READ GENESIS 11
In Genesis 11, the story depicts humanity rebelling against God's command in Genesis 9:7 to "be fruitful and multiply on the earth." The people of the earth defy God by choosing to stay together in one place and try to establish a reputation for themselves, seeking to avoid being dispersed across the earth. As a consequence of their disobedience, God confuses their language (the Hebrew word 'balal' means confusion, which gives rise to the name Babel) and scatters them throughout the world.
Throughout history, humans have strived to make a name for themselves. We often focus on how others perceive us when entering a room or working, not for the glory of the Lord but for our own fame. Instead, we should live not for our own reputation but for the name that is above all names, Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:9).
In Acts 2, the Holy Spirit descends on the apostles, enabling them to speak in different languages. During the Pentecost Festival, Jews from various regions gathered in Jerusalem, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter delivered the inaugural sermon of the Church. This event contrasts with the Babel story, as God brings people of different nations together and grants them mutual understanding to receive the Gospel of hope, truth, and love. Peter's words in Acts 2:37 deeply affected the audience, leading them to ask how they should respond, to which Peter instructed them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).
The genealogy at the conclusion of this chapter marks a transition from universal to national history, introducing the patriarch Abram into the story.
QUESTIONS
1. How do you strive to establish your reputation?
2. What can you do in your daily life to bring glory to God's name?
3. Compare the themes in Acts 2 to those in Genesis 11. What similarities and differences do you notice?