Gospel in a Minute

When Peter concluded his gospel message in Acts 2, some of his hearers immediately responded. There are three ways people may respond to us: apathy, hostility, or interest. In the category of interest, there are the possibilities of a passionate response or a measured one. Peter’s hearers ardently responded, which is the best possible outcome.

Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brethren, what shall we do?" 38  Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.Acts 2:37-38 (NASB)

Principle: Give clear instructions to those who respond.

When the Holy Spirit opens someone’s heart, there will be a response to the gospel. Be ready to “close the deal” if the opportunity presents itself. Peter gave clear instructions to his respondents.

• Repent – This is the fundamental required response to the message that Jesus is Lord. It means we acknowledge Jesus’ claim to be Lord and willingly submit our lives to him.
• Be baptized in water – Water baptism is a public declaration of  faith – our trust in and allegiance to Christ. It combines inner belief with a public confession.
• Receive the baptism or gift of the Holy Spirit – This baptism done by Christ himself equips and empowers disciples to be bold witnesses.

We should never leave our hearers wondering what to do with our message. Give clear instructions regarding how to begin the discipleship journey.