Acts 2:22-41 with communion by Kevin Dean

Sermon OutlineThe Spirit filled message declares the life and death of Jesus (22-23)The Spirit filled message declares the resurrection of Jesus (24-32)The Spirit filled message declares the exaltation and reign of Jesus. (33-36)The Spirit filled message brings repentance and salvation (37-41) Jesus’ life, death, resurrection and exaltation is the Spirit filled message we proclaim. Home Group questions: Peter begins by grounding his message in real, verifiable events about Jesus’ life and death (vv. 22–23). Why is it important that the gospel is rooted in history rather than personal experience or feelings? (Luke 1:1-4; 2 Peter 1:16-20) How should this shape the way we share our faith today? (1 Peter 3:15)Why is it so important to teach our kids and youth not only what we believe, but why we believe it? (2 Timothy 3:14-15) How can we grow in our own understanding of the “why”? Peter holds together two truths that seem to stand in tension: God’s sovereign plan and human responsibility. Jesus was “delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God”, and yet “you crucified and killed him” (vv. 23). How do you hold these truths together, and why does it matter for the way we preach the gospel? In vv. 25–36, Peter shows how Jesus fulfils Old Testament expectation and is greater than what the Jewish audience expected. How does seeing Jesus as the fulfilment of Scripture strengthen confidence in Him? How might this shape the way we speak to people with different beliefs or worldviews? How does keeping the focus on the person and work of Jesus help us avoid a gospel that is reduced to 'avoiding judgement' or 'getting to heaven' without loving Christ Himself? Why is that distinction important? Why must the exaltation and lordship of Jesus be central to our gospel message? (Romans 10:9; 1 John 5:2) Peter says the promise is “for you and for your children and for all who are far off” (v. 39). What does this teach us about our evangelism?  (Romans 10:12–15) Send us Fan Mail