Be Still And Know

Acts 2:37-38 A sermon is worth nothing if it doesn’t lead to action. Peter’s sermon on the Day of Pentecost powerfully described the reason for Jesus’ death. In words that would have shocked many in his audience, he pointed out that they had been responsible for it. It was their sin that had driven Jesus to the cross just five weeks earlier. Having heard this, the people were deeply challenged and knew that they needed to take action. Peter’s response is interesting because of the way in which it speaks of the covenant partnership that God wants with us. There was something that the people needed to do, and then a response that God would make. Firstly, they needed to repent. They needed to recognise they had done wrong and head in a new direction. This would be powerfully symbolised by baptism and would show their clear intention to live a new life. The result would be that their sins would be forgiven, and they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. God loves to bless us, but he will only do so w