Good morning,
The resurrection has taken place. Jesus has walked among men for forty days and has ascended back to heaven. Matthias has been chosen to replace Judas.
So what happens next?
Next to the birth, ministry, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, the most significant event is the baptism and indwelling all believers with the Holy Spirit. Not only did it change the lives of the apostles and disciples, but literally change all of mankind forever.
This week we will look at Acts 2, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, Peter’s sermon at Pentecost, the result of that sermon, and what happens next.
Believers continue united (2:41-47)
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,47 Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
The result of Peter’s preaching and the Holy Spirit’s conviction was three thousand people saved. After they received the word, salvation, they publicly identified with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, through baptism.
These new believers then sat under the feet of the apostles and disciples and learned more about Christ. They learned, prayed, and fellowshipped together. They witnessed and God increased the church daily.
This group of believers had a balanced approach to life. Study, prayer, worship, exhortation, and fellowship. They boldly took what they were learning to the streets so others would have the opportunity to receive Christ.
God did the work of convicting sinners.
God wants us to go. We do not see souls saved because we never tell anyone about Jesus Christ.
Tell someone today!
THINGS WE LEARNED
The baptism of the Holy Spirit was initially for the communication of the gospel
It changed the disciple’s lives from timid to bold
Three thousand souls were saved
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001
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