The Conviction of the Gospel
Acts 2:37-41
37 Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
38 Peter replied, “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. 39 This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” 40 Then Peter continued preaching for a long time, strongly urging all his listeners, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!”
41 Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all.
Peter, emboldened by the Holy Spirit, preached a powerful message to his people about Jesus. During his message, Peter accused his people of crucifying the Lord. At this, the people’s hearts were deeply stirred, and they were compelled to respond, asking “What shall we do?”
Peter’s response was straightforward: “Repent and be baptised.” He converted about three thousand people after that sermon who most likely went on to share the gospel to countless others.
I remember when I first realised the good news – truly realised what it meant. That piercing of the heart can turn one to mush on the inside and want to throw their old life away without hesitation and embrace God’s love.
My prayer is that all people, like those early believers, may respond wholeheartedly to the gospel; embracing God’s forgiveness, receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit, and joining in the fulfilling mission of spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ to all who would hear it!
Dear Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your boundless love and power. We thank You for the forgiveness You show and the power of Your word to soften our hearts. Help us to boldly share Your Good News with those around us.
In Your loving name, Jesus. Amen
Written by Sven Bessesen