Acts 4

“Then Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit and said to them, ‘Rulers of the people and elders: If we are being examined today about a good deed done to a disabled man – by what means he was healed – let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel, that by the Name of (Messiah) Jesus, the Nazarene – whom you crucified and whom God raised from the dead – by Him this man is standing before you healthy.  This Jesus is: The Stone despised by you builders, who has become the cornerstone.  There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under Heaven given to people by which they must be saved.’”  Acts 4:8-12 (HCSB)

Every time I read the book of Acts, I am amazed at the transformation that occurred in Simon Peter.  The man who cowardly denied Jesus to servants in the darkness of the courtyard of Caiaphas’ home is now boldly proclaiming Him in broad daylight at the Temple Complex to the very men who condemned Jesus.

There is no way such a transformation could have taken place had Peter not wholeheartedly believed that Jesus had been resurrected.  It makes no sense otherwise.

I like to use moments like these to ask myself: Has there been such an evident transformation in my own life?  Can people, who knew me before I became a follower of Jesus, notice a distinguishing transformation?  

Not only was Peter convinced that Jesus was the Messiah, but he also put his faith into action.  He followed the Lord’s leading, even though he knew there was a strong possibility of physical harm or even death.  God confirmed His leading by displaying His Spirit in power.

Have you ever experienced the Lord moving and working through you in power?  You probably won’t until you start stepping out in faith.  God’s Spirit is given to all who believe.  But you may never experience the power of His presence unless you boldly move forth, proclaiming His Gospel.

And what would that Gospel be?  The same one Peter proclaimed:  Salvation is in Jesus, alone, for there is no other name under Heaven given to people through who they MUST be saved!  All mankind is in need of salvation, and that salvation comes exclusively through Jesus.  If you want to be saved, you MUST come through Him.  Acts 4:12    

That being said, while the grace of Messiah comes exclusively through Jesus, it is offered to anyone who would, by faith, believe.  John 3:16-21