Readings:
Sermon:
In our two readings, Luke and Acts, both of which were written by Luke, we see Jesus’ command to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins which is followed by Peter actually practising that command.
What we see in Acts is the fruit of Peter’s mind being opened in our passage in Luke. We have recently celebrated Easter and have remembered the events which are in reference in our passages. Jesus died and rose again so that all who believe in him may have eternal life. Whilst we can understand these events and realise that they happened so that we may have forgiveness of sins, so that death may be defeated and that this moment changed the course of history, it was not so obvious to the disciples at the time. We read repeatedly that they didn’t really understand the teaching of Jesus and that he was to die and rise again. They were hiding away in fear initially after Good Friday and it seems were worried about the empty tomb as well. But in this moment, they had their minds opened by Jesus which allowed them to finally understand the scriptures and the events that they had just experienced.
Previously in the chapter in Luke, we have the road to Emmaus where the two followers had their eyes opened to recognise Jesus. Now, in our passage, the disciples are having their minds opened so that they may truly know Jesus.
For us today, we must begin our journey by seeking for our eyes and minds to be opened so that we may know and recognise Jesus Christ. It is the work of the Holy Spirit in us that lets us truly grasp the gospel, allowing us to repent and receive forgiveness of sins. And it is through the power of the Holy Spirit that we can join Peter in proclaiming repentance and forgiveness of sins. Let us seek the Holy Spirit in our lives, let us seek the Holy Spirit as we come to read our scriptures and when we seek to reflect on the events of our lives too.
And to move our focus back to where we began, the command to proclaim repentance and the forgiveness of sins.
Once we have grasped the gospel, we are called as Christians to proclaim it to all nations. And what is it that Christians are to proclaim? repentance and the forgiveness of sins. That is to turn to God and be given a clean slate.
Repentance for many people has negative connotations, maybe it comes for some with a sense of judgement. Yet, it is what the Christian is called to proclaim, and we should not shy away from it. For me, repentance is a hopeful, honest and positive action. The call to repentance is about saying that there is something better than what this world seems to offer, it’s about acknowledging that we ourselves are not perfect and it’s about choosing to trust the One who offers life to the fullest, who offers forgiveness, kindness, goodness and choosing to follow his Ways and reflect His good character in our lives.
The church is called to proclaim this message of repentance and forgiveness of sins. May this message resound loudly and hopefully. The gospel we proclaim sets people free, so let us proclaim it as we are called to do as the church.
Questions:
- Do you know and recognise the Lord Jesus Christ, as revealed in the scriptures?
- How could you proclaim repentance and the forgiveness of sins to somebody this week?