Acts 2:36-41 concludes Peter’s Pentecost sermon with a direct call to action, declaring that God has made Jesus—whom the people crucified—both Lord and Messiah. The crowd is cut to the heart and asks what to do; Peter tells them to repent and be baptized in Jesus’ name for the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit. He assures them the promise is for all generations. About 3,000 people respond and are baptized that day.

"Both Lord and Messiah" This isn’t a ticket to heaven—it’s entry into Spirit-filled community and new creation life. What if this is not individualistic escape, but an invitation to resist the dehumanizing systems of the present age (Rome, religion, nationalism).

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This is the heart of Peter’s Pentecost sermon. He declares that Jesus’ death was part of God’s divine plan, but humans are still responsible for crucifying him. God raised Jesus from the dead, freeing him from death’s power—fulfilling David’s prophecy. Peter argues that David wasn’t speaking of himself, but of the Messiah, whom God would raise and exalt. He affirms that Jesus is now exalted at God's right hand and has poured out the Holy Spirit, which the crowd is witnessing.

How should we understand the upside down nature of the kingdom and the kind of power we are called to pursue? How does Jesus’ resurrection and exaltation redefine power, kingship, and God's faithfulness?

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Peter explains that the outpouring of the Spirit fulfills Joel’s prophecy, signaling the last days. He begins proclaiming Jesus as the one sent by God, validated through miracles and divine power. Here, those called are likewise validated by the Spirit moving in and through them. Joel 2 which Peter quotes here, talks of a radical inclusion. The vision for all people--this extends beyond Jew vs. Gentile, but also includes social boundaries of gender, age, etc. The Spirit of God is the great equalizer and is poured out on all people.

How does the Spirit reframe our experience and expand who belongs? How does Peter use and understand Joel 2?

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