Acts 2:41

Those who embraced his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to the believers that day.

Study Bible

Those who embraced his message
This phrase highlights the response of the crowd to Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost. The Greek word for "embraced" is "ἀποδέχομαι" (apodechomai), which means to receive or accept gladly. This indicates a wholehearted acceptance of the Gospel message. Historically, this moment marks a significant turning point in the early church, as it shows the power of the Holy Spirit working through the apostles to convict and convert hearts. The message they embraced was the proclamation of Jesus as the Messiah, crucified and resurrected, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament.

were baptized
Baptism here is a public declaration of faith and repentance. The Greek word "βαπτίζω" (baptizō) means to immerse or submerge. In the Jewish context, baptism was a ritual of purification, but for these new believers, it symbolized dying to their old selves and rising anew in Christ. This act of obedience was a visible sign of their inward transformation and commitment to follow Jesus. It also signifies their entry into the community of believers, the body of Christ.

and about three thousand
The number "three thousand" is significant, illustrating the magnitude of the Holy Spirit's work. In the context of first-century Jerusalem, this was a substantial number, indicating a rapid and powerful expansion of the early church. This event fulfills Jesus' promise in Acts 1:8 that the disciples would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them, enabling them to be His witnesses. The large number also reflects the readiness of the Jewish people to receive the Messiah, as they were familiar with the prophecies and were awaiting the fulfillment of God's promises.

were added to the believers
The phrase "were added" comes from the Greek "προστιθέναι" (prostithenai), meaning to join or to be added to a group. This implies that the new converts were not just isolated individuals but became part of a larger community of faith. The early church was characterized by unity, fellowship, and shared purpose, as seen in the verses that follow. This addition signifies the growth of the church as a living organism, expanding through the power of the Holy Spirit and the faithful witness of the apostles.

that day
"That day" refers to the day of Pentecost, a Jewish feast celebrating the firstfruits of the harvest, which now becomes symbolic of the firstfruits of the church. This timing is significant, as it shows God's perfect plan in using this festival to gather Jews from various nations, allowing the Gospel to spread rapidly. The events of that day demonstrate the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit, empowering the disciples to carry out the Great Commission. It marks the birth of the church and the beginning of its mission to the ends of the earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
The apostle who delivered the sermon on the day of Pentecost, leading to the conversion of about three thousand people.

2. The Apostles
The group of Jesus' closest followers who were present and active during the events of Pentecost.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the events of Pentecost took place, a central location for Jewish worship and the early Christian church.

4. Pentecost
A Jewish feast occurring fifty days after Passover, during which the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, enabling them to speak in various languages.

5. The Three Thousand
The group of individuals who accepted Peter's message, were baptized, and added to the early Christian community.

Teaching Points

The Power of the Gospel Message
Peter's sermon, empowered by the Holy Spirit, led to the conversion of thousands. This demonstrates the transformative power of the Gospel when faithfully proclaimed.

The Importance of Baptism
Baptism is a public declaration of faith and an essential step in the believer's journey, symbolizing purification and new life in Christ.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit's work is evident in the conviction and conversion of the three thousand, highlighting the Spirit's role in drawing people to Christ.

Community and Growth
The addition of three thousand believers in one day shows the rapid growth of the early church and the importance of community in the Christian faith.

Obedience to Christ's Command
The apostles' actions reflect obedience to Jesus' command to make disciples, emphasizing the importance of following Christ's instructions in our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event of Pentecost in Acts 2:41 demonstrate the fulfillment of Jesus' promise in Acts 1:8?

2. In what ways does the baptism of the three thousand reflect the teachings of Jesus in John 3:5 and Matthew 28:19-20?

3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the conversion and growth of the early church, and how can we rely on the Spirit in our own evangelistic efforts?

4. How can the example of the early church's rapid growth and community life in Acts 2:41 inspire our local church communities today?

5. Reflect on your own baptism or decision to follow Christ. How does Acts 2:41 encourage you to live out your faith in obedience to Christ's commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:19-20
Jesus' Great Commission to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them, is fulfilled in Acts 2:41 as the apostles begin this mission.

John 3:5
Jesus speaks of being born of water and the Spirit, which is exemplified in the baptism and reception of the Holy Spirit by the new believers.

Acts 1:8
Jesus promises the apostles that they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them, which is realized at Pentecost.

Romans 6:3-4
Paul explains the significance of baptism as a symbol of dying to sin and rising to new life, which is the experience of the three thousand converts.

1 Corinthians 12:13
Paul speaks of all believers being baptized by one Spirit into one body, reflecting the unity and growth of the early church.