The Power of the Holy Spirit: Peter’s Bold Message at Pentecost

 Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who are in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say.”

Acts 2:14

Dear Friends,

When you’re given an important job, you take it seriously. And when you’re entrusted with an important message, especially one that comes from Jesus Himself, you must deliver it faithfully to those who need to hear it. This is done through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

A Lesson From the Auction Block

At our family auctions, we often have moments when messages need to be relayed quickly. In the early days, we recorded every sale by hand – the merchandise description, sale price, and buyer number – on paper sheets. Once a sheet was full, we sent it to the auction office so payments could be recorded and collected.

We didn’t hand these important papers to just anyone. Only someone trustworthy could carry them safely. Many times, that messenger was one of our children. We knew they would take the job seriously because they had our full confidence and authority to deliver the message promptly.

In a similar way, Jesus gave His disciples a vital message and the authority to deliver it. Through the gift of the Holy Spirit, they were empowered to testify of His death and resurrection – the message that brings salvation to the world.

Peter’s Message to the Multitude

On the day of Pentecost, Jerusalem was filled with God-fearing Jews from many nations. When they heard the commotion of the Spirit’s coming, they rushed to see what was happening. The crowd was astonished to hear the Apostles speaking in their own languages. Confused, some even accused them of being drunk.

But Peter, filled with the Spirit, stood up boldly. He explained that what they were witnessing was the fulfillment of prophecy. Quoting the prophet Joel, Peter revealed that God was pouring out His Spirit and that everyone who called on the name of the Lord would be saved.

Jesus: The Promised Messiah

Peter reminded them that Jesus of Nazareth, whom they had crucified, was the very one accredited by God through miracles, wonders, and signs. But death could not hold Him. God raised Him from the dead, just as David had foretold: “You will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay.”

Peter explained that David’s prophecy pointed not to himself but to Jesus. David’s tomb still stood in Jerusalem, but Jesus’ tomb was empty. The Apostles were eyewitnesses of His resurrection. Now exalted to God’s right hand, Jesus had sent the promised Holy Spirit – proof that He is both Lord and Christ.

Hearts Transformed by the Power of the Holy Spirit

The Spirit of God moved among the listeners. Instead of responding with anger or disbelief, they were cut to the heart and asked, “What shall we do?”

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This promise, he said, was not only for them but for their children, and for all whom the Lord would call.

That day, about three thousand people believed and were baptized. What an incredible demonstration of the power of the Holy Spirit!

Our Message Today

We, too, are entrusted with this same message of salvation – salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. But just like Peter, we cannot do it in our own strength. The Holy Spirit empowers our words, transforms hearts, and draws people to God through prayer and the truth of His Word.

If God has saved you, you have a responsibility to tell others what He has done. Take your assignment seriously. Share the good news wherever you go, and watch in awe as the Holy Spirit works through you to bring others to Christ.

Love,

Mama

If this message encourages you, take a moment to share it with someone who needs to hear that salvation is found in Jesus. And if you’d like to receive more devotionals like this one, subscribe to my newsletter or send me a message on my Contact Page — I’d love to hear how God is working in your life!