Acts 2
-The Holy Spirit’s coming to indwell believers as Jesus had
promised is fulfilled on the day of Pentecost as the believers were in the
upper room in Jerusalem (John 14:16-26; 15:26; 16:7-8). This is the Spirit of
Truth and Conviction that draws the whole world to the saving knowledge of
Jesus Christ and gives believers the power over the enemy filling them with His
fruits (Romans 15:13, Galatians 5:18-26). *Application* This same Holy Spirit
is available to us as we receive the gift of Him at the point of trusting in
Jesus Christ to save us. He wants complete control of our lives to do His will.
We can grieve or quench Him, but never lose Him (Ephesians 4:30, 1
Thessalonians 5:19). Have you received the gift and gifts of the Holy Spirit
(Romans 12:4-8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11)? Have you been baptized (immersed, totally
controlled and consumed) by this awesome fullness of God (Matthew 3:11, Mark 1:8,
Luke 2:16, Acts 1:5; 2:38)? This is the key to eternal and triumphant living.
-The amazing and miraculous events of Pentecost draw a huge
international crowd during this common Jewish festival in which many attended
in Jerusalem. Peter is able to stand and declare the fulfillment of prophecies
and the gospel of Jesus Christ. The response was incredible. When the message
was heard along with these miraculous demonstrations, they questioned the
apostles about what they should do to be saved. The apostles’ response was to
repent and be baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins.
Then they also would receive this gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is for
them, their children, and all those far off into the future (Acts 2:39). The
church age had begun and the ingathering of all the nations to the Lord
(Genesis 18:18, Psalm 22:27, Matthew 28:19, and many more).
-The early church had all things in common. They were
continually devoting themselves to prayer and the apostles’ teaching. There was
a sense of awe and many signs and wonders were taking place through the
apostles. God’s power was definitely on them. They had one mind, the mind of
Christ, and there was sweet communion, provision, and fellowship with each
other. The Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being
saved. *Application* There is no reason why this can’t be the case in the
church today. We can be of the same mind only if we all are obedient and
conform to the image of Christ (Philippians 2). Our hearts need to be generous and
in total worship as we abide in His presence together as the Body of Christ (Romans
12:5, Colossians 3:12-17). This is the kind of church God wants and uses as He leads
and directs without interference.
Verses to Memorize:
Acts 2:32-33, 39
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