How Shall They, Part 2 : Opportunity Taken

The sermon presents a powerful exposition of Acts 3–4, illustrating the transformative power of the Gospel through the healing of a lifelong lame man, which serves as a vivid metaphor for humanity's fallen condition—born in sin, dependent on external grace, and incapable of self-redemption. Peter seizes the divine opportunity to proclaim Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah, emphasizing His crucifixion, resurrection, and divine fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, while calling the people to repentance and faith. Despite opposition from religious authorities who reject the resurrection and arrest the apostles, the message prevails, resulting in the conversion of about 5,000 men, demonstrating that God's power is not thwarted by human resistance. The central theme underscores the necessity of personal response to the Gospel: recognizing one's spiritual helplessness, embracing Christ's finished work, and boldly sharing the message in obedience to God's command. Ultimately, the narrative affirms that salvation is entirely of God, rooted in Christ's atoning sacrifice and resurrection, and made effective through the Holy Spirit's empowerment in the lives of believers.