Acts 3:12-26: Acting in Ignorance
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
And now, friends, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers.
Peter teaches us an important lesson today, a lesson he learned from Christ himself. In a non-threatening overture, he creates a safe space for understanding. In a loving gesture, he delivers a message of forgiveness and acceptance. With an open embrace, he both challenges and welcomes those who have been his enemies.
Peter addresses the crowds at the Temple, wading into the controversy that overshadowed the lives of this fledgling Christ-following community. How might we open our arms to those who oppose us?
Peter allows the Spirit to speak through him, putting aside his own anxiety and fear, delivering a much-needed message to a world awaiting hope. How might we step into our role as Christ-followers to speak the words we know we must say?
Peter rests in his tradition yet trusts the newness of his understanding of Christ as the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. How might we internalize the message of the Gospel story when we move into a world that looks for promise and assurance?
Today we reflect on Peter’s words to the crowds at the Temple and we wonder how we might avoid acting out of ignorance. And we determine to act out of, and through, and for Christ’s peace and love.
Tomorrow, Peter’s third sermon following Pentecost.
When we use the scripture link and drop-down menus to explore this sermon, we allow Peter’s words to open our hearts and minds.
Image from: http://newlife.id.au/bible-study-notes/the-apostle-peter/
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