Acts 2:14a  “Then Peter stepped forward ….”

What a difference grace makes!  In the immediate aftermath of Peter’s encounter with Jesus on the shores of Galilee, we witness the effects of his subsequent restoration.  However, Peter is now bravely going forth in front of thousands of Jews who are gathered in Jerusalem on the yearly feast of Pentecost and loudly proclaiming the resurrected Christ. In the past, Peter had shrunk back and denied that he even knew Christ, now he shouts this:

Acts 2:36  “… let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

It is possible that some who were among the crowd that yelled “Crucify Him!” just a few days earlier were among those whose hearts were pierced by his remarks. Now, under the influence of the Holy Spirit’s profound conviction, they posed the question, “What shall we do?”  Peter responded by saying,

Acts 2:38  “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.”

His message had a significant impact on the world!  There were approximately three thousand people who were added to the church on that day because they trusted what Peter had said and were baptised. That is the difference that grace makes! Peter’s courageous act of faith was the spark that ignited everything! That is the power that can be gained from stepping up, in obedience.

When God restores our lives, He activates us for service!  Our mess becomes our life message. Jesus gives purpose to our pain and uses it to heal broken hearts. Peter stepped into his destiny and became a fisher of men!  What’s keeping you from stepping into your destiny?  Ask God to restore your life, and then step up in faith!