And Peter said to them, “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. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” Acts 2:38-39, ESV

 

This invitation to conversion issued by the apostle Peter, was directed to every Jew attending the feast of Pentecost who witnessed the supernatural outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Physical signs filled the room where the disciples gathered: “… a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:2-4, KJV)

 

These Spirit-filled people were speaking in languages (tongues) they did not know or understand themselves! The religious Jews from other nations present at this occasion were left confounded and wide-eyed by this phenomenon. How was it possible that each and every one could hear the message of the wonderful works of God in his own language? And that straight from the mouths of Jerusalem natives! (Acts 2:11)

 

Led by the Holy Spirit, Peter provided perspective on this matter. What they had heard and seen happening before them was the fulfilment of the words of God to Joel, the Old Testament prophet: “… I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: …” (Acts 2:17) Really, on all people? Yes! The Word teaches that sons and daughters, servants and handmaidens shall prophesy, young men shall see visions and old man dream dreams. (Acts 2:17,18) In other words, those individuals who took this Scripture verse seriously: “… that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Acts 2:21) A promise still valid in 2022. Can you see how the Lord still positions believers to be part of his plan for the world?

 

Peter appealed, “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.” (Acts 2:38) What was the outcome of this event? Approximately 3 000 people were added to their number that day. (Acts 2:41, ESV)

 

But it does not end here! This promise is also for “your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” (Acts 2:39). Can you see how the Lord brings it about that people always stay part of his plan? Even now, in 2022. And until the day of his return to earth when every eye will see him! One question though: Are you going to obey Jesus’ command to “Go and Tell” as stated in Matthew 28:19? “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” His promise to his co-workers: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20b, ESV)

 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for using people to fulfil your master plan for mankind Thank you that the Holy Spirit in us enables us to be your co-workers. Help us to adhere to Matthew 28:19. Amen