Conviction and Repentance

Peter’s sermon at Pentecost (2:14-36) was a forceful proclamation of Jesus as Lord and Messiah, substantiated by abundant references to the Scriptures. His preaching style was similar to that of the apostle Paul, who “reasoned with them from the Scriptures” when he went to the synagogue (17:2). Peter demonstrated from Psalms 16 and 110 that David was speaking of Christ, not of himself. Such preaching was very effective because the word came “in power and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance” (1 Thess. 1:5). The effect of the truth upon their consciences is described in the phrase “cut to the heart.” Peter’s plain preaching had resulted in pain of conscience. Their desperate perplexity resulted in the question “What shall we do?” Conviction of sin resulted in a serious search for an answer. The Philippian jailer who came under conviction of sin (16:30) also asked, “What must I do to be saved?” Some consciousness of sin is an indispensable prerequisite to conversion. The Scriptures which reveal Christ as the only hope for sinners are God’s instrument for leading people to acknowledge their need and seek Christ for salvation.

Taken from The Devotional Daily Bible