How should Acts 2:37 influence our approach to sharing the Gospel today? Setting the scene - Pentecost morning: the Spirit falls, Peter preaches Jesus’ death, resurrection, and Lordship (Acts 2:14-36). - The sermon is Scripture-saturated, Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered. The verse - “When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart…” (Acts 2:37a) - “…and asked Peter and the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’” (Acts 2:37b) What “cut to the heart” shows us - God’s word pierces: “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12a). - The Spirit convicts: “He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment” (John 16:8). - True conviction moves people to seek a response, not merely admire the message. Core lessons for today’s Gospel sharing • Rely on Scripture’s power, not cleverness. • Present the whole Christ—His cross, resurrection, exaltation, and promised return. • Expect the Spirit to do the heart-surgery; our task is faithful proclamation. • Watch for the moment of enquiry (“What shall we do?”) and be ready to guide. Guiding the convicted 1. Clarify repentance and faith (Acts 2:38). 2. Point to baptism and public identification with Jesus. 3. Offer the promise of forgiveness and the Spirit (Acts 2:38-39). 4. Urge immediate, personal decision—no vague generalities. Practical steps - Saturate conversations with clear Scripture; don’t shy away from challenging truths. - Pray for the Spirit’s convicting work before, during, and after sharing. - Keep explanations simple: Who Jesus is, what He did, why it matters, how to respond. - When someone shows interest, shift from monologue to dialogue—listen, answer, invite. - Like Peter, give concrete next steps: repent, believe, be baptized, join fellowship. Why this matters “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16a). Acts 2:37 reminds us that when that power is unleashed, hearts are pierced, questions are asked, and souls are ready for the Savior. |
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