Acts 2:14

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, lifted up his voice, and addressed the crowd: "Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen carefully to my words.

Study Bible

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven
The phrase "Then Peter stood up with the Eleven" signifies a pivotal moment in the early Church. The Greek word for "stood up" (ἔστη) implies a decisive action, indicating Peter's leadership role among the apostles. Historically, this moment follows the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, marking the birth of the Church. Peter, once impulsive and fearful, now emboldened by the Spirit, stands united with the Eleven, symbolizing the restored and complete apostolic witness after Judas' betrayal and the appointment of Matthias.

lifted up his voice
"Lifting up his voice" (ἐπῆρεν τὴν φωνὴν αὐτοῦ) suggests a public proclamation with authority and clarity. In the context of ancient rhetoric, this act was essential for addressing large crowds, especially during festivals like Pentecost when Jerusalem was bustling with visitors. Theologically, it reflects the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, enabling Peter to speak boldly and effectively, fulfilling Jesus' promise that the Spirit would guide them in truth and testimony.

and addressed the crowd
The phrase "and addressed the crowd" (ἀπεφθέγξατο) indicates a formal and inspired speech. The Greek term used here is often associated with prophetic utterance, suggesting that Peter's message is not merely human wisdom but divinely inspired. This moment is significant as it marks the first public proclamation of the Gospel after Christ's resurrection, setting the stage for the Church's mission to the world.

Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem
"Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem" highlights the initial audience of Peter's sermon. Judea was the region surrounding Jerusalem, and during Pentecost, Jews from various regions gathered in the city. This address signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel, as the Gospel is first proclaimed to the Jews. It also foreshadows the universal mission of the Church, as these visitors would carry the message back to their homelands.

let this be known to you
"Let this be known to you" (ἔστω ὑμῖν γνωστόν) is a call to attention and understanding. The phrase underscores the importance of the message Peter is about to deliver. In a broader scriptural context, it echoes the prophetic tradition where God’s messengers often began with a call to hear and understand the divine message, emphasizing the gravity and truth of what is being proclaimed.

and listen carefully to my words
The exhortation "and listen carefully to my words" (ἐνωτίσασθε τὰ ῥήματά μου) is an invitation to attentive and discerning listening. The Greek implies an active engagement with the message, not just passive hearing. This call to listen is crucial, as Peter is about to explain the miraculous events of Pentecost and reveal the fulfillment of prophecy through Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being receptive to God's word, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
One of Jesus' twelve apostles, known for his leadership among the disciples and his boldness in proclaiming the gospel. Here, he takes a prominent role in addressing the crowd.

2. The Eleven
Refers to the remaining apostles after Judas Iscariot's betrayal and death. They are united with Peter in this pivotal moment of the early church.

3. Men of Judea
The Jewish people residing in the region of Judea, who were present in Jerusalem for the Feast of Pentecost.

4. Jerusalem
The city where this event takes place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the early church's birth.

5. Pentecost
A Jewish feast occurring fifty days after Passover, marking the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Christian church.

Teaching Points

The Role of Leadership in the Church
Peter's leadership exemplifies the importance of strong, Spirit-led leadership in guiding and teaching the church.

The Power of the Holy Spirit
The transformation in Peter from a disciple who denied Christ to a bold proclaimer of the gospel highlights the empowering work of the Holy Spirit.

Unity Among Believers
The unity of Peter with the Eleven underscores the necessity of unity in the church for effective ministry and witness.

The Importance of Scripture Fulfillment
Peter's reference to prophecy emphasizes the reliability of Scripture and God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

Boldness in Witnessing
Peter's courage in addressing the crowd encourages believers to be bold in sharing their faith, trusting in the Spirit's empowerment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Peter's transformation from denying Christ to boldly proclaiming the gospel encourage you in your own walk of faith?

2. In what ways can you seek to be more unified with fellow believers in your church or community?

3. How does understanding the fulfillment of prophecy in Acts 2:14-21 strengthen your confidence in the reliability of Scripture?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in your life, and how can you be more open to His leading and empowerment?

5. How can you apply Peter's example of boldness in witnessing to your own opportunities to share the gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 2:28-32
Peter's speech in Acts 2 references the prophecy of Joel, which speaks of God's Spirit being poured out on all people, signifying the fulfillment of prophecy and the inauguration of the last days.

Matthew 16:18
Jesus' declaration that Peter would be the rock upon which He would build His church is seen in action as Peter takes a leadership role in Acts 2.

John 14:26
Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would teach and remind the disciples of all He said. Peter's boldness and clarity in speech demonstrate the Spirit's work.