Peter

November 2

Acts 2:14, 37-47

The Church is born

A large crowd gathered around the house where the Holy Spirit had come down in an amazing way and filled the apostles with power.

Peter, who was filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly started to preach to the crowd, telling them what the prophet Joel said: “God will pour out His Spirit on everyone.”

When the people heard Peter’s words, they felt guilty about their sin and asked, “What should we do?”

Peter replied, “Turn from sin and be baptized in the name of Jesus. Then God will forgive you and fill you with the Holy Spirit.”

Many believed and were baptized, and about three thousand people were added to the Church that day. They started to meet in groups; they shared whatever they owned, and they worshiped in the Temple area daily.

How and when did the Church begin?

While the disciples were gathered in a room, not knowing what would happen next, it was as though the Lord was busy forming the Church; preparing it to be born.

Then, on the day the Holy Spirit came down, the disciples took to the streets to share the message of Jesus. Immediately, the Church started to grow as thousands were saved. Suddenly, the newborn Church became active, grew, and had a purpose. This is what happened:

• They met for worship, prayer, and breaking of bread (communion).

• They eagerly listened to the apostles’ teaching.

• They shared what they owned and gave money to the poor.

• They used their spiritual gifts, and miracles happened.

As they preached the Word of God, many turned from their sin and were saved. Those who were saved joined the group of believers, and the living Church grew.

Verse for today

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Matthew 16:18