Acts 2:40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort.

 

For the past several days we have dug deep into the inaugural message of the Church given by Peter on the Day of Pentecost. The actual length of the sermon, we do not know but we have been given that which the Holy Spirit deemed necessary for us to receive. This is probably the case throughout the whole Bible but we know it to be so here because Luke wrote: And with many other words did he testify and exhort. (Acts 2:40)

 

Peter was addressing a huge crowd of unbelieving Jews. Many of them were Pharisees and Sadducees but they all rejected Christ and the fact that He was their Messiah. Peter told them in no uncertain terms that they crucified their own Messiah.

 

Although Peter reminded them of what they had done, he exhorted them at the same time. He told them of the Salvation that was available to them regardless of what they had done in the past. He explained the Power of the shed Blood of Christ on the Cross. This is a perfect example of the Work of the Holy Spirit to use people to bring others to Salvation.

 

There are many Preachers and Teachers in the “church world” today who are very good at exhorting and encouraging people. These folks are very good motivational speakers but few truly Preach the Word of God which will bring conviction to the hearts of their listeners as Peter did on the Day of Pentecost.

 

Church buildings with motivational speakers are filled to capacity every week. The people long to hear an encouraging word and receive a pat on the back. No matter their sinful lifestyle, they hear the speaker say, “You are doing well. Keep up the good work.” These speakers will answer for their words. My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. (James 3:1)

 

On the other hand, Churches with truly Called Preachers and Teachers, who tell the Truth of the Saving Grace of Jesus Christ, have few in attendance. The Word of God tells us that it will be this way in the Last Days. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers. (2 Timothy 4:3)

 

As truly Called Preachers and Teachers, we must preach sound doctrine. It still works today to bring people to Salvation. Many will not listen because they have itching ears but those that do hear the Truth of the Gospel of Christ will be Saved! Hallelujah!

 

 

The True Gospel will…...….turn the tide

 

The True will make you free.         Doreen

 

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