Acts 2:14a, 36-41
Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd:
“Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”
When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, everyone of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off–for all whom the Lord our God will call.”
With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number.
A Thought
Jesus the Christ has been resurrected from the dead, appeared to his disciples and others, and on the day of Pentacost, Peter and others have now been filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter, Jesus’ disciple who denied Christ three times, has now become an apostle speaking boldly to the people of Israel. Peter made sure there was no question that the man that they had cried out to be crucified was their long awaited, promised Messiah and they are guilty of having him put to death. Cut to their heart, they asked Peter what can they do. Peter replies that they must repent and be baptized for forgiveness of their sins and the Holy Spirit will also be given to them. This promise was given to all in whom the Lord will call including us today. About three thousand were saved from the corruption of their generation. Will you repent of your sins to receive forgiveness and will you be baptized? If you will, the Holy Spirit will come and live within you and teach you the truth of God’s word. This is our only hope to be delivered from this corrupt generation. This is the love that God has for each of us–the gift of his Son, Jesus the Christ.
Our Prayer
Father thank you for my forgiveness of sins and your Holy Spirit which lives within me. Help me to be bold and tell others about your great love for them and the cost Jesus has paid for each of us to be in relationship with you. We all must repent to receive your Holy Spirit who will teach us how to live a godly life. Awaken us, send revival, and heal our land we ask in Jesus’ name, amen.
