When we examine the preaching of the apostles in the book of Acts, we notice something intriguing: the messages delivered to unbelievers make no direct reference to the promise of heaven or the threat of hell. This observation is striking, especially when we consider that the Bible does indeed teach the reality of both heaven and hell. Yet, in the context of evangelistic sermons in Acts, these concepts are notably absent.
Jesus spoke of heaven and hell, but these discussions were primarily directed towards his disciples—those who were already committed to following him. Similarly, Paul and other New Testament writers addressed heaven and hell in their letters to Christians. These revelations were given to believers as part of their deeper understanding of faith and the ultimate destiny of humanity. But when God, through the apostles, addressed non-Christians, he didn't focus on the afterlife.
So, what did the apostles emphasize in their preaching to non-believers? The central message was not about escaping hell or earning a place in heaven. Instead, it was about the exaltation of Jesus Christ. God has raised Jesus from the dead, seated him at his right hand, and declared him Lord and Christ. The call to action was clear: repent and submit to Jesus as the sovereign ruler of all.
Consider Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:36-38): "Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah." When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and asked, "Brothers, what shall we do?" Peter replied, "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."
Peter’s message wasn't about saving themselves from hell; it was about recognizing Jesus' authority and repenting from their resistance to him. This theme is echoed in Paul's address to the Athenians in Acts 17:30-31: "In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead."
The gospel, as preached in Acts, is a proclamation of Jesus’ lordship and a call to surrender to his authority. It is a message of transformation and allegiance, urging people to turn from their own ways and submit to Christ as king. The response God desires is not motivated by fear of hell or desire for heaven but by the recognition of Jesus’ rightful place as Lord of all.
This approach challenges us to reconsider how we share the gospel. Instead of focusing solely on the benefits of heaven or the dangers of hell, we should emphasize the lordship of Christ and the necessity of repentance and surrender to him. The true response to the gospel is one of total commitment and obedience to Jesus, recognizing him as the ultimate authority over our lives.
As we witness and share our faith, let us follow the example of the apostles in Acts. Let us proclaim the exalted Christ and call others to repent and surrender to him. This is the essence of the gospel: acknowledging Jesus as Lord and giving him the place of highest honor and authority in our lives.
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