Repent and Be Baptized

Acts 2:14-41

Key Verse 2:38

1. In verses 14-21 Peter defended the position of the body of believers in regard to what was happening to them. Why is this defense necessary? 

2. In presenting Jesus to his audience in verses 22-23, Peter said to them, "you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross." Who is Peter addressing when he says, "you"? The Scriptures say that the governor's soldiers nailed Jesus to the cross. (Matthew 27:27-31) Yet, why did Peter describe his audience as murderers? (Isaiah 53:5-8)

3. Compare Jesus' resurrection (in verse 24) with the prophecy through David (in verses 25-35). What was Peter's conclusion? (36) What does "Lord and Christ" mean?

4. Consider the peoples’ response (37) and Peter's reply (38-39). What does it mean to: 1) repent; and 2) be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ? 

5. Verse 38 talks about "the forgiveness of your sins" and "the gift of the Holy Spirit." How are the two related to one another? Why are both necessary? 

6. In verse 40 Peter "warned" them and "pleaded" with them. God sent Jesus to "save" his people from their sins. Yet, why did Peter say, "'save' yourselves..."? 

7. Think about the word "added" or "number" in verse 41. What do these words suggest about God's will in establishing his servants like Peter?

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