Acts 2:22-41
Reflect
Acts 2:14-40 is Peter’s first sermon on the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem. Jesus had ascended 40 days after His crucifixion and the day of Pentecost was 10 days after His ascension. Many Jews were in Jerusalem to celebrate Passover and the Feast of Weeks (a festival of thanksgiving for the harvested crops). Among them were Jews that had previously been dispersed to other countries. Throughout this passage, Peter is quoting Scripture prophesied in the Old Testament, confirming what has happened with Jesus’ death, resurrection, ascension and the Holy Spirit being sent. These listeners would have known the prophesies of the Old Testament. They already knew about Jesus, His life and miraculous works and had just witnessed the presence and power of the Holy Spirit on that day of Pentecost. About 3,000 people would become new believers through Peter’s sermon. Some of the dispersed Jews who responded to Peter’s message returned to their homelands with God’s Good News of salvation, thus spreading the gospel. This sermon was made by Peter, the one most of us identify with when we read about his mistakes. Have you ever felt as if you’ve made such bad mistakes that God could never forgive and use you? No matter what sins you have committed, God promises that if you confess and repent, He will forgive you and use you effectively to serve Him. No sin is ever too great for His love. Beloved, this Easter may you know how great the Father’s love for you is because He sent His son to die for you and me. He loves you as much as He loves His Son, Jesus (John 15:9).
Karen Alksne
Pray
- Pray for our Church Board members: Barbara Whidden, Cam Klapstein, Darryl Sparling, Gerhard Hiob, Hal Reirson, JD Kleiwer, Matt Chute, Seth Jansen, and Tyler Elmgren.
- Pray for our Senior Lead Team Pastor, Lyle Buyer, his family and his ministry.