Acts 2:40

With many other words he testified, and he urged them, "Be saved from this corrupt generation."

Study Bible

With many other words
This phrase indicates that Peter's sermon was extensive and not limited to the words recorded in Acts 2. The Greek word for "words" here is "λόγοις" (logois), which can mean sayings, speeches, or accounts. This suggests that Peter was thorough in his explanation and exhortation, using a variety of expressions to communicate the gospel message. Historically, this reflects the oral tradition of teaching in the early church, where apostles and disciples would speak at length to ensure understanding and conviction.

he testified
The Greek word for "testified" is "διεμαρτύρατο" (diemartyrato), which implies a solemn declaration or witness. This term is often used in legal contexts, suggesting that Peter was not merely sharing opinions but was providing a credible and authoritative witness to the truth of Jesus Christ. In the context of Acts, this underscores the apostolic authority and the divine mandate to proclaim the gospel.

and urged them
The word "urged" comes from the Greek "παρεκάλει" (parekalei), which means to call to one's side, to comfort, or to exhort. This indicates that Peter's message was not just informative but also pastoral and persuasive. He was encouraging his listeners to respond to the gospel with urgency and sincerity. This reflects the heart of evangelism, which is not only to inform but to invite and encourage a response.

Be saved
The phrase "Be saved" is translated from the Greek "σώθητε" (sōthēte), which is a command in the aorist passive imperative form. This implies an urgent call to action, emphasizing the necessity of divine intervention for salvation. The passive voice indicates that salvation is not something one can achieve on their own but is a work of God. This aligns with the conservative Christian belief in salvation by grace through faith, as articulated in Ephesians 2:8-9.

from this corrupt generation
The term "corrupt" is translated from the Greek "σκολιᾶς" (skolias), meaning crooked or perverse. This reflects a moral and spiritual deviation from God's standards. In the historical context of Acts, this refers to the Jewish leaders and people who rejected Jesus as the Messiah. From a broader perspective, it speaks to the pervasive sinfulness of humanity and the need for redemption. This call to be saved from a corrupt generation is timeless, urging believers to live distinctively in a world that often opposes God's ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
One of Jesus' twelve apostles, Peter is the primary speaker in Acts 2. He delivers a powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost, urging the crowd to repent and be baptized.

2. The Day of Pentecost
A Jewish feast occurring fifty days after Passover. It is significant in Christian history as the day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, enabling them to speak in various languages and marking the birth of the Church.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the events of Acts 2 take place. It is a central location for Jewish worship and the site of many significant events in the early Christian church.

4. The Crowd
Composed of Jews from various nations who were in Jerusalem for Pentecost. They witnessed the apostles speaking in tongues and heard Peter's sermon.

5. The Early Church
The community of believers that began to form following Peter's sermon and the events of Pentecost. This group would grow rapidly as more people accepted the message of Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

The Urgency of Salvation
Peter's exhortation to "be saved from this corrupt generation" highlights the urgency of responding to the Gospel. Believers today should recognize the importance of sharing the message of salvation with urgency and compassion.

The Role of Testimony
Peter "testified" with many words, emphasizing the power of personal testimony in evangelism. Christians are encouraged to share their own experiences of faith to lead others to Christ.

Separation from Worldly Values
The call to be saved from a "corrupt generation" suggests a need for Christians to live counter-culturally, adhering to biblical values rather than societal norms.

The Power of the Holy Spirit
The events of Pentecost demonstrate the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which empowers believers to live out their faith boldly and effectively.

Community and Growth
The early church's rapid growth following Peter's sermon underscores the importance of community and fellowship in nurturing faith and spreading the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Peter's message in Acts 2:40 challenge us to view our own generation? What specific actions can we take to live distinctively as Christians today?

2. In what ways can personal testimony be a powerful tool for evangelism in our current context? Can you think of a time when sharing your account impacted someone else?

3. How does the concept of being "saved from this corrupt generation" relate to the call for holiness found in 1 Peter 1:14-16? What practical steps can we take to pursue holiness in our daily lives?

4. Reflect on the role of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2. How can we rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us in our witness and daily Christian walk?

5. Considering the growth of the early church, what can we learn about the importance of community and fellowship in our own spiritual journey? How can we foster a sense of community within our local church or small group?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 3:7-10
John the Baptist's call to repentance and warning against a corrupt generation parallels Peter's exhortation in Acts 2:40.

Philippians 2:15
Paul encourages believers to be blameless and pure in a "crooked and perverse generation," echoing the call to be distinct from the surrounding culture.

1 Peter 1:14-16
Peter later writes about living holy lives, separate from the sinful desires of the world, reinforcing his message in Acts 2:40.