Imitating Jesus
The Supremacy of Jesus Christ
Acts 2:37-42
The Message
37 Cut to the quick, those who were there listening asked Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers! Brothers! So now what do we do?”
38-39 Peter said, “Change your life. Turn to God and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, so your sins are forgiven. Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is targeted to you and your children, but also to all who are far away—whomever, in fact, our Master God invites.”
40 He went on in this vein for a long time, urging them over and over, “Get out while you can; get out of this sick and stupid culture!”
41-42 That day about three thousand took him at his word, were baptized and were signed up. They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers.
38-39 Peter said, “Change your life. Turn to God and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, so your sins are forgiven. Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is targeted to you and your children, but also to all who are far away—whomever, in fact, our Master God invites.”
40 He went on in this vein for a long time, urging them over and over, “Get out while you can; get out of this sick and stupid culture!”
41-42 That day about three thousand took him at his word, were baptized and were signed up. They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers.
For Reflection
What
more do you need to know to act upon your faith? In Jesus day the
culture was dominated by injustice from the Jewish leaders and Roman
conquerors. Wars among the rulers, violent skirmishes among
insurrectionists, extreme poverty, vile punishments to keep the
conquered people in line and deep hatred among the neighboring cultures
were commonplace.
It is no wonder Peter counseled to get away from this
"sick and stupid culture." Is it so different today? As Christians we
are saved, free to work for justice and peace both individually and as a
member of the Kingdom of God.
Pray
that
you will not hesitate to heed Gods call to do His work. Pray that you
will live fully in the community of the faithful, share so that no one
is wanting for those things basic to human existence, sanctuary, food,
shelter, clothing, hope and a sense of self-worth. Pray for the wisdom
and courage to heed the call of God.
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