The Day of Pentecost was a Jewish feast observed in Jerusalem fifty days after the celebration of the Passover, which commemorated Israel's deliverance out of Egypt. It is significant that the Lord chose this day to begin the fulfillment of Joel 2:28: "I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh."

The Spirit came upon the waiting, praying disciples in an overwhelming manner. Their complete commitment to Christ and His commission evoked a mighty baptism of God's power. This was evidenced initially by their speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4). The Spirit was resident in their lives from that moment. The Spirit-filled early church witnessed many outstanding miraculous happenings (Acts 3:1-7; 4:31). They were able to lead victorious lives as a result of their Pentecostal experience.

Two baptisms occurred on the Day of Pentecost. There was a baptism in the Holy Spirit, and in the message that followed, the apostle Peter commanded water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38). The outward, physical baptism of water merges with that of the Spirit, and together they become the "one baptism" of Ephesians 4:5. This experience is what Jesus referred to as being "born again" in John 3:3-7. And how wonderful to be born into the family of God - changed, transformed, and made a new creation in Christ Jesus!

No, Pentecost is not a denomination. It is a new birth experience. It is original Christianity made relevant to today's world. The people called Pentecostal simply believe, teach, and receive all that transpired on the birthday of the church...