Acts 2:38-39 – And Peter said to them, “Repent and 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. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone who the lord calls to himself.”
Observation –
Peter has just finished preaching his first sermon at Pentecost and the people’s heart are moved as they ask what to do. Peter answers the question with the first words of Jesus ministry repent of your sins. Be baptized in the name of Jesus to receive the Holy Spirit and be born again. The gospel that Peter proclaimed at Pentecost is for everyone. No one is too far off geographically or spiritually to be reached by the gospel.
Application –
Jesus was crucified dead and buried for our sins, and resurrected to overcome death as our living Lord and savior. The call from the first sermon preached is the same gospel message 2000 years later and demands the same response that I must remember daily. Repent and turn from my sin, place my faith in Jesus be baptized in his name as a public affirmation and receive the Holy Spirit. Submit humbly to Jesus and allow the Spirit to work in my life to share the gospel. I must do all things in love and have a Great Commission focus to make disciples of all, baptizing and teaching to obey Jesus’ commands. The gospel is the greatest news in a world that desperately needs hope. No one is ever too far gone to be changed by the love of Jesus.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit! Let me be repentant of my sin, have the Spirit give me boldness to proclaim your gospel and make disciples to honor you.