Explain Acts 2:17 KJV--Perplexity

 

 Acts 2:17 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reads: "And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams." This verse is part of the Apostle Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost, where he quotes the prophecy from Joel 2:28. The context is that the Holy Spirit has just descended upon the disciples, enabling them to speak in different languages. This event puzzled many Jews who were in Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost, as they could not understand how these Galileans could speak their native languages

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. Peter explains that this event is the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy, marking the beginning of the "last days" or the Messianic era. The "last days" is a term used in the Old Testament to signify the coming of the Messiah

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. The pouring out of the Spirit signifies the widespread availability of divine revelation and spiritual gifts, not limited by age, gender, or social status. The prophecy indicates that sons and daughters will prophesy, young men will see visions, and old men will dream dreams

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. The prophecy's fulfillment began at Pentecost, but it continues throughout the history of the Church. Examples include Philip the evangelist's daughters prophesying (Acts 21:8–9), Paul seeing a vision of a man inviting him to Macedonia (Acts 16:9), and Cornelius, a Gentile, seeing an angel in a vision who tells him to send for Peter (Acts 10:2)

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. However, it's important to note that while the prophecy began to be fulfilled at Pentecost, its full and final fulfillment awaits Christ's second coming. Some aspects of Joel's prophecy will happen during the time of Jacob's trouble, while other aspects will happen after Christ's return

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. In summary, Acts 2:17 signifies the beginning of a new era in God's relationship with humanity, marked by the widespread outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the democratization of prophetic gifts. It is a promise of God's Spirit being available to all people, leading to prophetic utterances, visions, and dreams

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 Acts 2:17 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible is part of the Apostle Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost. The verse reads: "And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams." This verse is a quotation from the prophecy of Joel 2:28.

The context of this verse is that the Holy Spirit has descended upon the disciples, enabling them to speak in different languages. This event puzzled many Jews who were in Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost, as they could not understand how these Galileans could speak their native languages[1].

Peter explains that this event is the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy, marking the beginning of the "last days" or the Messianic era. The "last days" is a term used in the Old Testament to signify the coming of the Messiah[2]. The pouring out of the Spirit signifies the widespread availability of divine revelation and spiritual gifts, not limited by age, gender, or social status. The prophecy indicates that sons and daughters will prophesy, young men will see visions, and old men will dream dreams[1][2].

The prophecy's fulfillment began at Pentecost, but it continues throughout the history of the Church. Examples include Philip the evangelist's daughters prophesying (Acts 21:8–9), Paul seeing a vision of a man inviting him to Macedonia (Acts 16:9), and Cornelius, a Gentile, seeing an angel in a vision who tells him to send for Peter (Acts 10:2)[1].

However, it's important to note that while the prophecy began to be fulfilled at Pentecost, its full and final fulfillment awaits Christ's second coming. Some aspects of Joel's prophecy will happen during the time of Jacob's trouble, while other aspects will happen after Christ's return[3].

In summary, Acts 2:17 signifies the beginning of a new era in God's relationship with humanity, marked by the widespread outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the democratization of prophetic gifts. It is a promise of God's Spirit being available to all people, leading to prophetic utterances, visions, and dreams[1][2][3].

Citations:
[1] https://www.bibleref.com/Acts/2/Acts-2-17.html
[2] https://biblehub.com/commentaries/acts/2-17.htm
[3] https://dailyverse.knowing-jesus.com/acts-2-17
[4] https://www.christianity.com/wiki/bible/what-does-it-mean-that-your-young-men-will-see-visions.html
[5] https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+2%3A17&version=NIV
[6] https://www.studylight.org/commentary/acts/2-17.html
[7] https://versebyversecommentary.com/2022/01/28/acts-217f/
[8] https://www.godconversations.com/blog/read-bible-wrong/

What is the difference between "your sons and daughters shall prophesy" and "your young men shall see visions" in acts 2:17

The phrases "your sons and daughters shall prophesy" and "your young men shall see visions" in Acts 2:17, while similar in that they both describe the reception of divine revelation, differ in the manner and perhaps the content of the revelation received. "Your sons and daughters shall prophesy" indicates that both male and female members of the community will be empowered to speak forth messages from God, which could include foretelling future events or proclaiming divine truths. This is a significant statement because it shows that the gift of prophecy is not limited by gender. In the context of the early church, this was evidenced by individuals like Philip's daughters who had the gift of prophecy (Acts 21:8–9)

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. On the other hand, "your young men shall see visions" suggests that younger members of the community will receive divine messages through visual experiences, known as visions. These visions are typically understood as waking experiences where God communicates His will or reveals spiritual truths. The term "visions" implies a full activity of spiritual power and is associated with the younger prophets

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. Both expressions emphasize the inclusive nature of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which is bestowed upon all people, regardless of age or gender. The poetic language used by the prophet Joel and quoted by Peter on the day of Pentecost indicates that the gifts of the Spirit, including prophecy and visions, are available to the entire community of believers

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. The significance of these phrases lies in the democratization of spiritual gifts that occurred with the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. It marked a new era where divine revelation was no longer confined to a select few but was accessible to all believers, thus empowering the early church to carry out its mission

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 How does Acts 2:17 relate to the gift of wisdom

 

 The verse Acts 2:17, which quotes the prophecy of Joel 2:28, is not directly related to the gift of wisdom. Instead, it focuses on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the various ways in which people will receive messages from God. The verse speaks of the democratization of spiritual experiences, where both men and women, young and old, will have access to divine revelations through prophesying, seeing visions, and dreaming dreams[2].

While the gift of wisdom is a significant spiritual gift mentioned in the New Testament, it is not specifically addressed in Acts 2:17. The gift of wisdom is distinct from the specific forms of divine communication mentioned in this verse. It is described in the New Testament as a gift given by the Holy Spirit for the purpose of enabling believers to understand and apply spiritual truths in a practical and effective manner[4].

Therefore, Acts 2:17 is more closely related to the broader theme of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the various ways in which God communicates with His people, rather than specifically addressing the gift of wisdom.

Citations:
[1] https://www.studylight.org/commentary/acts/2-17.html
[2] https://www.bibleref.com/Acts/2/Acts-2-17.html
[3] https://versebyversecommentary.com/2022/01/28/acts-217f/
[4] https://hermeneutics.stackexchange.com/questions/53853/is-acts-217-applicable-today
[5] https://dailyverse.knowing-jesus.com/acts-2-17

 

 

The gift of wisdom, as mentioned in the New Testament, is distinct from other gifts of the Spirit such as the gift of knowledge, prophecy, and tongues.

 The following points highlight the differences:

1. **Source and Imparter**: Both wisdom and knowledge are gifts from the Holy Spirit. They are part of the various gifts given by the Spirit, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:4-11. The source and imparter of these gifts is God's Holy Spirit[1].

2. **Nature of the Gifts**:
   - **Knowledge**: The gift of knowledge involves acquiring facts and reciting God's truth. It pertains to understanding and knowing the truths of God[2].
   - **Wisdom**: The gift of wisdom, on the other hand, is the skillful application of knowledge. It involves the ability to make decisions and give guidance that is based on a deep understanding of God's truth[2].

3. **Expression of the Gifts**:
   - **Knowledge**: It is expressed through the utterance of knowledge, which involves sharing and speaking forth God's truth[3].
   - **Wisdom**: Wisdom is expressed through the word of wisdom or the message of wisdom, which involves imparting practical and insightful guidance based on a deep understanding of God's truth[3].

4. **Purpose**:
   - **Knowledge**: The gift of knowledge focuses on understanding and reciting God's truth[4].
   - **Wisdom**: The gift of wisdom focuses on the practical application of God's truth in guiding and advising others[4].

In summary, while both wisdom and knowledge are gifts from the Holy Spirit, they differ in their nature, expression, and purpose. The gift of knowledge pertains to understanding and reciting God's truth, while the gift of wisdom involves the skillful application of knowledge in giving practical and insightful guidance.

Citations:
[1] https://christianity.stackexchange.com/questions/30210/difference-between-wisdom-and-knowledge-in-1-cor-12
[2] https://newspring.cc/articles/how-to-recognize-the-gift-of-wisdom
[3] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/spiritual-gifts-study-knowledge-wisdom-dr-terry-gant
[4] https://www.gotquestions.org/word-wisdom-knowledge.html
[5] https://hermeneutics.stackexchange.com/questions/54131/difference-between-wisdom-knowledge-and-prophecy

 

How does the gift of wisdom relate to the gift of discernment

 

 The gift of wisdom and the gift of discernment are closely related in the context of spiritual gifts. The gift of discernment is a kind of wisdom that comes from insight as much as from learned experience and knowledge. It is a way of having insight in determining the true nature of a situation, person, or thing. People with the spiritual gift of discernment have it, though wisdom and discernment can be bestowed to those who ask for it as well[1].

The gift of wisdom, on the other hand, is the skillful application of knowledge. It involves the ability to make decisions and give guidance that is based on a deep understanding of God's truth. Wisdom is not flashy, but wisdom is necessary for the church to live and love like Jesus today[2].

In summary, while the gift of wisdom involves the skillful application of knowledge, the gift of discernment is a kind of wisdom that allows individuals to have insight in determining the true nature of a situation, person, or thing. Both gifts are essential for the edification and guidance of the Church.

Citations:
[1] https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/understanding-the-spiritual-gift-of-discernment.html
[2] https://newspring.cc/articles/how-to-recognize-the-gift-of-wisdom
[3] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/spiritual-gifts-study-knowledge-wisdom-dr-terry-gant
[4] https://www.enlivenpublishing.com/2010/08/08/8-signs-you-may-have-the-spiritual-gift-of-discernment/
[5] https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/stewart_don/faq/the-various-gifts-of-the-holy-spirit-part-two/18-what-is-the-gift-of-discernment-of-spirits.cfm

 

 How can one develop the gift of discernment

 

 To develop the gift of discernment, individuals can consider the following approaches based on the search results:

1. **Prayer**: Asking Heavenly Father or the Holy Spirit for the gift of discernment is a common and fundamental practice. This involves seeking the Spirit's guidance and being open to receiving the gift through prayer[1][2].

2. **Constant Contact with the Spirit**: Being in constant contact with the Spirit through prayer, scripture study, and obedience to God's laws is essential for developing the gift of discernment. This includes maintaining an environment where the Spirit can dwell and consistently following the promptings of the Spirit[2].

3. **Stewardship and Practice**: Growing the gift of discernment requires stewardship and practice. This involves using and developing the gift through practical application, perseverance, and learning from trial and error. It is through practice that individuals can grow in their spiritual gift of discernment[3].

4. **Seeking Greater Levels of Discernment**: Individuals can ask the Holy Spirit for greater levels and gifts of discernment. This involves exercising the gift by learning to discern the influence of spirits and seeking to increase its use in various areas of life[5].

In summary, developing the gift of discernment involves seeking it through prayer, maintaining constant contact with the Spirit, practicing stewardship, and seeking greater levels of discernment through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is a process that requires openness, persistence, and a willingness to learn and grow in the exercise of this spiritual gift.

Citations:
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/latterdaysaints/comments/uqii5z/how_to_develop_the_spirit_of_discernment/?rdt=45251
[2] https://www.thechurchnews.com/1995/11/18/23254722/how-to-develop-the-gift-of-discernment
[3] https://www.enlivenpublishing.com/2010/09/13/8-ways-to-grow-the-gift-of-discernment/
[4] https://www.enlivenpublishing.com/2010/08/08/8-signs-you-may-have-the-spiritual-gift-of-discernment/
[5] https://rootsandwingsmi.org/how-to-use-the-gift-of-discerning-of-spirits/

 

Some common misconceptions about the gift of discernment include:

1. **Having All the Answers**: One misconception is that having discernment means having all the answers or never making mistakes. In reality, discernment is a process and does not guarantee infallibility[1].

2. **Criticism and Judgment**: Another misconception is that the gift of discernment gives individuals the right to criticize or tear down others. Using the gift to tear down a church, person, or leader is a misuse of the gift. It is important to use the gift of discernment with love and humility[3].

3. **Feeling Different**: People with the gift of discernment may feel different from others, as they may see and sense things that others do not see. However, feeling different does not mean being better or more spiritual than others. It is important to handle this gift with humility and love[3].

4. **Confusion and Misunderstanding**: There can be confusion and misunderstanding about the nature of the gift of discernment. Some may view it as a temporary gift, while others believe it is necessary for the church today. There are different perspectives on the nature and usage of this gift[5].

In summary, some misconceptions about the gift of discernment include expecting infallibility, using it for criticism or judgment, feeling superior due to the gift, and confusion about its nature and usage within the church. It is important to understand and use this gift with humility, love, and in accordance with biblical principles.

Citations:
[1] https://spiritualask.com/is-discernment-a-spiritual-gift/
[2] https://www.thechurchnews.com/1995/11/18/23254722/how-to-develop-the-gift-of-discernment
[3] https://www.enlivenpublishing.com/2010/08/08/8-signs-you-may-have-the-spiritual-gift-of-discernment/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/latterdaysaints/comments/uqii5z/how_to_develop_the_spirit_of_discernment/?rdt=45251
[5] https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/stewart_don/faq/the-various-gifts-of-the-holy-spirit-part-two/18-what-is-the-gift-of-discernment-of-spirits.cfm

 

 

Differentiating between the gift of discernment and personal opinions

 

Differentiating between the gift of discernment and personal opinions involves understanding the nature of the gift and its source. The gift of discernment, also known as the gift of distinguishing between spirits, is a spiritual ability to differentiate between divine, demonic, and human influences, and understand the hidden motives behind actions and situations[2]. Here are some ways to differentiate between the two:

1. **Source**: The gift of discernment comes from the Holy Spirit and is a way of having insight in determining the true nature of a situation, person, or thing[5]. Personal opinions, on the other hand, are based on individual perspectives, experiences, and knowledge.

2. **Spiritual Guidance**: The gift of discernment involves being open to spiritual guidance and seeking wisdom from the Holy Spirit. It requires being in constant contact with the Spirit through prayer, Bible study, and seeking wisdom from others who have the gift of discernment[2].

3. **Humility and Openness**: Those with the gift of discernment should be open to other perspectives and willing to accept correction. Personal opinions are often rooted in individual biases and may not always be open to alternative viewpoints[2].

4. **Confirmation and Recognition**: The exercise of the gift of discernment may be recognized for its effectiveness, and its accuracy may be confirmed by spiritual leaders. Personal opinions are not typically subject to such recognition or confirmation[3].

In summary, differentiating between the gift of discernment and personal opinions involves understanding the spiritual nature of the gift, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, being open to correction, and recognizing the source of the insights received. It is important to exercise this gift with humility and in accordance with biblical principles.

Citations:
[1] https://godlyfem.com/blogs/news/worldly-discernment-vs-the-gift-of-distinguishing-between-spirits
[2] https://spiritualask.com/is-discernment-a-spiritual-gift/
[3] https://www.enlivenpublishing.com/2010/08/08/8-signs-you-may-have-the-spiritual-gift-of-discernment/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/latterdaysaints/comments/uqii5z/how_to_develop_the_spirit_of_discernment/?rdt=45251
[5] https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/understanding-the-spiritual-gift-of-discernment.html 

 

 Some common mistakes people make when trying to differentiate between personal opinions and the gift of discernment include:

1. **Confusing Emotions with Discernment**: Emotions and personal biases can be mistaken for the gift of discernment. People may attribute their emotional or critical responses to discernment, when in fact, true discernment comes from the Holy Spirit and involves identifying the difference between God's voice, a demonic voice, and one's own voice[1].

2. **Misusing the Gift**: The gift of discernment is sometimes misused to criticize or tear down others, or it may be a person’s hurt or frustration masquerading as discernment. This misuse has brought disrepute to the gift of discernment[2].

3. **Neglecting Humility and Openness**: Some individuals may fail to approach the exercise of discernment with humility and openness to correction. True discernment involves being open to other perspectives and being willing to accept correction[3].

4. **Confusing Judgment with Discernment**: Judgment and discernment are often confused. Judgment comes from a reactive place and has a sense of finality, while discernment is a more personal and conscious approach, involving the cognitive ability to distinguish what is appropriate or inappropriate[4].

In summary, common mistakes in differentiating between personal opinions and the gift of discernment include confusing emotions with discernment, misusing the gift, neglecting humility and openness, and confusing judgment with discernment. It is important to approach the exercise of discernment with humility, openness, and a recognition of its spiritual nature.

Citations:
[1] https://godlyfem.com/blogs/news/worldly-discernment-vs-the-gift-of-distinguishing-between-spirits
[2] https://www.enlivenpublishing.com/2010/08/08/8-signs-you-may-have-the-spiritual-gift-of-discernment/
[3] https://spiritualask.com/is-discernment-a-spiritual-gift/
[4] https://www.awakeningself.com/writing/judgement-vs-discernment/
[5] https://www.faithbygrace.org/the-importance-of-discernment