(a) Summarize Peter's speech on Pentecost day. [12 marks (b) What three changes occurred in the life of the disciples after the coming of the Holy Spirit on...

Answer Details

(a) Summary of Peter's speech on Pentecost day (Acts 2:14-40)

• When the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples and they spoke in other tongues, some in the crowd mocked, saying they were filled with new wine. Peter stood up with the eleven and addressed the crowd.
• He explained that they were not drunk, since it was only the third hour of the day, but that this was the fulfilment of the prophecy of Joel: "In the last days I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh," and whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
• He proclaimed Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested by God with mighty works, wonders and signs, whom they had crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men, according to God's definite plan and foreknowledge.
• He declared that God raised Jesus from the dead, freeing Him from the pangs of death, since it was not possible for death to hold Him.
• He cited David, who foresaw that God's Holy One would not see corruption, arguing that David died and was buried, but spoke of the resurrection of the Christ.
• He testified that God had raised this Jesus and that they were all witnesses, and that being exalted at the right hand of God, Jesus had poured out the Spirit which they saw and heard.
• He concluded, "Let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified."
• When the people were cut to the heart and asked what they should do, Peter called them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. About three thousand souls were added that day.

(b) Three changes in the life of the disciples after Pentecost

1. Boldness in place of fear. The once-timid disciples now preached Christ courageously before the crowd.
2. Spiritual power and new abilities, including speaking in other tongues and working signs and wonders.
3. Deeper understanding and unity, devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers, and sharing their possessions.