Simon Peter, the courageous witness - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.
Acts 2:36.

Simon Peter, the courageous witness
This was said by the man who had shortly before denied Jesus Christ. He had denied knowing or following Him. What caused such a change in him?

Jesus Christ had risen from the dead. When He was crucified, all seemed lost. But now He had risen again and had appeared to the apostles and other disciples on various occasions. Peter had learned that Jesus' death on the cross meant victory, not defeat. It was the conquest of the Son of God over death and the devil. That gave the disciples great joy and fresh courage even for the time when their Master ascended to heaven (cf. John 20:19-29).

When, ten days after Jesus' ascension, the Holy Spirit came to earth, He dwelt in the believers as their Comforter and Helper. Through Him they received the power to serve Christ and testify for Him (John 14:26; Acts 1:8).

The Holy Spirit's descent at Pentecost in Jerusalem was accompanied by visible signs. Peter explained what it meant to the astonished visitors at the feast. It was a courageous and powerful sermon! He spoke of Jesus, His Master and Lord. He spoke frankly and clearly, accusing his listeners of crucifying "this Jesus". He spoke with authority, but also lovingly.

That sermon reached the hearts of many listeners. They inquired, "What shall we do?" Peter encouraged them to change their way of thinking and be converted. They should believe on Jesus Christ and confess Him as the Saviour sent to them by God. That day 3,000 persons were saved (Acts 2:1-4; 14-41).

Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 22:1-19 · 1 Timothy 1:12-17