“Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you
crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”
When the people heard this they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other
apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off— for all whom the Lord our God will call.”
With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”
Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
Gracious God and Heavenly Father,
When Peter confronted the Jews about having crucified the Messiah, there were those who felt guilt and shame and wanted to know what to do. Peter told them they must repent and be baptized. We are no less guilty ourselves of sinning against your Holy One and we too have a choice, either to harden our hearts or to turn to him for forgiveness. Peter shared the promise that the Holy Spirit would be given to all who repent and believe and a warning not to go the way of “this corrupt generation”. Our generation is no less corrupt than any preceding generation and the plea must be no less urgent. The choice is the same. May we be among those who put our trust in the Lord and lead many to the only choice that makes sense. A Spirit filled life of forgiveness, obedience, thankfulness and joy.
In Christ’s name. AMEN.