Have you ever been so changed by an experience that people who’ve known you your whole life barely recognize you? That’s what happened on the Day of Pentecost. Ordinary men who had once been fearful and uncertain were suddenly bold and unashamed. The same Peter who denied knowing Jesus now stood in front of a crowd and spoke with authority. He did not speak under his own strength or courage; he spoke with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Though the influence of the Holy Spirit appeared strange to the crowd, it was actually the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy. The last days had begun, and time was running out to respond to God’s grace. Peter used this opportunity, not to preach opinions or trends, but to preach Jesus Christ as the center of everything that God was doing. His message was urgent and clear: the Jesus you rejected is now seated at the right hand of God.

Peter’s sermon still speaks to us today. As believers, we too will become misunderstood by a world that cannot spiritually understand what God is doing. Friends, family, coworkers, and even followers on social media may think we’ve gone too far or become “too religious.” Yet, like Peter, we are called to stand firm, speak truth, and point others to Christ. The same Spirit who empowered Peter now lives in us. That means we are not only witnesses to what God has done; we are participants in what God is still doing.

Getting Started

  1. If someone asked you to describe your faith journey in one word, what word would you choose?
  2. What words come to mind when you hear the phrase “power of the Holy Spirit”?

Let’s Get Personal

  1. Have you ever experienced a moment where your faith set you apart from others? How did it make you feel?
  2. When you think about sharing your faith, do you feel more confident or more nervous? Why?
  3. Peter boldly preached about Jesus even though he denied him in the past. How do past mistakes affect your willingness to speak about Christ?

Take the Next Step

  1. What is one area where you need to rely more on the Holy Spirit instead of your own strength?
  2. As you close your time with your group, pray together and ask God to give you more boldness and opportunities to share the Gospel this week.
  3. Want to dig deeper? Take a look at the following passages: Acts 2:14-41; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Joel 2:28-32; John 18:17; Psalm 16:8-11.

Renew Your Mind

Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit…”
– Acts 2:38