Analysis of Peter's Sermon
—On the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2)

PROBLEMS

(Acts 2:14-15)

Peter begins by cutting down the barriers to his message:

• SENSATIONALISM:
  Peter’s audience is drawn by the sensational event . He directs their attention to the important thing: "Heed my words".
• PREJUDICE & SKEPTICISM:
  Others mocked the apostles, saying they were drunk. Peter counters this prejudice.

EVIDENCES

(Acts 2:16-22)

Peter lays these foundations of proof for his message:

• PROPHECY:
  The testimony of the prophets makes up half the transcript of the sermon (v17-21; 25-28; 34-35).
• MIRACLES:
  Jesus was accredited by his miracles.

TRUTHS

(Acts 2:23-36)

Peter proclaims two of the most basic truths of the gospel. He then powerfully restates them in verse 36.

• THE CROSS:
  Jesus' death on the cross was not a victory for his enemies, but the plan of God"
• THE RESURRECTION:
  "God raised him up from the dead". He has been exalted to the right hand of God"

ESSENTIALS

(Acts 2:37-38)

Obviously they would have to believe in Jesus Christ, but their faith ought to be obedient.

• REPENTANCE:
  Peter said to them, when they asked what they must do, "Repent..."
• BAPTISM:
  "...and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ..."

REWARDS

(Acts 2:38-39)

These promises were to "all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call" (v39).

• FORGIVENESS:
  "...for the forgiveness of sins..."
• GIFT OF THE SPIRIT:
  "...and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit"

Chart by Ron Graham