“And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.”
Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven — the diaspora gathering at Jerusalem for Pentecost represents the Jewish dispersal (diaspora, dispersion) across the Mediterranean world after the Exile. These God-fearers are pious, Torah-observant Jews maintaining connection to temple worship. Their presence is not accidental; the Spirit is already preparing witnesses who will carry the gospel back to their homelands.
Church Fathers on Acts 2:5
And, it says, there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men. Acts 2:5 The fact of their dwelling there was a sign of piety: that being of so many nations they should have left country, and home, and relations, and be abiding there. For, it says, There were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was reported abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded. Acts 2:6 Since the event had taken place in a house, of…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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