Acts 2:14-41 – The Church is Born

Read Acts 2:14-41

Peter takes advantage of this huge audience. Actually, you might say the Holy Spirit took over. Peter spoke with authority. People listened. We hear that 3,000 people were baptized and added to the church that day. The words and truths Peter shared would have shaken the people’s understanding of faith.

Have you ever heard something that just rocked your world? Perhaps, you’ve been in church and felt like the pastor was speaking only to you. I had an experience like that this last week. I had been working through some issues bothering me after running away from a problem. The sermon was about running away from a situation or being so caught up in a problem that you couldn’t see the answer was right in front of you. Maybe like those followers who didn’t recognize Jesus at first when he came back from the dead.

So did Peter’s words rock your world today?

I particularly liked the statement, “But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved?” Everyone. That means you and me, if we are calling on the name of the Lord. What does it mean to you to “call on the name of the Lord?” For me, that is exactly how I want to start each day–calling out, praying, having conversation with God, relying on him for my provision. 

Is it hard for you to rely on a God you cannot see? Peter reminds us of David’s words, “I see that the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.” I don’t know about you, but I often picture Jesus standing beside me, walking along with me and definitely watching out for me. Troubles will and do come, but they are easier to walk through knowing Jesus is right beside us. It’s when I take my eyes off of him that I stumble.

I loved in the reading today where it says Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they asked how should they respond. We need to be moved by what Jesus has done so our hearts are burning to respond. Our lives can be so much richer if we only step out of the way. As Peter said, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

It is never too late to call on God. He has been waiting our whole life. His forgiveness is real. What sin are you holding on to believing it is too big for God, too embarrassing, too unforgivable? Give it to God. Now.

Let’s pray. Father God, I know the power of the Spirit in my life and cherish every moment you use me. May I get out of my own way and let you get to work in me. I am feeling so invigorated by you today and am grateful. I know there is so much hurt, heartache, evil, challenge, sickness, loneliness, and disillusionment in the world. My hearts breaks with yours. Use me as your agent to mend the broken and uplift those looking for you. Surround me with the people you want me to help. Prepare their hearts and mine.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.