Good Problem To Have!

July 29, 2024 Monday Message:

Acts 2:41 NLT: “Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day—about 3,000 in all.”

I love the story of the birthday of the church on the first Pentecost following the crucifixion. Here’s the short version:

The believers were all in one place, in Jerusalem, together, worshiping and praying, following Jesus’ instructions to the letter, when the Holy Spirit came upon them. Without the Spirit, they could accomplish nothing, but WITH the Spirit they were capable of great things. That’s also a lesson for us! Without the Holy Spirit, we can’t accomplish much, but WITH the Spirit, great things are possible!

Peter stepped into the town square and hopped up on his soapbox, re-stating the same things that got Jesus killed! But this time, all those visiting Jerusalem for the Pentecost celebration listened, each able to understand in his own language! (Holy Spirit working again…)

Obedience prevailed, and the question followed: “Brothers, what should we do?”

"Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

So how do you baptize 3,000 people? Well, the healing pool of Bethesda was nearby, and all the Apostles and disciples could help with the baptisms. How do you assimilate 3,000 people? That’s a good problem for a church to have!

If that happened nowadays, who would be doing the work? Who would give the speech, who would preach the truth, who could help with the baptisms, and who could sustain the local church so there’d be a home for 3,000 newly saved? Did your hand go up? I certainly hope so! We are ALL called to spread the Good News!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus In the City Fellowship