Peter’s sermon continues here as he tries to help the people listening catch up and understand the great opportunity they had been given. They were living in the days shortly following Jesus’ resurrection, an event that changed history forever. Can you imagine being one of the ones who witnessed Jesus’ return from the grave? Reading about it is great, but having witnessed it happening in real time would have been crazy!
Peter’s words “pierced their hearts” into action. The people were hungry and asked what they could do. How many times have you been so moved by a sermon? Peter’s response to those seeking more of Jesus was to repent and be baptized. If they choose to do that, they will receive the Holy Spirit.
That promise wasn’t limited to that day only. Peter clarified, “This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” Can you imagine 3,000 people being converted into Christ followers all in one day after one passionate sermon? Seeing how God moves in the hearts of his people never gets old.
But what happens to new believers? We see many people today getting saved during a worship concert, a revival, a church service, or even during a traumatic life event. Who is standing by to support those people? How do they get connected to a community of other believers? Local churches need to be constantly ready for an influx of believers. How do you personally support new believers?
What made sense for me was to publish a devotional book designed specifically for new believers. They’ll be taken by the hand through some key Bible texts to feed and sustain them by spending time in God’s Word. That book will be published later this summer.
The new believers in the apostle’s time established a great model for us as the early church. They spent time together, ate together, shared Holy Communion to remember Jesus, and shared everything they had. Do you belong to any communities like that? The church has changed a lot over the centuries. We see some of the same elements, but I fear the expectant awe of these early followers has dimmed over time.
What can we do in our own circles to ignite the passion for Jesus? If we continue to minister and witness to others about how Jesus has changed our life, that’s a good place to start. It’s not our job to “clean up” the people to be ready for Jesus. Jesus does that part. Let’s praise the Lord together and celebrate all he has done.
Let’s pray. It’s always good to remember how your church began, Lord. So many people heard the good news, and you stirred in their hearts. I know you continue to move among us, but the world wants to keep you silent. Forgive me for not being bold like Peter. I know you are using me in other ways. Continue to guide my feet and keep me safe from evil. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
