THE BOOK OF ACTS - LESSON #6
“The Forgotten Word of Pentecost”
Acts 3:12-26
Vs. 12 - Peter becomes aware of the people’s concern and bewilderment. He
is quick to explain that something greater than himself made this man walk.
He is quick to point out that this has not happened because of Peter and John’s own power or holiness.
Vs. 13 - Peter touches on the scripture that is familiar to the Jews. He astonishes them by using Old Testament characters, such as Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. These three were revered and respected by the Jews. Peter connects these three with Jesus.
Vs. 14 - They chose to have a thief among them instead of Jesus.
(John 18:40)
Vs. 15 - This is the first time in scripture that Jesus is called the “Prince of Life.” It literally means the author of eternal life. Peter also tells them of their guilt concerning Jesus.
Vs. 16 - This miracle is a result of trust in the name of Jesus Christ. The word trust means to rely upon.
Vs. 17 - They had no idea what they were doing.
Vs. 18 - The Old Testament writers predicted that this would happen. These things have all come true.
Vs. 19 - “Repent” is the forgotten word of Pentecost. We have in our society today and in the church world an easy believeism. This doctrine puts a patch over problems but never solves them. It is a form of “social and motivational gospel”. The power of the Holy Ghost is the only way to change men’s hearts. The first word of salvation is “repent”. This is the same word Peter uses in Acts :38. “Blotted out” means to erase forever. This covers all manner of sins. The refreshing referred to is “an assurance of a home in heaven when you leave this life”.
Vs. 20 - Old Testament prophecies revealed that Jesus Christ would come.
Duet. 30 - 1-3: Zechariah 12:10-14
Vs. 21 - Jesus is in heaven and will return at the time of restitutions of Israel.
Vs. 22 - Peter points them to one of their own prophets - Moses. Jesus met all the requirements of a true prophet. His message was harmonious with the Word of God, He being the Word, himself. John l; Duet. 13:1; Luke 24:19.
I Cor. 12:10 - A gift that enables one to speak edification, exhortation and comfort.
Vs. 23 - 24 - Jesus told them of these days. Moses and Samuel also spoke of them.
Vs. 25 - God Made a covenant with Abraham that Israel would be a blessing to all nations.
Vs. 26 - To the Jew first - Jesus was sent to bless you. The condition is to turn from your iniquities. The statement “his iniquities” explains that God himself identified with their sins just as if they were his own. The Greek word for iniquity is “poneria”. It means wickedness. Jesus bore our sins on the Cross when he died for all.
