Preparing for the Lord's Day
Acts
Many think the Protestant Reformation was merely a religious event, but history shows that it was a seismic shift that reshaped European culture. When Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses, he not only sparked a movement that transformed the Church but also altered politics, culture, and economics. Politically, the Habsburgs had long dominated central Europe, yet the Reformation provided local rulers an opportunity to resist the control of the Holy Roman Empire. By the end of the 17th century, the Empire had weakened, giving rise to the modern nation-state. Culturally, the Reformation ushered in an era of widespread literacy, as the conviction that all should read the Bible fueled the expansion of education. Economically, it laid the foundation for what later became known as the Protestant work ethic—an understanding of labor as a calling unto the Lord. The accumulation of savings and capital that followed helped pave the way for the Industrial Revolution. The Reformation didn’t change a few things, it changed everything.
This morning, we turn to Acts 2, where we encounter a similarly transformative moment in redemptive history. After the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the miraculous proclamation of the gospel in many languages, the crowd asks, “What does this mean?” (v. 12). In response, the Apostle Peter delivers the first sermon of the Christian Church, turning to Joel 2 to explain that Pentecost is the fulfillment of this prophecy. And the result is nothing short of a cosmic upheaval. The coming of the Holy Spirit marks the dawn of a new age, and from this moment forward, nothing will ever be the same.
To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and to meditate upon Acts 2:12-21, Ezekiel 36:26-27, Matthew 12:28-29, Romans 10:13, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 1:13-14, Hebrews 1:1-2, and this article on the end times.
This week we will celebrate that sacrament of the Lord’s Supper during our worship service. As we receive the elements of bread and wine we look in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ. For as we physically receive the signs of the Lord’s body and blood, spiritually we feed upon him and all his benefits. Our hymns for this week include “Give to Our God Immortal Praise,” “There Is a Redeemer.” and “The Communion Hymn.”
Sermon Information:
Text: Acts 2:12-21
Title: What Does This Mean?
Outline:
- It Means that there is a New Era (v. 17a)
- It Means that there is a New Calling (vv. 17b-18)
- It Means that there is a New King (vv. 19-21)