Acts 2:36-47

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

The Results of of the Holy Spirit Coming at Pentecost

Review the events of the day of Pentecost.
Where were these 3,000 new believers baptized?
The early Christians’ communal lifestyle should not be confused with communism. How is it distinct?
Should Christians live a communal lifestyle today? Maybe even live in Christian communes?
What principle should we learn from the Christian communal lifestyle?

Thousands of Jews from throughout the Roman Empire were gathered at the Temple in Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost. The Holy Spirit came upon the early Christians, and they began speaking in the native tongues of the worshippers. Then Peter stood and explained what was happening and gave his powerful sermon.
Biblical archaeology reveals that a great number of small pools (mikvaot) used for Jewish ritualistic cleansing have been excavated in the temple area. These pools were perfect for Christian baptism.
None of the early believers were forced to give up their property or possessions. It was completely voluntary. The aim of this communal lifestyle was not to make everyone equal, but rather to meet the needs of anyone who had a need.
If some Christians want to live this way, it is fine. The Bible is not against it. But the Bible is not teaching that Christians must live in a Christian commune.
As believers we should look around to see who is in need and do what we can to meet those needs.

Peter’s instructions in Acts 2:38 have often been used by those who say that you must be baptized in order to be saved. Review these four points in contrast: It would contradict other clear Scriptures, which teach that salvation is by grace through faith alone. (Romans 10:9;13; John 3:16) The Lord Jesus Christ never told His converts to be baptized. The thief on the cross who believed was not baptized and yet the Lord said He would be with Him in Paradise. The apostle Paul could never have written 1 Corinthians 1:14-17 if baptism was necessary for salvation.
Acts 2:42. Review the “big four” practices which characterized the early church: The apostles’ doctrine (teaching) Christian fellowship The breaking of bread (communion) Prayer A good church should emphasize these four practices. Is your church a balanced church? Are you as an individual believer living a balanced Christian life?

When the Jewish worshippers on the day of Pentecost realized they were sinners they asked, “What shall we do?” Peter’s response could be summarized, “Get saved!” If you are not a believer, God gives you the same response today, “Get saved!”

“Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” Acts 2:36
“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.” Acts 2:42
“And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:47