Overview
The Parthians were inhabitants of the Parthian Empire, a powerful kingdom east of the Roman Empire that stretched across modern-day Iran and surrounding regions. At Pentecost, Parthian Jews and converts were among the international audience who heard the apostles speak in tongues and received Peter's proclamation of the risen Christ. This demonstrates the global reach of God's plan to spread the gospel to all nations.
Key Scriptures
"Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God." (Acts 2:9-11, ESV)
Application
The inclusion of Parthians at Pentecost reminds us that the gospel's power transcends political boundaries and reaches people from every nation and background who seek God's truth.