INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. The Pentecostal’s Reprove
2. The Pentecostal’s Request
3. The Pentecostal’s Response
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today we are going to be discussing a theme: “The Pentecostal’s Conversion.” This lesson is one of several that will deal with the Acts of Conversions as seen throughout the Book of Acts. It must be understood that this book of conversions have been preserved and provided to us as our examples of New Testament Christianity. We will clearly see a “pattern of conversion” throughout these lessons. If the church of the 21st century claims to be preaching the 1st century’s doctrine; then, our message and pattern of conversion should mirror the Acts of Conversion as outlined in the Book of Acts. The notion that: “it doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as your heart is right” is not in accord with Jesus’ charge: “If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified),” John 7:37-39. See also John 5:39.
2. First, we see Peter’s preaching on the Day of Pentecost was a reproof and stern rebuke of the people. He outlines their rejection of the Christ was the will of God. And, that they had taken Him by wicked hands and crucified the Son of God. He showed in his message that Jesus was the promised Messiah, and it was through his death and resurrection He now sits and reign on David’s throne. And further, the out pouring of the Holy Ghost was sure testimony that Jesus is on the right hand of God exalted. He concludes his message by saying: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ,” Acts 2:36.
3. Secondly, Peter’s sermon resulted in the Pentecostal’s request: “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” See Acts 2:37. Apostolic preaching should convict the person of their sins, and then provide the answer of how to obtain forgiveness. We must remain focused on this point. We are discussing the Acts of Conversion in the New Testament as seen in the Book of Acts. Those seeking New Testament conversion should adhere to the instruction that Peter conveyed to these repentant believers. His response was direct and well understood by those crying: “men and brethren, what shall we do?” We would be wised to clearly and reverently hear his instructions and exhortation, if we desire to be saved, even as they.
4. Lastly, we note Peter’s instructions and the Pentecostal's response. Note Peter’s instruction to their cry: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls,” Acts 2:38-40. Let me remind you again, we are discussing what the 1st century believers were instructed to do to obtain forgiveness of their sins. Let me add, that these instructions are the beginning of a “pattern in conversions,” to be seen throughout the Book of Acts. I trust you are ready for this lesson? If so, let’s consider our first point, the Pentecostal’s Reprove.
BODY OF LESSON
I THE PENTECOSTAL’S REPROVE
A. Jesus approved of God. Peter begins his reproof of these Pentecostal attendees by stating: “Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know,” Acts 2:22.
B. Him, being delivered. “Him being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it,” Acts 2:23-24.
1. Delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God. These things were known and foreordained by the God of heaven regarding His Son. Peter declared to the people before the temple Beautiful: “Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days,” Acts 3:24.
2. Taken by wicked hands, crucified and slain.
3. Whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death.
4. Not possible He should remain in such a state.
5. Jesus betrayal, crucifixion, death, burial and resurrection were:
a. The subject of prophecy, Psalms 22:1, 16; Isaiah 53; Zechariah 12:10.
b. The subject of promise, Matthew 16:21; and
c. The subject of apostolic preaching, Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 24:44-49; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, 14-15.
C. David speaks concerning Him. Peter refers here to prophecy: “For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance,” Acts 2:25-28. See also Psalms 16:8-11. Christ has fulfilled this prophecy of David.
D. David speaks concerning the resurrection of Christ. Notice: “Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, which he is both dead and buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto this day. Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses,” Acts 2:29-32.
1. The patriarch David – both dead and buried.
2. David being a prophet - knowing God has sworn with an oath to him.
3. That of the fruit of His loins, Romans 1:2-4. See Jesus comments on this relationship, Matthew 22:41-46.
4. He would raise up Christ to sit on his throne, Luke 1:31-33.
5. He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ.
a. That his soul was not left in hell.
b. Neither his flesh did see corruption.
6. This Jesus hath God raised up - whereof we all are witnesses, Acts 1:1-8.
E. Therefore being at the right hand of God. He concludes: “Therefore, being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thy foes thy footstool. Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ,” Acts 2:33-36.
1. Christ is at the right hand of God – EXALTED. See Mark 16:19; Hebrews 10:22; 1 Peter 3:22.
2. Promise of Holy Ghost – received, Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:14-18. The Holy Spirit was not only given to the apostles on that day; but to all the baptized, repentant believers, Acts 2:38.
3. God made Jesus – both Lord and Christ, Acts 2:36; John 6:69.
a. Paul preached Him as Lord and Christ, Acts 17:2-3.
b. Apollos preached Him as Lord and Christ, Acts 18:27-28.
c. Peter emphasized that God had made Jesus both “Lord and Christ.” He is Lord of all and Messiah and Saviour for all people.
d. Therefore, we should hear Him, Matthew 17:5. And, hear from those who speak for Him. Notice our Lord: “He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me,” Luke 10:16. See also John 5:46-47. Let’s consider the Pentecostal’s Request of Peter.
II THE PENTECOSTAL’S REQUEST
A. The Pentecostal’s request. Note: “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?” See Acts 2:37.
B. They were pricked in their heart. They were touched in their hearts regarding the actions of their leaders and themselves regarding the evil that was done to the Son of God. Paul encourages us in saying: “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death,” 2 Corinthians 7:10. These repentant believers were truly grieved and troubled by their actions, “when they delivered up Jesus, and denied him in the presence of Pilot, when he was determined to let him go. But they denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto them. And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead…,” Acts 3:13-15. They now seek to correct this injustice and find favor and forgiveness from God, for killing His only-begotten Son. Notice their request.
C. And said unto Peter. They asked Peter and the rest of the apostles. Let’s notice that they address not only Peter, but the rest of the apostles regarding their request.
D. Men and brethren. They refer to them as men and brethren. This was so, as a result of their Jewish heritage. Remember on Pentecost: “There were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven,” Acts 2:5. Men from every nation and tongue, Acts 2:5-11. They were all Jewish brethren. But soon they would become, Christians. Children of God, John 1:11-12; Galatians 3:26-27. They would be heirs of God, and join-heirs with Jesus Christ. Notice Paul: “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together,” Romans 8:17. Illustrate: How to become a child of God, John 3:1-5.
E. What shall we do? Up until this time in our lesson, I’m sure there has been little to no resistance to my preaching. If there is disagreement, it will surely be forthcoming. Let me first begin by stressing, in full consideration to these Pentecostal’s request, they asked: “men and brethren what shall we do?” We will notice Peter’s response later. But for now, I want it to be clear, that God has always demanded more than just saying, “I believe.” Throughout the Book of Acts, a similar question was asked by many searchers for the truth and salvation. Notice just as:
1. These Pentecostal’s asked: “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” See Acts 2:37.
2. The believer Saul of Tarsus asked: “Lord, what will thou have me to do?” And the Lord replied:
a. “And the Lord said unto him (Saul), Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do,” Acts 9:6.
b. “And the Lord said unto me (Saul), Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do,” Acts 22:10.
c. “Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision,” Acts 26:19.
3. The angel told Cornelius “send for Peter:”
a. “He shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do,” Acts 10:5-6.
b. “Who shall tell you words, whereby thou and thy entire house shall be saved,” Acts 11:13-14.
4. The Jailer asked Paul and Silas: “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they replied: “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, with thy house,” Acts 16:30-31.
5. Jesus said: “Why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Illustrate: Luke 6:46-49.
6. Now church, visitors and friends it should be clear by now, that the searchers for truth and salvation will have something to do once they have found it. Obedience is not "works" it is "faith in action." It is this kind of faith that justifies the believer, James 2:24. Now, let’s deal with the Pentecostal’s Response to Peter’s answer. Please follow me in your bible!
III THE PENTCOSTAL’S RESPONSE
A. Peter’s answer to their request. Notice: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38.
1. Repent and be baptized. I know this phrase brings about many arguments to nullify the statement of Peter, that is: “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ.” Please note that the Greek language joins these two verbs (repent – be baptized) together by (and), a coordinating conjunction; making both acts of equally importance. Thus, the desired blessings of "the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost" are promised after the completion of both acts of faith (repent, and be baptized); when done "in the name of Jesus Christ."
2. Everyone – “in the name of Jesus.” These convicted sinners are told to “repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.” There is no other name under heaven one can call upon to be saved; except the “name of Jesus Christ,” Acts 4:10-12. Baptism is done in the “name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost,” Matthew 28:19; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:1-7.
3. For the remission of sins. Brothers and sisters, visiting friends, and inquirers of the truth, we are now going to be dealing with the real issue many religious leaders have with Peter’s instructions to these inquirers question: “men and brethren, what shall we do?”
a. First, I want to caution you all to keep before us the real question. And that is, “what shall we do,” to obtain forgiveness for crucifying the Son of God? Peter’s instruction involved two things (repentance and baptism) “for the remission of sins.”
b. Some would argue, they were already saved at the time of Peter’s instruction. However, the language does not suggest this to be true. Remember, they asked “what shall we do?” Peter is now providing the answer to their question.
c. Further, others would argue that the Greek preposition “for” or “eis” in the text preceding the phrase, “the remission of sins” really means “because.” However, in Strong’s G1519; “eis” is translated: “i.e., for, into, unto, towards, in the direction of, to obtain"; but never as “because.”
d. We find the phrase “for the remission of sins,” in another important passage in the bible, Matthew 26:28. There also the preposition “eis” is translated, “(for) the remission of sins.”
e. In some literature (Commentaries and Books) these teachers and preachers will improperly suggest that “because” in a similar verse means the same thing in our text under discussion, Acts 2:28. The problem however, is this word in the Greek translated “because” is not “peri,” as in Strong’s G4012, or “eis” as in Strong’s G1519. Let’s move this forward a little more.
1) Here is one of their scripture texts in question. Here, after Jesus heals a leper: “saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for (peri) thy cleansing (they insert – because of thy cleansing) those things which Moses commanded, for (eis) a testimony unto them,” Mark 1:44. Here is the problem with this insertion.
2) The two Greek words found in Mark 1:44 are “peri” and “eis.” They are place next to the words in the text where they are found in the verse. Note, “peri” is translated “for thy cleansing.” And “eis” is also translated, “for a testimony.” Neither of these words are translated “because” in this text.
3) The Greek word that is translated “because,” is “hoti” as in Strong’s G3754 in the New Testament. Notice its use in this verse: “And he (Christ) healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, (hoti) because they knew him,” Mark 1:34.
4) It is true that “hoti” is translated as “because.” However, “eis” is not translated as “because” in either of the scriptures under discussion in this lesson. There must be integrity in preaching and teaching as it pertains to the correct translation of the Greek language. See Strong's Dictionary of the Greek New Testament. The parentheses (--) and Greek words inserted in the text, are mine for emphasis only.
5) In summary: “Because” or “hoti” looks backward; while “for” or “eis” looks forward to a desired action or blessing not yet received. Here is another one of their reference verses: “The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgement with this generation, and shall condemn it: because (hoti) they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and behold, a greater than Jonas is here,” Matthew 12:41. Here again, the Greek word is “hoti” or “because;” and not “eis” or “for;” as it is in the case of Peter’s preaching in Acts 2:38.
6) Therefore, the blood of Christ was not shed “hoti” “because of remission;” but “eis” “for the remission of sins;” and baptism is not “hoti” “because of remission;” but “eis” “for the remission of sins.” The argument of “because” is used widely by many afraid of the truth of Peter’s answer to those asking “men and brethren what must we do?” In order to obtain, the forgiveness of their sins, Acts 2:37.
7) Peter's answer was for them to: “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ "eis" for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38.
8) If you desire the forgiveness of your sins, you will have to do likewise. “The word of God is right, and all of His works are done in truth,” Psalms 33:4.
4. Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. God has promised his Spirit after our obedience, Acts 5:32; Ephesians 1:13-14. If we have not the Spirit of Christ, “we are none of His,” Romans 8:9.
B. The promise to them and their children. “For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call,” Acts 2:39.
1. Promise is unto you, and your children. Salvation, promised to the entire Jewish nation, Romans 1:14-17. Jew first and also the Greek, are part of the promise of Christ and the gospel, Ephesians 3:1-7.
2. To all that are afar off. Salvation promised to the entire Gentile world. This promise was first spoken of by Peter on the Day of Pentecost. Peter’s preaching to the house of Cornelius (first uncircumcised Gentile) some 10-11 years after Pentecost. The fulfillment of the promise of Christ, John 10:16.
3. Even as many as the Lord our God shall call. The call to salvation is for all. “And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely,” Revelation 22:17. Recall, Jesus: “If any man thirst let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me as the scripture hath said…, (But this spake he of the Spirit…because Jesus was not yet glorified), John 7:37-39.
C. Peter’s persuasion. Preaching should also include sincere persuasion. Peter concluded his invitation with an appeal to obey. Hear him: “And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation,” Acts 2:40. Notice:
1. With many other words. Peter reasoned with them with heart felt words to do something about their condition.
2. He testifies and exhort. He gave testimony and exhortation.
3. Saying, save yourselves. He encouraged the audience to save themselves.
4. From this untoward generation. Save yourself from this wicked and perverse world. Allow God to forgive you for this grievous sin against His “only-begotten Son,” John 1:14; John 3:14-17.
5. Simply stated: when it comes to it – the only person you can take steps to “save is yourself.” Family, friends, husband or wife, must take the same steps to save themselves. If you have concern for others, (and I believe you do); first save yourself and be an example of faithfulness before God, and allow Him to help you gain those that will hear you and turn to Christ.
6. Notice Paul on the important fact. “But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart…For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? Or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife? But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all the churches,” 1 Corinthians 7:15-17. Illustrate: Broken and Battered Wife.
D. The Pentecostal’s response. Their response was: “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls,” Acts 2:41. Notice if you would beloved:
1. They that gladly received his word. I want you to note that at first, “they were pricked to the hearts.” They experienced tremendous guilt for their betrayal and the death of Christ. But Peter’s testimony and exhortation changed these guilt stricken hearts, into hearts of gladness – which enable them to receive his word with joy.
2. They were baptized – the same day. Peter pointed out its importance during his testifying and exhortation. They were made to understand its importance in their salvation, and the need to respond immediately. This will be the case throughout the Book of Acts, when someone responds to the gospel of Christ through preaching and teaching. This is the beginning of the “pattern of conversion” as, outlined in the Acts of Conversion.
3. There were added unto them. First three thousand; and later five thousand were added to their number. Let’s be clear here, it will be the Lord that adds them to the church. There was not vote; no letter of recommendation; no telling of Christian experience.
E. The Lord added to the church. “Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved,” Acts 2:47. These new converts formed the first members in the body of Christ; the church of Christ, in the city of Jerusalem. Here are some of the things this church was committed unto:
1. They continued steadfastly. “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers, and fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles,” Acts 2:42-43.
2. They had all things in common. “And all that believed were together, and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need,” Acts 2:44-45. They shared their possession with others; so much so, that no one was without daily necessities, Acts 4:32, Acts 4:34-37. Illustrate: Barnabas Gift to the Apostles.
3. They continued in one accord. “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,” Acts 2:46. As we begin to conclude this lesson, let me briefly review what we presented.
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. The Pentecostal’s Reprove
2. The Pentecostal’s Request
3. The Pentecostal’s Response
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we seen Peter’s preaching on the Day of Pentecost was a reproof and stern rebuke of the people. He outlined their rejection of the Christ was the will of God. And, that they had taken Him by wicked hands and crucified the Son of God. He showed in his message that Jesus was the promised Messiah, and it was through his death and resurrection He now sits and reign on David’s throne. And further, the out pouring of the Holy Ghost was sure testimony that Jesus was on the right hand of God exalted. He concluded his message by saying: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ,” Acts 2:36.
2. Secondly, we noted that Peter’s sermon resulted in the Pentecostal’s request: “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” See Acts 2:37. Apostolic preaching should convict the person of their sins, and then provide the answer of how to obtain forgiveness. We remained focused on this point. We discussed the Acts of Conversion in the New Testament as seen in the Book of Acts. Those seeking New Testament conversion must adhere to the instruction that Peter conveyed to these repentant believers. His response was direct and well understood by those crying: “men and brethren, what shall we do?” We would be wised to clearly and reverently hear his instructions and exhortation, if we desire to be saved like these on Pentecost.
3. Lastly, we noted Peter’s instructions and the people’s response. Peter instructed them to: “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost....Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls,” Acts 2:38-40. Let me remind you again, we discussed what the 1st century believers were instructed to do to obtain forgiveness of their sins. Let me add again, that these instructions are the beginning of a “pattern in conversions,” to be seen throughout the Book of Acts. I trust you have followed me throughout this lesson?
C. Review the invitation of Jesus as presented by Peter on the Day of Pentecost. Let me remind you of what instruction the apostle Peter provided to these repentant believers: “repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38. If the questions is the same; then, the answer must also be the same. We have seen our first “pattern” of New Testament conversions, as outlined in the Book of Acts. I thank you for your patience.
D. Exhortation. I now entreat as Peter, “with many other words do I testify and exhort, saying, save yourselves from this untoward generation,” Acts 2:40. Don't let this opportunity pass you, without responding to the love of Christ! He is able to forgive your sins, He is calling you today in the same fashion as He called the believers on Pentecost.
E. Motivation and persuade. ‘Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men,” 2 Corinthians 5:11.
