Repentance and the Forgiveness of Sins

“The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted Him at His right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.”  Acts 5:30-31

Throughout the Easter season, our lectionary readings include much of Peter’s preaching.

Peter is blunt and to the point:  You killed Jesus.  God raised Him.

And Jesus is raised, not for His own sake, but for you–to give repentance and the forgiveness of sins.  This is not an invitation, but His word actually accomplishing what it says.

At Pentecost, those who heard Peter’s preaching were “cut to the heart.” They cried out, “What shall we do?”  

Peter does not respond with something for you to do; instead, he gives the gift: repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins. 

Preaching is not talking about Jesus. Instead, it is the arrival of Christ Himself, who speaks to sinners here and now.  He speaks, and by His speaking kills the old sinner and raises the new Christian, forgiven and free.

Baptism is not a milestone or a step in a process.  It is the same Word given to you in the water. Jesus Christ joins you to His death and life, naming you as one whom He has been raised to forgive.

It is the same Word He still speaks through His Church today.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Raleigh