Peter’s sermon in Acts 2:14-36 is a significant part of the New Testament, marking the beginning of the church’s public ministry. Here’s a breakdown of the sermon:
1. Introduction (Acts 2:14-15): Peter begins by addressing the crowd that had gathered during the Pentecost. He refutes the idea that the disciples were drunk, as it was only the third hour of the day (about 9 AM).
2. Prophecy of Joel (Acts 2:16-21): Peter explains that the events they are witnessing were prophesied by Joel. He quotes Joel 2:28-32, emphasizing that God will pour out His Spirit in the last days, leading to prophetic visions and signs.
3. Jesus of Nazareth (Acts 2:22-24): Peter introduces Jesus of Nazareth, a man accredited by God through miracles, wonders, and signs. He states that Jesus was crucified and killed by lawless men but was raised by God, freeing Him from the agony of death.
4. Reference to David’s Psalm (Acts 2:25-28): Peter quotes Psalm 16:8-11, showing that King David spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, who would not be abandoned to the realm of the dead.
5. David’s Tomb (Acts 2:29-31): He points out that David died and was buried, and his tomb is still there. Thus, David was speaking prophetically about the resurrection of the Messiah.
6. Witnesses of the Resurrection (Acts 2:32-33): Peter asserts that the apostles are witnesses to Jesus’ resurrection. He explains that Jesus, exalted to the right hand of God, has received the promised Holy Spirit from the Father and has poured it out, as seen and heard by the crowd.
7. Lord and Christ (Acts 2:34-36): Peter concludes by citing Psalm 110:1, arguing that David did not ascend to heaven, but he foresaw the Lord saying to his Lord, “Sit at my right hand.” Peter declares that God has made Jesus, whom they crucified, both Lord and Christ.
Audience and Message: Peter delivered this sermon to a diverse crowd in Jerusalem during the Feast of Pentecost. The audience included devout Jews from various nations.
The message conveyed was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through Jesus Christ, emphasizing His death, resurrection, and exaltation, and calling the people to recognize Jesus as both Lord and Christ.
This sermon is significant as it represents the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit and marks the birth of the Christian Church, with many people being moved to accept the message and be baptized.