In the Book of Acts, Peter’s speeches present a very simple and powerful message about Jesus. Unlike later Christian theology, Peter does not ask people to accept complex doctrines. Instead, he calls them to believe a few essential truths about what God has done through Jesus.
Peter begins by affirming that Jesus’ life and ministry came from God. The miracles and signs Jesus performed were clear evidence that God was working through him. Though Jesus was rejected and killed, Peter insists that this tragic death did not defeat God’s purpose. Jesus’ crucifixion, though carried out by human hands, took place within God’s larger plan.
The center of Peter’s message is the resurrection. He repeatedly tells the crowds that God raised Jesus from the dead, overturning the injustice of his death. The resurrection is, for Peter, God’s public declaration that Jesus is indeed the promised Messiah. Because Jesus is risen, Peter says, he has now been exalted to God’s right hand, where he reigns as Lord and pours out the Holy Spirit on those who believe.
From this, Peter draws a clear conclusion: Jesus is both Lord and Messiah. This is the heart of Peter’s proclamation. He then invites people to respond by repenting, turning to God, and being baptized in the name of Jesus. Through this commitment, they receive forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit, entering into a new life shaped by God’s presence.
Finally, Peter speaks of the future. He teaches that Jesus will one day return to complete God’s work and bring about the restoration of all things. Thus, believing in Jesus also includes hope in God’s final renewal.
In summary, Peter’s message in Acts is built on a few simple convictions: Jesus was sent by God, unjustly killed, raised from the dead, exalted to God’s right hand, and made Lord and Messiah. Through Jesus, God offers forgiveness, the Holy Spirit, and the promise of a restored world. This is the faith Peter invites everyone to embrace.
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