How can Acts 2:15 inspire confidence in sharing our faith today? Verse in Focus “For these men are not drunk, as you suppose. It is only the third hour of the day!” (Acts 2:15) What Was Happening • The disciples had just been filled with the Holy Spirit, speaking in languages they had never learned (Acts 2:4). • Onlookers mocked, accusing them of being drunk (Acts 2:13). • Peter stood up, addressed the crowd, and immediately corrected the false charge—confidently, clearly, and publicly. Why This Sparks Confidence for Us • Facts over feelings: Peter relied on observable truth—9 a.m. was no time for drunkenness—to dismantle the accusation. We can likewise trust the objective truth of Scripture and reality when objections arise. • Spirit-empowered clarity: Peter’s boldness flowed from the Holy Spirit just received (Acts 1:8). That same Spirit indwells believers today, providing courage and words (Luke 12:11-12). • Prophetic grounding: After verse 15 Peter pointed to Joel’s prophecy (Acts 2:16-21). Sharing faith isn’t personal opinion; it rests on God’s unbreakable Word (Isaiah 55:11). • Immediate effectiveness: Peter’s defense opened the door for the gospel, leading to about three thousand conversions (Acts 2:41). When we speak up, God can work powerfully beyond what we expect. Practical Takeaways for Everyday Conversations • Start by clearing away misunderstandings—gently correct false assumptions before presenting the gospel. • Lean on the Holy Spirit in real time; ask Him silently for wisdom and courage as you speak (2 Timothy 1:7). • Anchor explanations in Scripture, not personal preference. God’s Word carries its own authority (Hebrews 4:12). • Keep it simple and timely; Peter used one sentence to refute the mockery, then moved straight to Christ. • Expect God to honor truth spoken in love. Results are His responsibility (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Related Scriptural Encouragements • 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you.” • Acts 4:13 — Observers “recognized that they had been with Jesus.” Time with Christ fuels confidence. • Romans 1:16 — “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” Assurance in its power removes hesitation. Closing Thought Acts 2:15 shows a Spirit-filled believer calmly correcting ridicule and pivoting to the gospel. The same Holy Spirit, the same unchanging truth, and the same risen Lord equip us to speak with humble confidence today. |
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