I wonder what it would have been like to hear twelve seemingly-uneducated men speaking my language (and dozens of others) in the middle of the crowded square. The people who were listening realized that they were Galileans (which instantly meant they were from the boondocks and were nothing more than backwoods hicks!) What would I have thought? How would I have reacted? What would I think about this sight?
The story we find in Acts 2 is the story of the very beginning of the Church. The apostles, filled with the Holy Spirit, begin to proclaim the Good News in languages they had never studied before! Jews and God-fearers from throughout the Roman Empire were assembled in Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost and they were amazed at what they heard.
As Peter begins to preach to the people, he does say what we think he should say. Peter isn't very PC and he quotes a LOT of scripture. And we find through his simple presentation of the Gospel that three thousand people came to faith in Jesus Christ.
As Peter proclaimed the Good News, the people's hearts were touched and they wondered how they could be saved. Peter's response is this:
"Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
What an amazing story. From the humblest of beginnings the new church grew into an international movement within one generation.
What stands out to you from this chapter?
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What stood out the most to me was in verses 25-28 when Peter quoted David. Mostly verse verse 28 "You have made known to me the ways of life; you will make me full of gladness with your presence."
ReplyDeleteWhen I read that verse, I cannot help but be happy. It is verses like this that I should read on the not-so-great days so I can say, "Why am I sad? Jesus loves ME!" :)
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ReplyDeleteAmen to that! I really like the idea that God will fill us with his gladness.
ReplyDeleteIt reminds me of the song "Sing and Be Happy!"
If the skies above you are gray, you are feeling so blue.
If your cares and burdens seem great all the whole day through.
There's a silver lining that shines in that heavenly land.
Look by faith and see it, my friend; trust in his promises grand.
(Chorus)
(Ya gotta) Sing and you'll be happy today, press along to the goal.
Trust in him who leadeth the way, he will keep your soul.
Let the world know where you belong, look to Jesus and pray.
Lift your voice and praise him in song, sing and be happy today.
It's amazing that God can give us joy in the most difficult times. Thanks for your insight!
The thing that most stood out to me was that people actually could believe that wine and/or drunkenness could cause such a drastic change in the behavior and speech of individuals.
ReplyDeleteWhere do you hear about 3,000 people being baptized now a days. That doesn't happen. What an amazing act of God! It is truly an act of God to have 3,000 hearts be opened to him in such a short time.
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