God’s Strengthening Word: Being Renewed by the Holy SpiritNäide

Introduction

Acts 2:29–47: Peter continues his speech, speaking about Jesus as the promised Messiah and placing Jesus in the line of King David. He invites the people to be baptized, and three thousand new believers are baptized in one day. The early church gathers each day for prayer and fellowship.

Today’s Key Verse: Acts 2:38

Peter said to them, “Each one of you must turn away from your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven, and you will receive God’s gift, the Holy Spirit.”

Reflect

How do people react to Peter’s message (verse 37)? What does Peter tell them (verses 38–39)? What is the promise he speaks of? What does that promise mean to you? How is life among the believers described in verses 42–47? What four things do they do together? How would you describe life among those who are members of your community of faith?

Pray

I thank you, Lord God, for the gift of your Holy Spirit and for your promise of forgiveness in Jesus’s name. By raising Jesus from death, you have freed me from the power of sin and death and shown me the path that leads to eternal life. Bind all believers in close fellowship to worship and serve you. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Acts 3:1–10: The apostle Peter heals a lame beggar.