Focal Passage: Acts 2:22-24, 32-41
“Why?” is a question many of us as parents grow tired of hearing.
Once you step onto that never-ending rollercoaster, it can be difficult to get off. In contrast, asking why isn’t always enjoyable, but knowing why is deeply satisfying. Simon Sinek, in his book Start With Why, writes, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” In our verses today, Peter gives us both the what and the why.
Peter tells those listening to his sermon what Jesus has done (vv. 22–24). He reminds them of the miracles Jesus performed in their presence.
He explains that Jesus’ crucifixion was part of God’s sovereign plan, and he does not shy away from their responsibility in it.
Brandon Johns
They were the ones who handed Jesus over to be killed. Yet Peter also proclaims that God raised Him up — death could not hold Him. Jesus conquered the grave.
This passage gives us a beautiful picture of God’s sovereignty alongside human responsibility. We can trust God to accomplish everything He purposes to do, and yet He chooses to work through people to accomplish His plans.
Those who delivered Jesus were guilty, and yet Jesus Himself said that no one takes His life from Him — He lays it down willingly (John 10:18).
The main point — the why — is this: Jesus died on the cross according to God’s plan and rose from the dead to make a way for us to have eternal life. This truth was Peter’s motivation for preaching, and it should be our motivation for living.
We trust in a risen Savior who revealed Himself to many witnesses after His resurrection. We trust in a risen Savior who now sits in a place of honor at the right hand of God.
We trust in a risen Savior who fulfills every prophecy and covenant found in Scripture. We trust in a risen Savior who is both Lord and Messiah.
When the people heard Peter’s words, they were compelled to respond.
They understood why Jesus did what He did, and they wanted to know what they should do next.
Peter’s answer was clear: repent and be baptized. Repentance involves a change of mind and a change in direction — turning our lives toward Jesus. Baptism is the outward, physical expression of that inward change. Repentance is turning away from sin; baptism demonstrates turning to Christ.
As Christians, this should be our daily focus. We are called to turn from sin through the power of the Holy Spirit and turn toward Christ.
We cannot do either on our own. We must depend on the Spirit to guide and direct us each day.
We also must place ourselves in a posture to hear from the Lord, with hearts that are repentant and open to His leading.
May we always be thankful that Jesus saves! B&R
