The First Sermon
Acts 2:14-41
Peter’s first sermon provides for us not only a pattern for what a Christian sermon should be, but also for our own evangelistic efforts.
Note these
Five Elements for Evangelism:
1. Answer & Explanation
Peter answers their wrong thinking about what’s going on and briefly explains what’s really going on.
1 Peter 3:15 – always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you
In quoting Joel 2:28-32, he points us to the clearest and probably the most important passage on the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament.
He’s here! This is Him!!!
We see in the Joel passage, the Holy Spirit, judgment, and salvation.
We’re in a new age now:
• God has brought His plan of salvation to its completion
• Jesus has finished His work of redemption
• The Spirit now dwells in His people
• We are to take this message to the nations.
When Jesus returns, there will be judgment.
Acts 17:31 – he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness
But those who have trusted in Him have no need to fear.
Acts 2:21 – And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’
2. Bible Centered - When you share Christ with people, as much as you can, use Scripture. Quote Scripture. God’s Word has inherent authority. (see the Gospel Learning Kit for more on this)
3. Christ-Centered
It’s obvious, but make it all about Jesus.
A significant emphasis on the work of Christ
Jesus’ miracles (and you know about them) were manifestations of God’s power designed to get people’s attention and point them to the truth of who He was.
The problem wasn’t that they didn’t know about Jesus - it was that they rejected Him.
We have the same problem today - it’s not that we don’t know who Jesus is - it’s that we reject Him.
The basic elements of a Gospel Presentation:
Jesus is the Son of God
Jesus lived a perfect life
Jesus did miracles, proving who He was
Jesus died on the cross
Jesus rose again - HE’S ALIVE!
The Resurrection is of central importance to the gospel.
1. Because He’s GOD!! (John 11:25, Hebrews 2:14)
2. Because of Prophecy (John 2:19-22)
3. Because of His divine purpose (Luke 24:46)
That’s happening in real time in this passage.
The Psalms quoted are distinctly about Christ
Psalm 16 - confident trust in God
Psalm 110 - is a Judgment Psalm
4. The Conclusion:
We’re all guilty of sin and stand in need of forgiveness We’re all in one of only two categories:
God’s children
God’s enemies
Had you been there, you would have done the same thing that the Jews did - you would have asked for Barabbas to be released.
THE Question: WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?
5. The Appeal: Repent and Believe
Peter appeals to them, just as we should.
2 Corinthians 5:20 – we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
It’s very simple:
A - Admit, recognize, and own that you’re a sinner
B - Believe in, trust in, rely on, cling to Christ as your only hope.
C - Confess with your life that He is your Lord and Master.
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