Men of Israel, hear these words! Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved by God to you by mighty works and wonders and signs which God did by him among you, even as you yourselves know Acts 2:22 WEB
In the previous chapter of Acts, the disciples select Mathias to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve founding disciples and apostles of Christ. The disciples chose him because he experienced the entirety of Jesus ministry, his resurrection, and the Lord’s ascension into heaven. As the twelve gather together for Pentecost in Jerusalem, the Galileans receive the Holy Spirit. Additionally, they speak in languages foreign to their own.
Jews and men converted to Judaism from numerous nations were in attendance at the time. Many of these foreign men were astonished to hear men from Galilee speaking in their native tongues. Others made fun of the Galileans remarking that they must be drunk. This event marks the beginning of the mighty works and wonders of the apostles that mirrored the mighty works, wonders, and signs performed by Jesus Christ.
Giving Witness to Christ
Responding to the reactions of the crowd, Peter arose and spoke to the congregation. His response comes by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Moreover, it is in accordance with prophetic words the Lord gave before his ascension.Acts 1:8 records Christ’s revelation of this event as Jesus says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth. WEB”
What follows is the first sermon given by one of Jesus’ apostles. Peter speaks to the learned Jews, testifying to Christ’s fulfillment of biblical prophecy. In addition, he reminds the crowd of the mighty works and wonders and signs God performed through Christ while he was with them. Peter preaches the Lord Jesus crucified and resurrected as proof that he is the Messiah promised to the Jewish people by God. Peter concludes his message with a call for all men to repent and receive baptism in the name of Jesus for forgiveness of sin.
Prayer: ‘Father God, thank you for the faithful witnesses that reach the truth of the gospel of my Lord and Savior. Thank you for forgiving my sins. Give me strength and wisdom to share your love with the world. Help me to live a productive life of service to you and your will. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: We Have a Counselor
