The answer is: 3000

Acts 2:41

Pentecost is a game-changer in the Christian narrative. It's not just a moment of miraculous wonders; it’s where the seed of the early church was sown abundantly! Imagine this scene in the bustling streets of Jerusalem: after a powerful speech from Peter, inspired by what many attribute as the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, a whopping 3,000 people committed to a new hope by being baptized. Now that's a crowd!

That number isn't random; it resonates deeply with the Jewish harvest festival celebrated at Pentecost. Just as Jewish tradition celebrated the harvest, here we witness a spiritual harvest – a delicious irony if you consider it! Speaking of traditions, how fascinating is it that the word "Pentecost" actually comes from the Greek for "fiftieth"? It falls fifty days after Passover, hinting at its deep cultural and religious ties.

Another cool tidbit is the way this event echoes back to Old Testament themes: like how Moses received the law on Mount Sinai, the giving of the Spirit to the early followers become a new kind of law, encouraging authentic community and radical love among believers.

So, when we think about the weight of Pentecost, let’s not forget that it’s not just about numbers; it was about a paradigm shift, a call to embrace a larger narrative – a call extended to all who seek meaning, inspiration, and ultimately, connection.