The Gospel From Peter
Thursday, August 15
Acts 2:37-38 (NKJV)
“Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Devoción
Jesus had already been crucified. Three days later, he rose and appeared to his disciples. Before Jesus ascended to Heaven, he promised the coming of the Holy Spirit. Then, on the Day of Pentecost, there came a mighty rushing wind. Suddenly, the Church was filled with the Holy Spirit. Peter then boldly stood up and preached a sermon with a simple message of salvation that is still applicable today: repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit. There are two meaningful lessons here:
First, the Church must boldly stand up. If the Church doesn’t stand up and speak the truth, who will? It’s time to stand up like Peter. Pastor Jentezen noted that 86% of those in the Church started attending because of their friends or family. Whether you feel it or not, you are exceedingly influential. Who in your family or friends needs to hear the Gospel? It’s time to boldly stand up!
Second, the message of the Gospel is simple and everlasting. The Church cannot allow the message of the Gospel to become diluted or overcomplicated. It must stick to the simple truth. Salvation depends on it. Led by the Spirit, Peter, who was a fisherman, not a professional speaker, boldly stood up and spoke the truth of the Gospel in simple terms. The Blood of Jesus saves and the Holy Spirit is available to anyone that will turn from sin, repent, and receive Jesus. You must be born again. Repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit!
Oración de hoy
Querido Padre Celestial,
I confess I have not always been about my father's business. I have chased after many things other than following Jesus and making disciples for Jesus. Thank You that by Your grace, I can turn things around today. Will You help me? Show me how to make best use of the evangelism opportunities around me. Help me not to be afraid. Show me which Bible verses to memorize next that will be most useful. Give me the gift of prophecy as the right Bible verse at the right time to cut to the heart of my audience. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Aplíquelo hoy mismo
Do you wonder why baptism is an important part of responding to Jesus? Recognize that Jesus commanded it, so it is a step of obedience. Jesus also demonstrated it by being baptized himself. It is a public statement of repentance and faith. It is a pledge of a good conscience toward God. Specific deliverance can happen at baptism. Specific blessings can happen at baptism. Consider whether baptism is something you need to do. Include it when you share the Gospel with others.
Recursos
- As you consider baptism, watch this message, “Take A Leap”, and let it encourage you to take the bold step.
- The first step to participating in baptism at Free Chapel is Next Steps. Sign up today.