Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ. Peter taught that change begins with repentance—a genuine shift in thinking that acknowledges Jesus as both Lord and Messiah. Those who repented, believed, and were baptized in the name of Jesus received forgiveness of sins and the Holy Spirit. True change means responding to God’s call, receiving salvation, and living daily by faith, as this promise was for all generations.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Audio
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Acts 2:36-38, Acts 2:16-21, Isaiah 34:4, Ezekiel 32:7-8, Acts 2:40, Acts 2:22, Acts 2:23, Romans 8:28-30, 1 Peter 1:2, Luke 15:10, Acts 2:40, Luke 21:21-23, Matthew 26:63-64, Matthew 26:65-66, Matthew 24:34-35, Acts 2:42-47
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Book of Acts 2:36-38
36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Peter’s Message and the Crucial Question
We are reading from the King James Version tonight. If you do not have that version, it may be easier to follow along in your notes. The focus will be on verses 36, 37, and 38. These verses show that Peter tells the people that God made Jesus, whom they crucified, both Lord and Christ. When they heard this, they were deeply moved and asked Peter and the apostles, “What shall we do?” Peter told them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and then they would receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Last time, we stopped at the verse about being at the right hand. I feel there are a few key points I need to cover. There are also points I would like to touch on for the quiz. I plan to start right where we left off. If we do not get to everything, don’t worry about it for the quiz. Tonight, I want to focus on some crucial points, and I may not have time to revisit earlier points.
The Meaning of Acts 2 and Fulfillment of Prophecy
At this point in Acts, Peter is preaching his message. He explains that what they are seeing is not a drunken display. Instead, it is the fulfillment of the prophecy that Joel spoke about. Peter makes it clear that what is happening was foretold—a prophecy coming to pass through the work of the Holy Ghost.
Acts 2:16-21
16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;
17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:
20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come:
21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
You can go back and read Acts 2, verses 16-21. Peter says that what is happening is what the prophet Joel spoke about. God promised that in the last days He would pour out His Spirit on all people. This includes sons and daughters who would prophesy, young men who would see visions, and old men who would dream dreams.
God also promised to pour out His Spirit on His servants, both men and women. This means there is no more separation between male and female in ministry when God calls and anoints someone. If God calls you, you can step into your calling, no matter your gender.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Peter explains that there would be signs and wonders both in the heavens and on earth. Things like blood, fire, and smoke, the sun turning to darkness, and the moon to blood would happen before the day of the Lord. These signs echo what is written in the book of Revelation. The message from Joel and Revelation is the same: God will judge, but anyone who calls on the Lord will be saved.
Prophetic Language and National Judgment
To understand expressions like the sun turning to darkness and the moon to blood, we must employ prophetic language. This is known as “collapsing universe terminology” or “decreation.” In biblical prophecy, it often refers to the end or collapse of a society or nation, rather than literal cosmic destruction. This language is used frequently in the Old Testament to signal the downfall of nations. I have some references for you.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Isaiah 13:10
10 For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine.
Isaiah said the stars and sun would stop shining, and the moon would not give light. These words were used when he prophesied against Babylon and other nations. These events did not happen physically. The sun and stars did not actually stop shining. The heavens did not roll up like a scroll. However, each time Isaiah prophesied in this manner, the nation being judged came to an end. The fall was not in the sky, but in the life of the nation. So, the prophetic language meant the end of those nations.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Isaiah 34:4
4 And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree.
Ezekiel 32:7-8
7 And when I shall put thee out, I will cover the heaven, and make the stars thereof dark; I will cover the sun with a cloud, and the moon shall not give her light.
8 All the bright lights of heaven will I make dark over thee, and set darkness upon thy land, saith the Lord GOD.
These Old Testament prophecies about falling stars and a darkened sky were spoken against nations like Tyre, Zidon, and Babylon. The stars did not really fall, and the sky did not roll up. The moon kept giving its light. The prophecies were not literal. Whenever these words were used, it meant the end of a nation. The nation itself stopped existing.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
There was also a day when Sodom and Gomorrah ended. That was their termination day. Many people think Israel has always existed, but it did not. In AD 70, the nation of Israel came to an end. In 1948, the people called themselves a nation again. They have not returned to Mosaic worship. They no longer offer animal sacrifices. The old system has not been restored.
Peter is saying the last days are starting. A significant sign is God pouring out His Spirit. Peter calls this the beginning of the end. This is the start of something new. He speaks to the people and tells them to save themselves from a wicked and corrupt generation. Peter describes this as the “termination generation.” There will not be literal falling stars or a sky rolling up. Instead, these are signs of a society or a nation coming to an end.
When scripture speaks of the moon turning dark, or stars falling, it points to a nation’s collapse. If we read Revelation with this in mind, we will see that the book pictures the same kind of judgment. John’s prophecy in Revelation lines up with what Peter is saying. Jesus warned that the current generation would see these events come to pass. Peter stresses that these words were intended for that generation, not for people of a distant future.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Matthew Henry also wrote about this. He explains that such language in the Bible speaks of the end or judgment of a nation. It is not about physical stars and moons but about real change, judgment, and the end of an age. Peter teaches that in the last days, things will change significantly. God will pour out His Spirit. Peter says the prophecy is being fulfilled right before their eyes. He calls this the start of the end—the beginning of the last generation. He urges people to save themselves from this corrupt time.
This is a quote from Matthew Henry.
“And this turning of the sun into darkness and the moon into blood bespeaks the desolation of their government, civil and sacred, and the extinguishing of all their lights.”
Peter’s message is not new. It was taught before dispensationalism began in the 1850s with Darby, Schofield, and others. Matthew Henry lived just before that shift in teaching. What Peter is saying here is direct and straightforward. He does not preach about the blood of Christ or eternal life. Instead, Peter urges people to turn to Jesus to save their literal lives. He is not focused on going to heaven, but on survival in this generation.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Acts 2:40
40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
Save Yourselves from a Wicked Generation
Peter’s message in Acts 2:40 is for his own generation. He says, “Save yourselves from this untoward generation.” He means perverse and wicked people. Peter warns that judgment is coming to them soon. In AD 66, Roman armies invaded Judea. By AD 70, Titus destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. This happened just as Peter and Jesus predicted. According to Matthew Henry’s commentary, not one Christian died in this siege. The reference can be found on page 17, footnote 5, in volume 6.
The Practical Warning and the Survival of Christians
All the Christians were spared because they followed Jesus’ warning. He told them to leave Jerusalem when they saw it surrounded by armies. Jesus instructed them to flee to the mountains and not go back for their belongings. He warned them not to wait, not to be caught on the rooftop, and hoped it wouldn’t be winter or a difficult time for those with children. This was not about the rapture. Jesus’ instructions were practical, giving them a way to avoid danger.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Luke 21:21-23
21 Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto.
22 For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.
23 But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.
When Jerusalem was invaded, believers escaped as Jesus had said in Luke 21:22. Peter’s preaching to that generation was meant to save their physical lives, not only their souls or about going to heaven when they die. Salvation means more than eternal life. The kingdom of heaven is within us and also at hand. People can experience God’s kingdom now by applying his teachings. Peter says in verse 21 that anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Acts 2:21
21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Salvation: Not Just Eternal Life
Salvation is much more than just going to heaven when you die. Sometimes, it means your actual, physical life is saved. For example, some people genuinely believe that coming to the Lord protected them from real dangers. Without salvation, their lifestyle or choices might have led to their death. This change is not just spiritual but can be practical and life-altering.
Accepting Jesus changes destiny for the believer and those around them. The early Christians’ decision to follow Jesus actually saved their lives and the lives of their families in AD 70. When people turn to Jesus, it affects not just them but also their children, grandchildren, and future generations. Salvation is powerful because it can influence everyone connected to the believer, both now and in years to come.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Acts 2:22
22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:
Over a million Jews died, and more than 95,000 were taken as slaves throughout the Roman Empire. These events actually happened in history.
Peter’s Two-Part Sermon
Peter’s message in Acts 2 is divided into two clear parts. At first, he spoke directly to the people of Jerusalem and Judea, urging them to listen and save their lives. Then, he expanded his message to include all of Israel, pointing everyone’s attention to Jesus of Nazareth.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Jesus—Approved by God Through Miracles
Peter told the crowd that God approved Jesus through miracles, wonders, and signs. These miracles were performed in their very midst, and Peter challenged the people to disprove what they themselves had witnessed. He reminded them that they had watched Jesus do these things, and they could not deny it. However, even when miracles happen in front of people, it does not guarantee that they will follow God or his messengers. Peter proved Jesus was sent by God but admitted that people may still reject him, just as they did Jesus.
Acts 2:23
23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Wicked Hands and God’s Foreknowledge
Peter says that God’s plan and foreknowledge delivered Jesus. Then he addresses the men of Israel directly. He reminds them that it was their “wicked hands” that took Jesus and killed him. Peter makes it clear that he is talking about those present at that time, not future generations. In Revelation 1:7, John writes that Jesus will return and be seen by those who pierced him—the very same generation responsible for his death.
Peter urges them not to think God ignores such a terrible act. The crucifixion was the most horrendous crime humanity ever committed, and God does not overlook it. Salvation, Peter says, means saving themselves from the fate of that generation. God knew this would happen long ago, through his foreknowledge and divine counsel. Scripture reveals that God understood the struggle between good and evil from the beginning, as seen in the book of Genesis. God’s foreknowledge means He is never surprised; He always knows what will happen because He is God.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
The Mystery of Foreknowledge
God exists outside of time and sees everything as if it has already happened. Humans are limited by time, but God is not. The Bible teaches that God’s foreknowledge allows him to reveal future events. For instance, Isaiah predicted a virgin would conceive and that the Messiah would be beaten and rejected. Isaiah knew these things because God gave him revelation through foreknowledge.
True prophecy originates from God’s foreknowledge. If a prophecy is genuine, it has already happened in God’s view. There cannot be genuine prophecies that turn out false, because God has already seen the event. While this concept is difficult to comprehend fully, the Scriptures teach that God determines events through His foreknowledge and allows believers to glimpse this truth.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Romans 8:28-30
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Predestination and the Goodness of God
Romans 8:28 teaches that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to his purpose. This happens because of God’s foreknowledge. If God foreknew that someone would serve and love Him, He had already prepared everything to work out for their good. This means believers can trust that things will work out well in their lives because God has worked it together beforehand.
Paul explains that those whom God foreknew are also predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ. Those predestined are called justified and glorified. It is incredible to think that God already knew who would serve Him and planned blessings for them. Just as the cross worked out for good, God will see that believers’ lives do, too. Prophecy works the same way: true prophecy comes from God’s foreknowledge, so it must be fulfilled. God determines what will happen, just as He determined the events surrounding Christ by His foreknowledge.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
1 Peter 1:2
2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
First Peter 1:2 explains that God chooses believers based on his foreknowledge. This happens through the work of the Spirit, leading to obedience and the sprinkling of Jesus’ blood. Peter is speaking directly to the people of Israel, reminding them that they used wicked hands to crucify and kill Jesus. Their actions went beyond crucifixion; they were responsible for his death through their wickedness.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Peter’s Teaching: Resurrection and the Throne
Peter goes on to preach about David. God made promises to David about resurrection and the throne. Peter points out that David is still in the tomb, but Jesus, who came from David’s lineage, is not. Jesus is resurrected and now seated at God’s right hand. Peter emphasizes that everyone present is a witness to the resurrection of Jesus, confirming that God’s promise to David has been fulfilled in Christ.
Jesus Exalted at the Right Hand of God
Peter explains that because God raised Jesus from the dead, Jesus is now exalted at the right hand of God. He has received the promise of the Holy Ghost from the Father, and this power is now shown to all through what they see and hear. Peter makes it clear that everyone is witnessing this fulfillment.
David, on the other hand, remains in the tomb and has not yet ascended into heaven. Peter reminds everyone that Scripture says, “The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.” The phrase “right hand” is more than a physical position. In Scripture, being at God’s right hand means having power and authority. Peter stresses the importance of understanding this, because it shows what Jesus is doing now—he is exercising divine authority and power.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
The Meaning of the Right Hand
Scripture shows that the right hand of God represents power and authority. Exodus 15 says God’s right hand is glorious in power and destroys enemies. Psalm 21 and Psalm 98 highlight that the right hand brings victory and overcomes those who hate God. When Peter teaches that Jesus is seated at God’s right hand, it means Jesus has this powerful authority and is actively bringing about God’s kingdom.
Jesus is not idle at the right hand—he exercises power and fulfills his role with great authority. Peter’s message is that Jesus is currently seated at the right hand of God, ruling and winning victories. This is a central biblical doctrine, emphasizing that Jesus’ position at the right hand is about active reign and triumph, as supported by multiple passages throughout Scripture.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Jesus’ Claim Before the High Priest
When the high priest questioned Jesus about being the Son of God, Jesus confirmed it. Jesus then said that the high priest would next see him coming on the clouds at the right hand of God. This statement emphasized Jesus’ authority and power. The high priest did not laugh or question what it meant to sit at God’s right hand. This moment is crucial for understanding proper biblical doctrine because it shows how seriously the high priest took Jesus’ claim to divine authority and power.
Matthew 26:63-64
63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Watch what the high priest did.
Matthew 26:65-66
65 Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.
66 What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.
This was when the high priest determined to crucify Christ. When Jesus said he would come in the clouds and judge, the people understood the meaning. In their tradition, clouds represented judgment, and the right hand meant power and authority. Jesus told the high priest that judgment would come soon, not thousands of years in the future. It happened in their generation, just as Jesus said.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Both Lord and Christ: Jesus’ Titles
The right hand of God had profound significance for those listening. They understood that it meant Jesus had the authority to judge and rule. Acts 2:36 confirms that Jesus, whom they crucified, is now both Lord and Christ. He is seated at the right hand of God, exercising divine power and authority over all creation.
Notice the terminology. Both Lord and Christ. What does Christ mean? King? Messiah? What does the Lord mean? King, Messiah of Israel, but Lord of all. Lord of the world. Lord of everything. Both Lord and Christ.
Acts 2:37
37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
After Peter spoke, the crowd heard that Jesus is both Lord and Christ. They learned that Jesus is the one David spoke about—who would rise from the dead and not be left to decay in the grave. They heard that Jesus ascended to heaven, sits at the right hand of God with authority, and is coming in judgment, just as Joel had prophesied. Peter’s message was clear: “lights out” was coming for their generation.
“What Shall We Do?”—Response to Conviction
The people were deeply moved and asked, “What shall we do?” They wanted to know how to respond and avoid the coming judgment. This response is typical today—many are told to read the Bible, pray the sinner’s prayer, or follow basic religious activities. But Peter gave them a direct answer that truly worked for their situation. The urgency in their hearts came from realizing the seriousness of the message, and Peter showed them how to respond.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Acts 2:38
38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Peter told the crowd to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. He did not ask them to be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, but specifically in Jesus’ name. This baptism was for the remission of their sins. There is a question about how baptism relates to forgiveness, but Peter said this is what they must do. The early church learned and grew from its own experiences and mistakes, which helps believers today understand what is needed.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Peter’s Answer: Three Specifics for Conversion
Peter’s instructions included three main actions: repent, be baptized in Jesus’ name, and receive the Holy Ghost. These three steps appear each time someone comes to Christ in the book of Acts. The order may vary, but they are always present in genuine conversion. Repentance and proper baptism lead to receiving the Holy Spirit, which is a vital part of the message Peter shared.
True Repentance: Changing Your Mind
Peter’s first instruction was to repent, and this was crucial. Repentance does not mean crying at an altar or showing emotion. It means to change your mind, adjusting your thinking, and how you view things. The Greek word for repent means precisely that—changing one’s mind for the better.
Peter told religious Jews to repent because they needed to move from old beliefs to a new understanding. They followed the Mosaic covenant and would have been baptized in the name of Jehovah. Now, Peter called them to realize Christ had already come, been raised, and was seated at God’s right hand. Many people today still wait for Christ or His kingdom, but true repentance means understanding and accepting that His work is already complete.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
True repentance comes from understanding that Jesus is the Messiah, recognizing that the great tribulation has occurred, and believing that He gives abundant life. When people embrace these truths and start thinking correctly, they experience genuine repentance. Sin is simply the result of wrong thinking and misguided beliefs. We understand that things such as adultery, overeating, and overdrinking are all caused by thinking incorrectly.
True Repentance: Changing Your Mind
Repentance does not require tears or sorrow, although some may cry. It is not about emotional displays but about changing the mind. Repentance should be a joyful experience, bringing gladness as beliefs and thoughts align with God’s truth.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Luke 15:10
10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
Luke 15:10 teaches that there is joy in the presence of the angels of God when a sinner repents. The joy described is not just emotional happiness but deep gladness because a person has turned away from destructive behavior and will now be blessed. Repentance means changing your way of thinking—shifting from old covenant ideas to the new. It means recognizing that Christ has come and is reigning right now, not waiting for some future moment.
Baptism in the Name of Jesus
After repentance, the next step is baptism in the name of Jesus Christ. Peter instructed that everyone should be baptized this way. Baptism is not just a religious ritual; it is for the remission of sins. This act signifies a real change and marks the departure from the old life to the new one, offered through Jesus.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Jesus instructed in Matthew 28 to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. However, in the Book of Acts and throughout scripture, no record exists of anyone being baptized using that formula. Instead, everyone was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, the name of the Lord Jesus, or simply the name of Jesus. The disciples were not being disobedient; this was the consistent practice recorded in the early church.
Covenant Change and the Power of Jesus’ Name
The name carried deep meaning for the early believers. Changing one’s name signified entering a new covenant, much like how marrying into a family changes one’s last name. Jews who transitioned from the old to the new covenant adopted the name of Jesus, symbolizing their new relationship with God. Scripture says Jesus’ name is exalted above every name, emphasizing the significance and authority of being baptized in his name.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Name Above All Names
The name of Jesus Christ is above every other name in heaven, on earth, or under the earth. There is nothing greater to be baptized into or to belong to than Jesus. His name represents the highest authority and the most incredible privilege anyone can have. This is why baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is so vital in the new covenant.
In the Old Covenant, believers were baptized into the name of Jehovah. In the new covenant, baptism is in the name of Jesus Christ. This represents a true shift in relationship and belonging. Although Scripture makes this clear, confusion and opposition still exist; however, the teaching remains unchanged: baptism in Jesus’ name marks entrance into the new covenant and the family of God.
Philippians 2:9 says, Wherefore God hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name. I’m not going to read them, but Acts 8:16, Acts 10:48, Acts 19:5, Colossians 1:13. All of those are speaking about the name you’re baptized in.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Rebaptism and Remission of Sins
Paul asked the Corinthians if they had been baptized in Paul’s name, making it clear that baptism should only be in the name of Christ. This leads to questions about rebaptism if someone was baptized incorrectly or in the wrong name. Paul himself rebaptized people who had been baptized wrongly, so there is scriptural support for rebaptism. Baptism should produce real change, and it is for the remission of sins.
Release from Bondage and Forgiveness
Remission of sins has two primary meanings. First, it brings release from bondage or imprisonment, offering a life of freedom not previously experienced. Baptism releases believers from every form of bondage, whether spiritual or religious. Second, it means forgiveness or pardon of sins, letting them go completely as if they were never committed. This kind of freedom and forgiveness happens to those who repent and are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
It is essential to be baptized correctly. While some believe blessings can come from baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Scripture provides certainty with baptism in Jesus’ name. When someone repents, renews their mind, and is appropriately baptized, they are freed from bondage and their sins are forgiven as if they never happened.
Receiving the Holy Ghost: A Promised Gift
Once this freedom is received, the following promise is the gift of the Holy Ghost. The process is not complicated: repent, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and then receive the Holy Ghost. Understanding and following the biblical order leads people to truly desire this experience, rather than treating it as a ritual or obligation.
Acts 2:39
39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
The Scope of the Promise
Verse 39 is very reassuring. Peter explains exactly who can receive the promise of the Holy Ghost. He says the promise is for those who repent and are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. First, it is for the people he was addressing directly. Second, it is for their children—meaning the next generation. Third, it is for all who are far off, which can mean those distant in location or in time. The final phrase, “as many as the Lord our God shall call,” makes it clear that anyone called by God can receive this promise.
The promise of the Holy Ghost is not limited to one group or moment. It extends to all believers and their families through the ages. This truth brings hope and assurance. Even in personal life, this promise is evident when generations in a family receive the Holy Ghost after coming into the kingdom. The promise is real and available to all who properly repent and are baptized—no one can be excluded except by resisting or misunderstanding this gift.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Our son, Lance, received the baptism of the Holy Ghost when he was in grammar school. I remember him telling us that he would go to school, and he would tell kids that he was baptized in the Holy Ghost. They wanted to hear him. He would take them off to the side of the building and speak in tongues for them.
I am so glad that my children have received the Holy Ghost. I am pleased they grew up with the Holy Ghost. I’m so happy they didn’t have all that religious stuff to fight through that I had to. They just received it. They repented correctly, were baptized right, received the Holy Ghost, and they just grew in the Lord.
The promise is for everyone called by the Lord. False teaching and wrong thinking have kept many from receiving the Holy Ghost. This affects lives, families, and homes. If God calls a person, they can have this promise.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Acts 2:40-41
40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Warnings to That Generation
Peter urged the crowd to save themselves from a crooked and perverse generation. He testified and exhorted with many words. Those who gladly received his message were baptized, and about 3,000 were added to their number that day. Receiving the word with gladness led to immediate action and growth in the early church.
Judgment on “This Generation”
Jesus and John the Baptist warned that particular generation many times. There are frequent warnings throughout the gospels. In Matthew 12:41-45, Jesus said that the men of Nineveh and the queen of the south would rise in judgment against that generation. They would condemn it because they had repented and sought wisdom, while a greater one—Jesus—was present.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Many verses speak about the judgment that’s going to come upon that generation. Even those wicked generations of Sodom and those wicked generations of Nineveh, those wicked generations are going to come and rise up in judgment against the wicked generation that Jesus came and crucified him. If we think that for one minute that God just blinked at them crucifying Christ, His son, we don’t know our God. He judged that wicked generation.
Matthew 24:34-35
34 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Jesus is referring to the great tribulation. Verily, I say unto you, this generation shall not pass till all these things be fulfilled. What things? What was he talking about in Matthew 24? The great tribulation. And that great tribulation came upon that generation, and it was lights out just as Peter said, Save yourselves from untoward generations.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Acts 2:42-47
42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
The Church’s Daily Life and Four Steadfast Practices
The early believers continued steadfastly in four practices: the apostles’ doctrine, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. Continuing steadfastly means they never stopped and did these things all the time.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Steadfast in Apostles’ Doctrine
The first priority was holding to the Apostles’ doctrine. This was important because many different doctrines existed even back then, just as they do today.
Paul warned the Corinthians about false apostles and deceptive workers who pretended to be ministers of Christ. Satan himself disguises himself as an angel of light, and some of his ministers do the same, calling themselves ministers of righteousness. Only by staying faithful to the Apostles’ doctrine could believers avoid such deception and remain true in their faith.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Steadfast in Fellowship
The second thing the early church stayed steadfast in was fellowship. Fellowship is vital for believers. According to 1 John 1:7, fellowship activates the blood of Jesus Christ. The blood of Jesus is always available, but it is not always activated in a believer’s life. Communion activates the blood, and so does fellowship among believers.
Walking in the light and sharing fellowship helps cleanse believers of their spiritual past. Being with others who worship, praise, and follow Christ encourages repentance and brings a more profound, positive change. The blood of Jesus washes believers from their old ways and helps them move forward in faith through the power of fellowship.
It is essential to be around people who are living for God. Spending time with those who do not follow God can have a negative influence. Fellowship with other believers fosters change and spiritual growth, whereas the wrong company can hinder progress and undermine good intentions. John encourages believers to have fellowship with those who have fellowship with the Father, so the blood of Jesus Christ washes them from sin as they grow together.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
Breaking of Bread
The third thing the early church did was breaking of bread. This meant sharing meals together and spending time in community. Eating together fostered close relationships and included communion as part of their lifestyle. Jesus established communion during a meal, showing its importance. When believers gather, they should consider breaking bread and remembering Christ, making it part of their fellowship rather than only praying before eating.
Steadfast in Prayers
The last practice the early believers continued in was prayers plural. They prayed in various ways, both in their understanding and in the Spirit. Paul taught that believers should pray in the Spirit and with their minds. Praying in tongues and praying when unsure of what to say are both included. They prayed directly to God and didn’t limit themselves to one type of prayer.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3: How to Change Your Mind for Christ
There were four main things the early church devoted themselves to: the Apostles’ doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. They did each of these consistently and faithfully, helping them grow in faith and unity as a community of believers.
Final Blessing
Thank you for joining us for this study. Allow me to bless you. The LORD bless you and keep you. The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you, and the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 3 Audio
Other Related Sermons:
Book of Acts Series (this is a previous Acts study)
Acts Chapter 2 Part 1 Audio
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