What should we do next?

I. The Question and Its Context

When posed with “What should we do next?” many have found themselves at pivotal moments, seeking clear direction for life. In Scripture, those who encountered miraculous events, the teachings of prophets, and ultimately the good news of the risen Christ asked a similar question. One notable instance appears when a crowd in Jerusalem, having just heard about Jesus’ fulfillment of divine prophecy, responded: “When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and asked Peter and the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’” (Acts 2:37). This question draws attention to immediate response, personal responsibility, and enduring faith.

II. Scriptural Call to Repentance and Belief

Acts 2:38 specifically answers that question: “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.’” Repentance involves turning from sin and toward God. Belief in the risen Christ stands at the center of this new direction. As John 3:16 declares: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

From a historical standpoint, ancient manuscripts such as portions of the Dead Sea Scrolls and later papyri affirm the consistent transmission of passages referring to repentance and faith in God’s promises. Archaeological findings, like the Pilate Stone discovered in Caesarea Maritima, align with the New Testament’s mention of Pontius Pilate (Luke 3:1), underscoring the Bible’s historical credibility in contexts where people sought to know what they should do under Roman rule and divine command alike.

III. Personal Dedication and Transformation

After turning from sin and placing trust in the Messiah, Scripture indicates the next steps include personal dedication to God. Romans 12:1 exhorts: “Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” Transformation by the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2) means embracing a life that reflects God’s holiness.

Various archaeological confirmations, such as the Ephesian inscriptions that reflect social divisions of the ancient world, lend contextual backdrop to Paul’s teachings. Believers living in pagan societies found that personal change—turning from idol worship to serving the living God—was both countercultural and life-altering. This same principle of dedicated living sets a strong example for what one should do next in modern contexts that also contain competing ideologies.

IV. Engaging in Prayer and Study of Scripture

Seeking the next steps should involve consistent prayer. The Gospels record that Jesus often withdrew to pray (Luke 5:16). Similarly, believers guided by the Holy Spirit are encouraged to “pray in the Spirit on all occasions” (Ephesians 6:18). In prayer, decisions and directions are submitted to God’s wisdom rather than human preference, opening the path for divine guidance.

Additionally, study of the Scriptures is central. Psalm 119:105 states: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” The textual transmission of the Bible—from the Masoretic texts to modern gleanings in the Dead Sea Scrolls—supports the trustworthiness of these exhortations. Scores of discovered manuscripts show remarkable consistency, reflecting a long heritage of texts preserved through centuries.

V. Connecting with a Faith Community

Belonging to a community of worshipers offers encouragement and accountability. Acts 2:42 notes the believers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Early Christian gatherings, confirmed by archaeological findings of simple home churches in locations like first-century Corinth, illustrate the tangible reality of believers meeting regularly for prayer, teaching, and mutual support. This continuity from the earliest records encourages modern application: one’s next step includes immersive participation with fellow believers for guidance and growth.

VI. Embracing a Life of Service and Mission

Serving others is integral to answering “What should we do next?” Jesus often set an example of compassion, as in feeding the hungry (Matthew 14:13–21) and healing the sick (Matthew 8:16–17). Modern documented accounts of inexplicable healings and interventions in mission fields across the globe echo New Testament miracles, suggesting that supernatural activity is not confined to antiquity.

Moreover, as echoed in Matthew 28:19, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…,” sharing the message of salvation remains a pressing calling. Historical writings, such as those by the first-century historian Josephus referencing Jesus (though with debated interpolations), align with the reality of Christ’s historical influence and the expansion of His movement. Where historical records indicate skepticism was met with unwavering testimonies of the resurrection, so too contemporary witness invites individuals to join in spreading the hope of the risen Christ.

VII. Living with Eternity in View

Understanding the brevity of earthly life shapes the practical response to “What should we do next?” James 4:14 asks, “What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” The timeline, often viewed as young and purposeful in design, reminds us that each day counts significantly toward eternal realities. Scientific observations of complexity in molecular biology and geological examples—seen by many as pointing to intelligent design—offer tangible reminders that life is neither random nor directionless. Thus, the next step is to live each moment in the context of divine purpose and eternal significance.

VIII. Conclusion and Ultimate Direction

In every generation, individuals have asked in light of God’s revelation, “What should we do next?” The Scriptures consistently guide toward repentance, faith in the resurrected Lord, the Spirit-led transformation of character, active prayer, study of the Word, fellowship with believers, loving service, and a mission-minded lifestyle. Converging lines of historical, archaeological, and scientific data provide supportive background for these instructions, showing that the Creator, who fashioned the universe, cares intimately about each person’s path.

Whether standing on the shores of Galilee or living in a modern metropolis, the divine invitation remains the same. Embracing that invitation allows us to walk forward in confidence, empowered by the Holy Spirit, assured of salvation, and focused on God’s glory in all that lies ahead.