March 31, 2023

Acts 2: 36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” (NIV)

Jesus was crucified for being who he really was.*

When it comes to sermons, Peter knew his audience and tailored his message accordingly. The setting for this verse is Jerusalem, on the day of Pentecost. In town for the occasion were “God-fearing Jews from every nation,” who were surprised to hear the sound of the disciples speaking in foreign languages. “Amazed and perplexed,” they gave Peter just the opening he needed when they asked, “What does this mean?”

Peter proceeded to deliver a gospel message that would resonate with his Jewish listeners. His references to prophecies from Joel and David back up Jesus’ claims to be the Messiah, but he provides them with the most conclusive evidence of all: God has made him both Lord and Christ. And as soon as he spoke those words, they stood and began to sing, “Just As I Am.” . . . Well, not really. But the results were the same. “What shall we do?” they asked, and Peter told them (see verse 38).

It may seem that Peter was a little harsh with his Jewish listeners when he accused them of crucifying Jesus. Those particular Jews were probably some of the out-of-towners and so were not part of the crowd that cried out for the death of our Lord. It’s like trying to make me feel guilty for the way the Native Americans were mistreated in the early days of our country, or for importing Africans for the slavery industry: I didn’t do it! But I share in the blame if I abuse or discriminate against someone because of their race; and the Jews in Peter’s audience could not claim clean hands if they denied Jesus’ lordship.

Beware lest you find yourself in company with those who crucified the Lord. In Hebrews chapter six is a dire warning for those who have “tasted the goodness of the word of God” but who fall away. “To their loss,” we read in verse six, “they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.” I do not want to be part of that crowd!

Behold the Man upon the cross, My sin upon his shoulders. Ashamed to hear my mocking voice Call out among the scoffers.*