestowed in baptism (wisdom, understanding, knowledge, piety, awe, courage, and counsel). They empower us to live fully as the Body of Christ.  Which of these Gifts of the Holy Spirit are most needed in our world today?  Our Church? Why?

6)     In the Gospel, we hear the words, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” What do you think this means? How has it been interpreted historically?  In all three of the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke)  we are told the only unforgivable sin is a sin against the Holy Spirit.  How do you interpret this?

7)    In a couple of sentences, how would you describe the Holy Spirit to someone.