Acts 2: Pentecost and the Mighty Works of God

re-posted from Pr. Stout

(47 verses, 6:04 to read)

What I am about to READ

With many Jews gathered in Jerusalem for the festival of Pentecost, the promised Holy Spirit is received from Jesus. As Jesus had promised in John (14-16), the Holy Spirit would bear witness to Christ through the disciples.

MARK & LEARN

The sermons that all the people were hearing in their own language and the sermon that Peter preached to both those who believed and those who mocked can be summarized by the phrase “mighty works of God.” The reading adds more specificity to this in Peter’s sermon by focusing these mighty works of God in “Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst.” This Jesus was crucified but it was impossible for death to hold Him. He is Lord and Christ – even over death.
As the Word is heard, there are two different responses: mocking and faith. We can expect these two responses as the Holy Spirit works through His Word today, as well.
The Law will cut us to the heart and lead us to ask, “What shall we do?” The Gospel points to the mighty works of God and calls us to receive in faith those works which were done and continue to be done for us.
Notice that it is the Lord who added to the number of those who believed the Word. Included in these mighty works of God is the work of faith in His Christians. The Holy Spirit works, strengthens, and preserves faith through baptism (vs. 38-41), the apostles teaching (the Lord’s Word), the breaking of bread (the Lord’s Supper), fellowship, and the prayers as He gathers them together to receive His gifts (vs. 42-47).
Lot’s of important teachings in this chapter. Any thoughts or questions would be very welcome!

MEDITATE

Gracious Lord, grant us Your Holy Spirit again as we hear Your Word. May He focus us to Your mighty works and away from our pitiful works. When we come far off and removed from You in our sin and shame, may He gather us and bring us security, hope, and gladness in Your presence.

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Pastor Christopher Stout

Rightly Divided