ACTS 2:23

This man [Jesus] was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.

TO PONDER

There are a few biblical sporting jokes. Here’s one that fits the above text. 

Where was cricket played in the Bible? When Peter stood up and was bold (bowled). 

In Acts, Peter is certainly not the Peter we knew before Jesus rose. He is boldly addressing those who have commented that the disciples were drunk. In a way they were – but with the Holy Spirit!

Peter addresses the crowd, and tells them off. They are strong accusing words ‘you…put him to death by nailing him to the cross…’  

That is a bold move, but he is telling the truth…in love. He continues to refer to the listeners as ‘brothers’, but then he gives them, and us, the good news. God raised him up. Jesus is no longer dead. He is no longer buried. This means we have freedom. This means we are allowed to be bold. This means we are given the opportunity to tell the world that Jesus is alive and well and working in our lives – whether you realise or not. May your lives reflect what Jesus has achieved for us.    

PRAYER

Living Lord, we’re not always good at telling others about you. Give us the strength and boldness to live our lives as your children, and when we have the opportunity to tell others, give us the words to use. Amen    

Today's devotion written by Mark Simpfendorfer, LifeWay Epping