Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Jerry Rhinehart:
Acts 2:37-42 (NIV)
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” 40 With many other words, he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Choose one or two key verses from the Scripture reading in Acts today and do at least one of the following for your chosen verse(s).
A – Ask questions of the text (Who, what, why, where, when)
E – Emphasize certain words as you read the text over & over
I – In your own words (paraphrase one or more verses)
O – Other verses in the Bible that say the same or opposite
U – Use it; apply the truth from the text in your life
Precious Lord, Your gospel message is clear and inclusive of every person on this earth past, present, and future. The corruptness of power and the selfishness of mankind has overtaken many souls and it roars loudly over the loving message of Your forgiveness. In this new year, let my life stand out like a beacon, let my words be megaphone and my prayers for others be a lifeline that connects them to You. I pray that they turn to the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit and everlasting salvation. Gifts that I do not deserve but am most thankful for and want to share. Amen.