Context and Background:

Peter's address to the crowd, often referred to as his Pentecost sermon, is a pivotal moment in the New Testament, marking the birth of the early Church. This event is recorded in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 2:14-41. It takes place during the Jewish festival of Pentecost, a time when Jews from various regions gathered in Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit had just descended upon the apostles, enabling them to speak in various tongues, which drew a large and curious crowd.

Content of the Address:

Peter, standing with the eleven apostles, raises his voice to address the crowd. He begins by refuting the accusation that the apostles are drunk, explaining that it is only the third hour of the day (Acts 2:15). Instead, he interprets the miraculous event as the fulfillment of the prophecy from the Book of Joel, where God promises to pour out His Spirit on all people (Acts 2:16-21).

Quoting Joel 2:28-32, Peter emphasizes that the outpouring of the Spirit is a sign of the last days, a time when God will perform wonders and offer salvation to all who call on His name. This sets the stage for Peter to introduce the central theme of his message: the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Proclamation of Jesus Christ:

Peter boldly proclaims Jesus of Nazareth as a man accredited by God through miracles, wonders, and signs, which the audience themselves knew (Acts 2:22). He asserts that Jesus was handed over by God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge, crucified, and killed by lawless men (Acts 2:23). However, God raised Him from the dead, freeing Him from the agony of death, as it was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him (Acts 2:24).

Peter supports his claim by referencing King David, quoting Psalm 16:8-11, where David speaks of the Holy One not seeing decay. Peter argues that David, being a prophet, foresaw and spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah (Acts 2:25-31). He declares that God has raised Jesus to life, and the apostles are all witnesses of this fact (Acts 2:32).

Exaltation and Call to Repentance:

Peter continues by explaining that Jesus, exalted to the right hand of God, has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit, which He has poured out, as evidenced by the events witnessed by the crowd (Acts 2:33). He further asserts that God has made Jesus, whom they crucified, both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36).

The message pierces the hearts of the listeners, prompting them to ask, "Brothers, what shall we do?" (Acts 2:37). Peter responds with a call to repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, promising that they too will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). He assures them that the promise is for them, their children, and all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call (Acts 2:39).

Impact and Significance:

Peter's address results in a profound response, with about three thousand people accepting his message and being baptized that day (Acts 2:41). This event marks the beginning of the Christian Church, as the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42).

Peter's sermon is significant for its clear articulation of the gospel message, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, the reality of Jesus' resurrection, and the necessity of repentance and faith. It underscores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the inclusive nature of God's salvation plan, extending to all who believe.