October 5

Acts 2: 22- 35
22"You that are Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him among you, as you yourselves know-- 23 this man, handed over to you according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of those outside the law. 24 But God raised him up, having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. 25 For David says concerning him, 'I saw the Lord always before me, for he is at my right hand so that I will not be shaken; 26 therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; moreover my flesh will live in hope. 27 For you will not abandon my soul to Hades, or let your Holy One experience corruption. 28 You have made known to me the ways of life; you will make me full of gladness with your presence.' 29 "Fellow Israelites, I may say to you confidently of our ancestor David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Since he was a prophet, he knew that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would put one of his descendants on his throne. 31 Foreseeing this, David spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, saying, 'He was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh experience corruption.' 32 This Jesus God raised up, and of that all of us are witnesses. 33 Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you both see and hear. 34 For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says, 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at my right hand, 35 until I make your enemies your footstool."'

Peter’s first sermon is about what God is doing in Jesus. Often we expect that a sermon will look at our situation and address our problems. Peter is more concerned about what God did through Jesus of Nazareth. Yes, the audience hearing Peter could well have had a role in the crucifixion. Instead of placing blame, instead Peter invites his hearers recognize what God is doing in Jesus.

Jesus of Nazareth, a man through whom God was at work, was put to death and God raised him from the dead. Not only was he raised, he now reigns over the living and the dead. This is about the present reality of Jesus presence and Jesus reign. Too often the church today speaks only of Jesus saving us from our personal sin. Peter first says that through Jesus, God is involved in all of creation and is the one to whom we must give an account.

It is clear that the book of Acts understands that our world is subject to the will and reign of God. This is not a neutral world. This is a world that is captive to death and corruption. In Jesus the rules have changed and death and corruption are now the footstool of the risen Jesus.

Reflection questions:
1. How does Peter’s world view challenge yours?
2. What role does God’s promises play in this sermon?
3. How does Peter use the scripture in making his point?

Grace and Peace