Morning Message: Error in the Sanhedrin

Bobservations' Column
Titled - "Error in the Sanhedrin"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Last week we read of the healing of a man born lame. That teaching led us to the questioners of that miracle, and Peter’s second sermon to the people who were still there from Pentecost. Peter reproved the Sadducees for their unbelief, in spite of all that the Prophets had spoken, namely the healings by Messiah, and that “they” had been the ones to kill Jesus, Messiah, whose appearance they all awaited.

It is clear from today in Chapter 4 that at least part of the Sanhedrin was present to hear Peter’s words. The Sanhedrin formed the leadership of the Temple, being made up of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and the Scribes. Sadly, the Sadducees did not believe in the spiritual realm and its possibilities. (One time, I heard a Pastor say, “That’s why they are ‘sad, you see?’ ”)

They were missing the things of the Spirit; He by whom the Prophets had all taught. For the Sadducees, seeing was believing. Reality was the only thing that made sense to them. And after hearing Peter’s words of faith-in-Jesus, they laid hands on Peter and the Apostles for teaching the people, believing that the Apostles were simple, unlearned men. They questioned and undermined the ability of the Spirit to directly teach His children. But ever the legalists, you can bet they touched their Mezuzahs each time they entered or exited their homes, the scroll inside, reminding them of “The Shema,” in Deuteronomy 6:4,5 - This is our Triune God.

“Hear O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.”

The Sadducees were in denial of the connection that the Holy Ghost supplied. Therefore, they could deny Jesus as the Holy One, Jesus as Messiah, and His Resurrection. But how could they worship God in the Spirit if they denied the Spirit? Just the same, about 5,000 who had heard Peter and the Apostles, believed anyway. For these, the Prophets and the recent history in Jerusalem convinced them. Oh! For a time such as this! Prophecies fulfilled in their lifetime. And for us also, the Prophets have foretold of our times as well! Is any lacking the Spirit? Ask, and receive Him!

“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches…”  - Revelation 2:7, 11, 17 and 29; 3:3, 13 and 22.

 

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Acts 4:1-22 - "Error in the Sanhedrin"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Last week, chapter 3 ended with Peter addressing the men of Israel at the temple complex at the “porch which is called Solomon’s.” It is while Peter is addressing the people that Chapter 4 begins. That is noted with the words, “And as they spake unto the people.” Peter is still in the process of giving his sermon as this occurs, and his words were heard by some who were not at all pleased with what they were hearing. That will be seen in the coming verses. But, for now, the narrative continues with the identity of those who are not pleased, beginning with “the priests.” 

The first case of persecution against the church is described in this chapter. Peter and John are put into custody because their preaching on the resurrection of Jesus disturbed a number of the religious leaders (in particular the Sadducees who denied any resurrection, Matthew 22:23; Acts 23:8). In the New Testament, the Sanhedrin is best known for their part in the series of mock trials that resulted in the crucifixion of Jesus. The Sanhedrin began with an informal examination of Jesus before Annas, the acting high priest (John 18:12-14, 19-23), followed by a formal session before the entire Sanhedrin (Matthew 26:57-68). There the decision was made to turn Jesus over to the Roman authorities to be tried and crucified. 

The religious leaders of the New Testament—the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Priests—frequently usurped God's authority by elevating their own man-made rules above Scripture, denying His supernatural power, and using the Temple system for political and financial control. We saw them in action in the gospels, and here we are seeing them in action once again. In spite of this, the number of men who believed came to be about five thousand. It is not men who command the work of God, rather it is God who works in the hearts of men.  

After a night in jail, Peter and John are brought before the council, including the high priest and members of his family. Challenged to explain themselves, Peter proclaims the healing was done in the name of Jesus Christ, the very one they crucified yet whom God raised from the dead and who has now become "the chief cornerstone" (cf. Psalm 118:22), and in whose name alone salvation is now available. Amazed at Peter and John's boldness, and unable to deny that the lame man had been healed, the council sends them outside and confer among themselves. They decide to prevent the spread of the apostles' doctrine by threatening Peter and John not to preach or teach in the name of Jesus. The apostles respond that they must speak what they have seen and heard. The council, unable to do anything more at this time because of the people, simply threaten the apostles once again and let them go.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Priests (4:1) - The Office of priest in the Old Testament began with Aaron and his sons (Leviticus 8).  They became the human intermediaries between holy God and sinful humanity.  They were characterized by three qualities: (1) they were chosen and set apart for priestly service by God; (2) they were to be holy in character; and (3) they were the only ones allowed to come near to God on behalf of the people, with the high priest being the chief go between on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16). Jesus is our Mediator and our High Priest: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5).  Hebrews 4–10 details how Jesus is our ultimate High Priest and how His priesthood is far superior to the Levitical priesthood of the Old Testament. The writer of Hebrews also explains how the Old Testament system of priests served to foreshadow the ministry of Jesus. The Levitical priesthood of Aaron’s line was not intended to continue forever. Jesus’ priesthood is eternal.

The Captain of the Temple (4:1) - Chief of the temple police force (composed of Levites) and second-ranking official to the high priest.  The Romans had delegated the temple-policing responsibility to the Jews.

Sadducees (4:1) - The Great Sanhedrin was the supreme court of ancient Israel, made up of 70 men and the high priest. In the Second Temple period, the Great Sanhedrin met in the Temple in Jerusalem. The court convened every day except festivals and on the Sabbath. The Sanhedrin as a body claimed powers that lesser Jewish courts did not have. As such, they were the only ones who could try the king or extend the boundaries of the Temple and Jerusalem, and were the ones to whom all questions of law were finally put.  The Sadducees were known for denying the supernatural, including the resurrection of the dead and the existence of angels (Acts 23:8). Unlike the Pharisees, they rejected human tradition, accepted only the Pentateuch (Genesis - Deuteronomy) as authoritative, and scorned legalism.  They tended to be wealthy, aristocratic members of the priestly tribe and, in the days of Herod, controlled the temple.  They were rationalists, liberals, compromisers and political opportunists. The only time they united with the Pharisees was to oppose and crucify Jesus.

Preached through Jesus the Resurrection (4:2) - This part of the apostles' message was the most objectionable to the Jewish leaders.  They had executed Christ as a blasphemer, and now Peter and John were proclaiming His Resurrection.

Eventide (Already Evening) (4:3) - The Jews detained Peter and John overnight in jail because Jewish law did not permit trials at night.  It had been too late to convene the Sanhedrin that afternoon, so the apostles would face a hearing the next day before that council. 

Five Thousand (4:4) - The cumulative total of men in the Jerusalem church by this time, not the number of those converted after Peter's latest message. All people were to attend each pilgrim feast, without exception. However, the reckoning is based upon the males. In the feeding of the five thousand, only the men were counted. As such, the number was at least double and possibly triple or more of that number, depending on how many family members were present.

Rulers, Elders, and Scribes (4:5) - These positions made up the Jewish ruling body, the Sanhedrin. 

Annas . . . Caiaphas (4:6) - Even though Annas (A.D. 6-15) had been replaced and Caiaphas was now high priest (A.D. 18-36), he retained his title and wielded great influence.

John . . . Alexander (4:6) - Their identities are uncertain. "John" could be an alternate reading for "Jonathan," who was one of Annas' sons and replaced Caiaphas as high priest in A.D. 36. The Pulpit Commentary says – “Of John and Alexander nothing further is known, but Farrar conjectures that John may be "the celebrated Johanan Ben Zakkai, and Alexander perhaps the wealthy brother of Philo.” Regardless of their identity, they were known at the time of Luke’s writing, and thus they add validity to his narrative that would otherwise be lacking. Along with these, it next says, “and as many as were of the family of the high priest.”

Filled with the Holy Spirit (4:8) - Because Peter was under the control of the Holy Spirit, he was able to face persecution and preach the gospel with power (cf. Luke 12:11, 12). This is something explicitly said to the disciples of Jesus concerning their ministry – 350 “Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. 12 For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” -Luke 12:11, 12 In fulfillment of that, Peter is filled with the words and the wisdom of God to respond in the manner best determined by Him. As this is so, the exact and perfect words necessary to fulfill His purposes will be realized.

Rulers . . . Elders (4:8) - Peter is standing before the leaders of Israel. The high priest was the mediator of the sacrificial system of the covenant. It is a minutely detailed system that was set up to anticipate the work of Jesus Christ. But a main point of that system was that various levels of authority within the nation required particular sacrifices for guilt. In other words, when the high priest sinned, the sacrifice and the blood of the sacrifice had to be handled differently than for the common people (see Leviticus 4:1-12). This is true with a ruler of the people (see Leviticus 4:22-26) and of a sin committed by the entire congregation (see Leviticus 4:13-21). However, because Christ had come and fulfilled the typology of all of these sacrifices, and because He had then brought the Mosaic Covenant to its fulfillment and annulment, those in these positions must come through Him to receive atonement – meaning the high priest, the rulers, and indeed the entire congregation. The national guilt exists, and it cannot be cleansed apart from acceptance of the work of their Messiah. The Scribes and the Pharisees - these rulers sat upon the seat of Moses. They administered the legislative aspect of the covenant. Along with the high priest who administered the sacrificial parts of it, they should have known better. They were responsible for knowing Scripture and understanding the time of their visitation. But they failed in this. The national guilt rested upon them. Peter is, once again, speaking to them in hopes of removing this guilt. If they reject His words, which are now recorded in Acts, those words will stand as a witness against them.

This is the Stone . . . Set At Nought (Rejected) . . . the Head of the Corner (Chief Cornerstone) (4:11) - Peter just referred to Jesus, who was crucified by the leaders. Now, to directly show the fulfillment of Scripture in this, he cites Psalm 118:22, beginning with, “This is.”  The words are clear enough to get the sense of Peter’s intent. With this subject given, he then says that He is “the stone.” The Hebrew word, translated as “stone,” is eben. That comes from the same root as the word banah, "to build." As such, it is something that is employed in a building process. For example, one builds an altar with stones. Also, one builds a temple with stones. In Genesis 28, Jacob is said to have used a stone for resting his head when he had his dream of a ladder reaching to heaven. One can see the symbolism of Christ in it. A stone was set, and from it a ladder was placed reaching back to heaven. Christ is the stone, Christ is the ladder, Christ is the gate (the door) at the top of the ladder – He is the means of access to restoration with God. In the morning, Jacob set up the stone, building a pillar as a memorial to what occurred. Since ancient times, builders have used cornerstones in their construction projects. A cornerstone was the principal stone, usually placed at the corner of an edifice, to guide the workers in their course. The cornerstone was usually one of the largest, the most solid, and the most carefully constructed of any in the edifice. The Bible describes Jesus as the cornerstone that His church would be built upon. He is foundational. Once the cornerstone was set, it became the basis for determining every measurement in the remaining construction; everything was aligned to it. As the cornerstone of the building of the church, Jesus is our standard of measure and alignment.

No Other Name (4:12) - This refers to the exclusivity of salvation by faith in Jesus Christ.  There are only two religious paths:  the broad way of works salvation leading to eternal death, and the narrow way of faith in Jesus leading to eternal life.  The Lord Jesus spoke of this.  (Matthew 7:13, 14; cf. John 10:7, 8; 15:6).

Unlearned (Uneducated) and Ignorant (Untrained) Men (4:13) - Peter and John were not educated in the rabbinical schools and had no formal training in Old Testament theology. It is a new word in Scripture, idiótés. One can see the immediate connection to our modern word “idiot,” of which it still bears a similar meaning to that of the Greek. It signifies a person who lacks education or proper instruction. Because of this, his words would be poorly structured and easily misunderstood. However, despite being unlettered and unlearned Galileans – apparent idiots in comparison to them – the apostles spoke with an eloquence and flavor of speech that amazed the council. As such, “they marveled.” They were trained by the Son of God, Himself and filled with the Spirit of God who empowered them and gave them utterance.

Conferred Among Themselves (4:15) - The apostles were proclaiming Jesus was alive when those of the council had seen Him crucified and dead. They were proclaiming He was the Messiah when the leaders of the nation had rejected Him. They were proclaiming healing in His name while these same leaders had ambled past the man day after day without ever entertaining such a thought. What was happening was like a stain upon them in many ways and they wanted it washed away. As such, they looked for an answer to the matter and “they conferred among themselves.” The main reason for this private deliberation was to come to an agreed resolution on the matter. Each division of these men had something to gain from stopping the speech of the apostles, and each of them surely had something to lose if the matter was not handled properly. Certain aspects of their previous involvement in the crucifixion of Christ could come to light. But more, and this surely had to be on their minds, is the continued nagging thought that what these men had been preaching might be true. The evidence of the healing was undeniable. The conversion of many thousands had already taken place. These things were not hidden in a corner. What was decided by this council wasn’t just a matter of imprisoning a couple of hicks from Galilee. Rather, it was something that appeared to be substantial, and it was growing more so with each day that passed.

To Hearken (Listen) to You More than to God (4:19) - This is what is of paramount importance, and their words clearly indicate it as such. The highest human authorities in the land have gathered, those who sit on Moses’ seat, those who minister in the temple, the elders, and so on. They all have rendered a decision concerning a matter, but Peter and John together voice their minds, elevating the matter to one that must be pleasing to God, first and foremost. The implication clearly is that they believe those in authority before them are – by default – not pleasing to God in their judgment. Their words want to know if it is right in God’s sight “to listen to you more than to God.” The Son of God had come. He had demonstrated His position and authority, and He was now to be heard, confirming the very words of Moses that the council had rejected. So, who should the apostles listen to, God or these men? With this stated to them, they adamantly state, “you judge.” Christians should obey governmental authority (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17), but when government decrees are clearly contrary to God's Word, God must be obeyed (cf. Exodus 1:15-17; Daniel 6:4-10).

Morning Message: The Work of the Holy Spirit

Bobservations' Column
Titled - "The Work of the Holy Spirit"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

At the end of the last week’s teaching, we read in Acts 2:41, that 3,000 individuals were added to this fledgling First Christian Church of Jerusalem. This week we witness what can only be described as a foundation for a Christian cliché. We have all heard it at some point: “Walking into a Church, does not make you a Christian.”

Just as the Holy Spirit manifested Himself as tongues of fire over the Apostles and Disciples, His work needs to continue in the hearts of newly professing “believers” to bear new, good fruit from their lives.

Anyone can have an emotional response to the excitement witnessed at a Revival or a Crusade. It can build a sense of fellowship and community with our fellow man, but that is not a relationship with Our Great Three-in-One (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). It brings a sense of unity, but that’s just one more step on the road to true salvation.

Salvation is the goal of the Holy Spirit, always pointing us to Jesus; it is a unique personal one-on-one relationship with Jesus that supersedes truly wonderful interpersonal relationships with other people. The final verse of Chapter 2 speaks loud and clear: while many had been added to the Church, truly changed lives meant the Holy Spirit’s work was not yet finished, (Verse 2:47) “And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.”

Do not misunderstand me, the two things go hand-in-hand, but the work of salvation is not complete until our relationship with Jesus Christ is at the core of every interaction with every human being, whether they are saved, or not. We must think of strangers as “Perspective Brothers and Sisters in Christ,” and our actions should be to help anyone along their road to salvation.

Changes will continue. Miracles will follow…

“Being confident in this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." - Philippians 1:6

Bobservations' Column - Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Acts 2:42 - 3:11 - "The Work of the Holy Spirit"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

In last week's study, we find Peter preaching his first sermon, proving Jesus is the Messiah. When the crowd realizes they are complicit in the murder of God's Messiah, their reaction is immediate. They follow Peter's guidance to repent of their sins, trust Jesus to forgive them, and agree to be baptized as a public declaration of their new found faith in Jesus Christ. In response to their faith, the Holy Spirit comes on them. In all, about three thousand make this commitment.

As we continue our study from chapter 2 in verse 42, thus begins the church in Jerusalem, which continues steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and prayers. Signs and wonders are done by the apostles, while the believers display their love and devotion through acts of benevolence and frequent worship. They enjoy the favor of the people, and the Lord adds to the church daily those being saved.

Chapter 3 opens with Peter and John going to the temple at the hour of prayer. They encounter a man lame from birth begging for alms at the gate called Beautiful. Rather than giving him alms, Peter, in the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, commands the man to rise up walk. Taking the lame man by the right hand and lifting him up, the man is healed instantly and completely. Walking, leaping, and praising God, he accompanies Peter and John into the temple to the wonder and amazement of the crowd.

Sunday Morning Audio Message: 

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Continued Steadfastly in the Apostles Doctrine (2:42) - This is the result of true conversion. The word is more precisely rendered “teaching.” It signifies both the act and the matter rather than just the matter (as in “doctrine”). Those who had joined the faith were willing to sit and be instructed on what it meant to enter into the New Covenant. The foundational content for the believer's spiritual growth and maturity was the Scripture, God's revealed truth, which the apostles received and taught faithfully.

Fellowship (2:42) - Literally "partnership" or "sharing." Vincent’s Word Studies provides the meaning – “From κοινός, [koinos] common. A relation between individuals which involves a common interest and a mutual, active participation in that interest and in each other." Because Christians become partners with Jesus Christ and all other believers (1 John 1:3), it is their spiritual duty to stimulate one another to righteousness and obedience (cf. Romans 12:10; 13:8; 15:5; Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 4:2, 25; 5:21; Colossians 3:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; Hebrews 3:13; 10:24, 25; 1 Peter 4:9, 10).

Breaking of Bread (2:42) - A reference to the Lord's Table, or Communion, which is mandatory for all Christians to observe (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:24-29). The word used, klasis, is derived from a word, klaó, signifying “to break.” It is found only here and in Luke 24:35 where Jesus broke the bread in Emmaus after His resurrection. This is the final use of the word in Scripture, but the connection to Luke 24 may be intended to signify more than just the fact that common meals were shared, but that each meal was considered a participation in the Lord’s Supper.

Prayers (2:42) - Of individual believers and the church corporately (see 1:14, 24; 4:24-31; cf. John 14:13, 14).  Even the prayer life of these early believers was a united activity, and it shows the highly intimate closeness of the body as they continued on in their relationship in Jesus Christ.

Fear Came Upon Every Soul (2:43) - The word "fear" does not speak of terror, but of awe. I would image every soul present was in awe of what was happening around them.

Wonders and Signs (2:43) - The words here are teras and sémeion. The teras, or wonder, is something that is done in order to bring about a reaction from those who see it. The effect upon those who witness it is intended to bring about a change in them. A wonder is a thing that is evident in itself. It is something that extends beyond what is normal and is thus considered miraculous. When it is done, it is to be attributed to the Lord because there is no other explanation for it to occur. The sémeion, or sign, is a sign, a miracle, a token, and so on. It generally is given to authenticate, corroborate, or confirm a person or a matter. Whereas a wonder is the thing itself, the sign stands for, testifies to, or points to something else. A simple example of a sign would be the blood of the Passover applied to the doorposts of a house. It is a sign. Jesus’ miracles, at times, are noted as signs. Though they may be miraculous, like the changing of water to wine, they are signs that were given to authenticate Him as the Messiah and His ministry as approved by God. These things, having been done through the apostles, were clear demonstrations of the power and effective working of the Lord, and they were given as confirmations of their office and of the approval by the Lord concerning their ministry.

All Things in Common (2:44) - This phrase conveys not that the early Christians lived in a commune or pooled and redistributed everything equally, but that they held their own possessions lightly, ready to use them at any moment for someone else, as needs arose.

Sold Their Possessions (2:45) - This indicates that they had not pooled their resources but sold their own possessions to provide money for those of the church in need (cf. v. 46; 4:34-37; 2 Corinthians 8:13, 14).

Daily . . . in the Temple (2:46) - Believers went to the temple to praise God (v. 47), to observe the daily hours of prayer (cf. 3:1), and to witness to the gospel (v. 47; 5:42).

Breaking Bread from House to House (2:46) - This has reference to the daily means that believers shared with one another.  These verses show the unity of believers in the early church.  When they weren't at the temple, they were at someone's home.  Wherever the believers dwelt, other believers would come and sit over a meal, symbolized by the breaking of bread that would set the tone for the meal.

Gladness and Singlenss of Heart (2:46) - The Jerusalem church was joyful because its single focus was on Jesus Christ. One can think of the complete joy of knowing they had become a part of what God had been preparing since the fall of man. Step by step, He was working in the world as it led to the coming of Christ and toward the restoration of all things in Him. These early believers were sensing the glory of God in a way that probably stunned their senses from moment to moment.

The Lord Added (2:47) - Salvation is God's sovereign work. It is the Lord who gave Scripture, it is the Lord who fulfilled Scripture, it was the Lord who appointed His ambassadors, and thus it is the Lord who adds to the church.

Hour of Prayer, the Ninth Hour (3:1) - The nineth hour is 3:00 p.m.  The Jews had three daily times of prayer (Psalm 55:17); the other two were 9:00 A.M. (third hour) and 12:00 noon (sixth hour).

Gate of the Temple . . . Called Beautiful (3:2) - A large and ornate gate inside the temple mount on the eastern side, separating the Court of the Gentiles from the Court of the Women.

Alms (3:2) - A charitable donation of money.

Into the Temple (3:3) - Beggars considered the temple the best site to operate because the daily throngs came to impress God with their pious good works, including offerings at the temple treasury.

Porch . . . Solomon's (3:11) - A portico surrounding the temple's Court of the Gentiles.  this was also where Jesus had taught about the Good Shepherd (John 10:23).  cf. Isaiah 35:6.

Morning Message: Proof for the Critics

Bobservations' Column
Titled - "Proof for the Critics"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Peter’s initial words in today’s passage, “Ye men of Israel…” seem to indicate that he is addressing the Leaders of the Jews which took part in the plot to get Jesus out of the way, regardless of where they had come. Leaders from all of Jewry would have made sure they arrived early to Passover at Jerusalem to assure good accommodations for themselves and their families. The “determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God” has assured they were the ones to fulfill His Word, turning God’s only begotten Son into the Lamb of God, fulfilling prophecy!

They were either blind to the prophecies, or had convinced themselves that the prophecies of God’s suffering servant were not to be directed at themselves. Solomon has written that there is “nothing new under the sun,” so it is quite likely that in the end-times, there will be others who will be blind to the very world conditions that Jesus spoke of as a warning to all mankind.

Yet, it is in 2 Peter 2:3,4 that it says, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” This is a warning to the Church of today! We still have scoffers and doubters living amongst us; some even in our Churches! I recall the Pastor of a Church telling me one time that his church did not Study the Book of Revelation because it was too spiritual, even though it comes with an outline right in the in the text.

Studying just portions of God’s Word leaves us with less than a full understanding of the truth of our God, and Savio; who He is; the depth of His love and forgiveness; indeed, even the lengths to which He has gone to save us! I also hear of New Testament Churches, that don’t teach the Old Testament scriptures. For our brothers and sisters in those churches, we need to pray.

“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” - John 1:14

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Acts 2:22-41 - "Proof for the Critics"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Last week, we ended with Peter, standing with the rest of the apostles, and explaining that what has happened is a fulfillment of Joel's prophecy (Joel 2:28-32), who foretold that God would pour out His Spirit in the last days (Acts 2: 14-21).

Today, we see Peter preach Jesus of Nazareth to the crowd, reminding them of His miracles, their involvement in His death, and proclaiming that God raised Him from the dead. As proof for the resurrection, Peter offers three lines of evidence:

1. 1) The prophecy by David, who foretold of the resurrection (Psalm 16:8-11).
2. 2) The twelve apostles as witnesses.
3. 3) The Spirit's outpouring itself, indicative of Christ's exaltation and reception of the promise of the Spirit from the Father. In conclusion, Peter pronounces that God has made Jesus, whom they crucified, both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:22-36).

Cut to the heart, the people ask the apostles what they should do. Peter commands them to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins and gift of the Holy Spirit. With many other words he exhorts them to be saved, and about 3000 souls gladly receive his word and are baptized (Acts 2:37-41).

Thus begins the church in Jerusalem, which continues steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and prayers. Signs and wonders are done by the apostles, while the believers display their love and devotion through acts of benevolence and frequent worship. They enjoy the favor of the people, and the Lord adds to the church daily those being saved (Acts 2:42-47).

Sunday Morning Audio Message: 

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Men of Israel (2:22) - Peter is addressing his fellow Israelites. These are the descendants of Jacob, who is Israel. It would also include any who were brought into Israel as proselytes according to the established norms. With that understood, he next says, “hear these words.”

Jesus of Nazareth (2:22) - He is calling for complete attention so that the reason for quoting Joel can be properly explained. The main connection between the events and the citing of the prophecy will be seen in verse 2:33, but he must first give a logical explanation of what led up to the pouring out of the Spirit. With that understood, he immediately introduces the main Subject of his explanation, saying, “Jesus of Nazareth.” The entire point and purpose of his words comes forth in the stating of the name. In saying “of Nazareth,” he is tying in the reason it is Galileans who spoke the astonishing tongues (see verse 2:7). But more, it is an explanation as to why Nazareth is relevant at all. It is a reminder of the prophecy of Isaiah. In Isaiah 9:1-2, the “great light” that shone in Galilee of the Gentiles had come, thus – without saying it – not only is the prophecy of Joel fulfilled, but it is fulfilled by the One prophesied by Isaiah as well. Thus, it is the reason those who stood before the gathered of Israel were Galileans.

Approved . . . By Miracles, Wonders, and Signs (2:22) - Some translations use "Attested" signifies to show by proof, to demonstrate. By a variety of supernatural means and works, God validated Jesus as the Messiah (cf. Matthew 11:1-6; Luke 7:20-23; John 3:2; 5:17-20; 8:28; Philippians 2:9).  The first is “miracles.” The word is dunamis, and it speaks of mighty, powerful, and marvelous works. The second is “wonders.” The word is teras. It speaks of an extraordinary event which is given to bring forth a reaction from those who witness it, such as a portent from heaven. The third is “signs.” The word is sémeion. A sign is something that speaks to, or provides evidence of, something else. In other words, a sign is not the thing itself, but points to something other than itself. A sign in the sky may tell the people the Messiah has come. The changing of water to wine may testify to the coming change from the Mosaic Covenant to a New Covenant.

By the Determinate Counsel and Foreknowledge of God (2:23) - Peter now gets to the point concerning the error of the Jews in what has occurred. He just noted that Christ was “attested by God” because of the “miracles, wonders, and signs” that He accomplished. This is something that they were all perfectly well aware of.  The word “determined” is translated from the Greek word horizó. One can see the root of the word “horizon.” Being a verb, it signifies “to set limits on.” There was an eternal purpose of God that set the boundaries for what would occur because God had ordained it to be so. The word is used again in Acts 17:26 where the meaning is clearly explained from the text.  As such, the process of redemption was certainly the result of the “foreknowledge of God.” Here is a new word in Scripture, prognósis. One can see the obvious connection to our modern word of the same spelling. God’s foreknowledge allows Him to There was an eternal purpose of God that set the boundaries for what would occur because God had ordained it to be so.

Wicked Hands, Have Crucified (2:23) - Peter now states the words that are connected to the idea of being “betrayed” as noted above. He says, “you have taken.” Here is a word used only once in Scripture, ekdotos. It is an adjective in the singular. Hence, it more appropriately reads, “[man] delivered.” In other words, it is referring to Jesus. With that understood, the KJV next reads, “by wicked (lawless) hands.” The translation should be singular, "hand." The guilt of the nation is highlighted in these words. It doesn’t matter if every person standing there had done this. Nor does it matter today, two thousand years later, that none of the people now alive were there. The guilt is a national guilt. Hence, Peter’s words are addressed to all.  That the Crucifixion was predetermined by God does not absolve the guilt of those who caused it.

Not Possible (2:24) - Because of His divine power (John 11:25; Hebrews 2:14) and God's promise and purpose (Luke 24:46; John 2:18-22; 1 Corinthians 15:16-26), death could not keep Jesus in the grave.

David Speaketh (2:25-28) - Here the Lord was speaking of His Resurrection prophetically through David.

Hell (or Hades) (2:27) - This is the New Testament equivalent of the Old Testament "grave", or "Sheol."  Though sometimes it identifies hell (Matthew 11:23), here it refers to the general place of the dead.

His Sepulchre (Tomb) is with Us (2:29) - A reminder to the Jews that David's body had never been raised, so he could not be the fulfillment of the prophecy of Psalm 16. Peter exposits the meaning of Psalm 16 as referring not to David, but to Jesus Christ.  He would be raised to reign (vs. 30-32; cf. Psalms 2:1-9; 89:3).

Being a Prophet (2:30) - Peter quoted Psalm 132:11. As God's spokesman, David knew that God would keep His oath (2 Samuel 7;11-16) and Christ would come. Peter quoted Psalm 16:10 in the following verse.

God Raised Up (2:32) - “This Jesus,” he now repeats the fact stated in verse 2:24, saying, “God has raised up.” The repetition is to demonstrate that what he had claimed is perfectly in line with the prophecy of David. That "God has raised up" attests to His approval of Christ's work on the Cross (cf. verse 23; 10:40; 17:31; 1 Corinthians 6:14; Ephesians 1:20).

We All Are Witnesses (2:32) - Because of the office, the apostles remained together while all the others were scattered. Understanding this, Peter’s words now that “we all are witnesses” is most likely speaking of whatever size of group of disciples were gathered and upon whom had been poured out the Holy Spirit. As there were more than twelve languages identified by Luke, it is probable that it was a gathering of all of the disciples, and Peter is referring to all of them. Be it twelve, one hundred and twenty, or more, the matter is legally established before the people with his words. Deuteronomy 19:15 set the standard for witnesses in any testimony concerning iniquity or sin as “two or three witnesses.” That became the standard for any testimony in Israel. Jesus noted that to the Pharisees in John 8:17 because it was a clearly accepted provision among the people. Therefore, the matter of the resurrection is clearly established through the multiple witnesses standing before the people.

Being by the Right Hand of God Exalted (2:33) - “Therefore . . . exalted.” The word means “to lift up,” or “to raise on high.” Thus, it signifies “to elevate.” This happened to Christ who was dead. He was found worthy, and death could not hold Him. He was raised up – from the grave to the throne, and from the humiliation of the cross and death to the glory and power of the eternal King. The right hand signifies power, both in action (ability) and in position (authority). God’s power (His right hand) raised Jesus (Romans 10:9), and Jesus is seated at the right hand (the position of authority) of God (Romans 8:34). With this understood, Peter next says, “and having received from the Father.” What Peter will refer to is something that had to wait for the full course of these events to occur. Christ was raised from the dead by the power of God, but He remained for a span before ascending to the Father. Only with that action completed would the disciples receive “the promise of the Holy Spirit.”

The LORD said to My Lord (2:34) - Peter quoted another psalm (Psalm 110:1) concerning the exaltation of Messiah by ascension to the right hand of God, and reminds the reader that it was not fulfilled by David (as bodily Resurrection had not yet been, but by Jesus Christ (v. 36).  Peter had been an eyewitness to that Ascension (1:9-11).

Therefore, Let All the House of Israel Know Assuredly (2:36) - They are words that are to be heard, understood, and (hopefully) accepted as absolute truth. Hence Peter follows with “let . . . know.” It is the common Greek word ginóskó, signifying “to come to know,” “to recognize,” “to perceive,” and so on. Peter is indicating that the result of the surety of the matter that he has presented is intended to “let all the house of Israel” come to understand that – whether they like it or not, and whether they accept it or not – that the matter is established.

The term “house of Israel” is a way of saying “family.” In the Old Testament, Israel was the father of twelve sons. He also adopted two sons of Joseph as his own. It is this family which comprises the whole house of Israel. Descendants from all of these tribes were gathered at the temple, they had seen the effects of the coming of the Spirit upon the apostles, and they had heard the explanation of the event. From there, they were to accept what was presented and continue to convey this message to all others in this nation – the “house of Israel.” And what is it specifically that Israel is to hear, understand, and (hopefully) accept? Well, it is a thought that is based on what Peter had just presented right from Scripture, and which was fulfilled in the coming of Jesus. This same "Jesus of Nazareth", who was attested to Israel by God, and whom God raised up from the dead, is the One that Peter is referring to. It is also He, as Peter says to Israel, “whom you crucified.” These words would have been like sharp arrows pointing directly at the hearts of the men standing there. What had occurred was an event that was prophesied, and it was an event that was then fulfilled. But it was an event that Israel had been responsible for.

Both Lord and Christ (2:36) - Jesus is God as well as anointed Messiah (cf. Romans 1:4; 10:9; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Philippians 2:9, 11). The word translated as “Lord” (kurios) signifies a Master. In the Greek, it can indicate the Lord (YHVH). The word Christ (Greek: Christos) comes from the word chrió, signifying “to anoint by rubbing or pouring olive oil on someone to represent the flow (empowering) of the Holy Spirit. Anointing (literally) involved rubbing olive oil on the head, etc., especially to present someone as divinely-authorized (appointed by God) to serve as prophet, priest or king”.  As such, it means “Anointed One.” Thus, it is a direct translation of the Hebrew word “Messiah.” God has made this Jesus both the Lord of Israel and the Messiah of Israel.

Pricked in their Heart (2:37) - "Pricked" means pierce, to pain the mind sharply, agitate it vehemently. Some translations us the word cut, they essentially mean the same thing. The Greek word for "cut" means "pierce" or "stab," and thus denotes something sudden and unexpected.  In grief, remorse, and intense spiritual conviction, Peter's listeners were stunned by his indictment that they had killed their Messiah.

Repent (2:38) - This refers to a change of mind and purpose that turns an individual from sin to God (1 Thessalonians 1:9).  Such change involves more than fearing the consequences of God's judgment.  Genuine repentance knows that the evil of sin must be forsaken and the person and work of Christ totally and singularly embraced.  Peter exhorted his hearers to Repent, otherwise they would not experience true conversion.

Be Baptized (2:38) - This Greek word literally means "be dipped or immersed" in water.  Peter was obeying Christ's command from Matthew 28:19 and urging the people who repented and turned to the Lord Christ for salvation to identify, through the waters of baptism, with His death, burial, and Resurrection (cf. Romans 6:3, 4; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:27).  This is the first time the apostles publicly enjoined people to obey that ceremony.  Prior to this, many Jews had experienced the baptism of John the Baptist, and were also familiar with the baptism of Gentile converts to Judaism (proselytes).

In the Name of Jesus Christ (2:38) - For the new believer, it was a crucial but costly identification to accept.

For the Remission of Sins (2:38) - This might better be translated "because of the remission of sins."  Baptism does not produce forgiveness and cleansing from sin.  The reality of forgiveness precedes the rite of baptism (v. 41).  Genuine repentance brings from God the forgiveness (remission of sins (cf. Ephesians 1:7) and, because of that, the new believer was to be baptized.  Baptism, however, was to be the ever-present act of obedience, so that it became synonymous with salvation.  Thus, to say one was baptized for the forgiveness was the same as saying one was saved.  Every believer enjoys the complete remission of sins.

The Gift of the Holy Spirit (2:38) - A gift is something one cannot earn. It is grace and nothing more. And yet, Peter has said they must do something in order to receive it. The apostles had received the gift. It simply came upon them. But it did not come upon the others. This means that the reception of the gift is conditional. Repent and Believe - a heart issue. There are no works here. There are only set requirements. And the gift they would receive would be that “of the Holy Spirit.” This is salvation. It is the sealing of the person for redemption. It is receiving the full, final, and forever forgiveness of sins through the shed blood of Christ. It is moving from the Mosaic Covenant (the Law of Moses) to the New Covenant in Christ’s blood. It is the covenant that speaks of the non-imputation of sin and the surety of reconciliation with God for all eternity.

The Promise (2:39) - The Holy Spirit being poured out is the establishment of the New Covenant.  The prophesy of Jeremiah 31:31 and Joel 2:17

All Who Are Afar Off (2:39) - These are Gentiles, who would also share in the blessings of salvation.

They That Gladly Received His Word were Baptized (2:41) - The people had believed, meaning they had faith after receiving the word. In this, they were saved. And so, as an outward demonstration of the inward change, they were water baptized.

Three Thousand (2:41) - A large number indeed!  Luke's specific number suggests records were kept of conversions and baptisms.  Archeological work on the south side of the temple mount has uncovered numerous Jewish Mikvahs, large baptistry-like facilities where Jewish worshipers would immerse themselves in ritual purification before entering the temple.  More than enough existed to facilitate the large number of baptisms in a short amount of time.  

The number three thousand is an important number to see and understand. This is because it fulfills a pattern that is set forth in Scripture in which a theological point is made in Exodus 32. 

At Sinai, which according to Galatians 4 symbolizes the temple in Jerusalem, the law was received, and it was written on tablets of stone. Those tablets were given to Moses but were broken at the base of the mountain because of the people’s turning from the Lord to a false God.

After this, three thousand people died because of their sins. In Acts 2, at the temple in Jerusalem, the word of the Lord was again given, but this time it was written on the tablets of the hearts of the people, as Paul calls the work of the Spirit in 2 Corinthians 3:3. In this, three thousand people were saved because of their faith in Christ Jesus.

The two accounts are given to show the superiority of the fulfilled law in Christ to the giving of the law by Moses. One was written on stone, and it leads to death. The other is written on the heart, and it leads to life. It was a perverse generation who failed to believe, having time and again rejected the Lord in the wilderness, and it was a perverse generation who rejected Christ and sought to seek their own righteousness apart from Him. The lesson we see is that for those three thousand who died at Sinai, they died in sin because of their deeds and their failure to believe. For the three thousand who received Jesus in Jerusalem, they died to sin because of faith in the deeds of Jesus. The contrast is complete.