Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Acts 2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.
PETER'S PENTECOST SERMON: "THIS JESUS"
In this post-modern age it's extremely important to be specific about who and what we believe. This is why we use written confessions of faith. We want to be as upfront and transparent to the world as possible. It's often not good enough anymore to say that "I believe in God." In people's minds "God" can mean several different things. There are lots of false gods out in the world. How will people know who we're talking about if we don't get specific?
Peter got specific in his sermon. Not only did Peter say "This Jesus," he also used the definite article with Jesus' name, a point that doesn't come across in our English translation. Literally, Peter said, "This, [the] Jesus." He said the very same thing in verse 32 too. Peter made sure to leave no doubt as to whom he was speaking about.
It was "This Jesus" who had been put to death by some of the very people Peter spoke to.
It was "This Jesus" whom God raised from the dead.
It was "This Jesus" who now reigns with all power and authority in heaven.
It was "This Jesus" who now poured out the Holy Spirit upon His Church.
It is "This Jesus" in whom we believe and whom we preach. As we do this, let's be specific.
