Church of Shape Plain Clothing | April 20, 2025

The Best Evidence | Top Evidence

God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Acts 2:32

In a challenging world, hope and resurrection resonate deeply. Acts 2:32 reminds us of God raising Jesus, inviting us to witness love and grace. Share personal faith experiences to inspire belief and embody Jesus' message.
    • TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

      Acts 2:29-36

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, the message of hope and resurrection resonates deeply within our hearts. The words from Acts 2:32 remind us of the profound truth that God has raised Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of this miraculous event. This powerful declaration serves as a beacon of light, guiding us through our daily lives.

As we reflect on this scripture, we are encouraged to embrace the hope that comes from faith. The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event; it is a transformative experience that invites us to witness the power of love, grace, and redemption. Each of us has the opportunity to share this message with others, spreading joy and encouragement in our communities.

Being a witness means more than just observing; it involves actively participating in the story of hope that God has woven into our lives. We can share our personal experiences of faith, the moments when we felt God's presence, and the times when we witnessed His miracles. These testimonies can inspire others and strengthen our collective belief in the goodness of God.

Let us also remember that witnessing is not limited to words. Our actions speak volumes about our faith. By living out the principles of love, kindness, and compassion, we embody the message of Jesus. Whether it's through small acts of kindness or larger commitments to serve those in need, we can demonstrate the life-changing impact of faith in action.

As we navigate our journeys, let us hold onto the truth that we are not alone. Just as the early disciples were witnesses to the resurrection, we too are part of a larger community of believers who share in this incredible story. Together, we can uplift one another, support each other in our struggles, and celebrate the victories that come from living a life rooted in faith.

In conclusion, the message of Acts 2:32 is a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Jesus. As witnesses of His resurrection, we are called to share this hope with the world. Let us be bold in our faith, compassionate in our actions, and unwavering in our commitment to spreading the love of Christ. Together, we can make a difference, one heart at a time.

In a world of challenges and uncertainties, the message of hope and resurrection resonates deeply within us. Acts 2:32 reminds us that God has raised Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses. This declaration guides us daily. Reflect on scripture, embrace hope from faith. Jesus' resurrection is transformative, inviting us to witness power of love and grace. Being a witness means actively participating in the story of hope woven by God. Share personal faith experiences to inspire and strengthen belief.
Actions speak volumes about faith. Live out love, kindness, and compassion to embody Jesus' message. We are not alone on our journeys. Just as early disciples witnessed the resurrection, we are part of a community of believers. Together, we uplift, support, and celebrate victories rooted in faith. Acts 2:32 reminds us of hope in Jesus. Let's share this hope boldly and compassionately, spreading Christ's love.

Today's Insights

In the heart of the New Testament, Acts 2:34-35 presents a powerful message delivered by Peter during Pentecost. He quotes Psalm 110:1, saying, “The Lord said to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’” This verse is not just a mere citation; it carries profound theological implications that resonate throughout Scripture.

James Montgomery Boice, a respected theologian, highlights the importance of this verse in his commentary on Psalms, noting that it is quoted or alluded to at least twenty-seven times in the New Testament. This makes it the most frequently referenced Old Testament verse in the New Testament, underscoring its significance in early Christian thought and teaching.

Peter’s use of this psalm during his sermon is particularly noteworthy. It reflects his deep understanding of Jesus’ identity and mission. When Jesus quoted this psalm in Matthew 22:44, He was challenging the Pharisees’ understanding of the Messiah. This moment was pivotal, as it revealed the dual nature of Christ—both human, as the son of David, and divine, as David’s “Lord.”

Peter, having witnessed the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus, boldly proclaimed this truth to the crowd. His message was clear: Jesus is not only the Messiah but also the divine Son of God, seated at the right hand of the Father. This position signifies authority and power, affirming that Jesus reigns over all, including His enemies.

Understanding Psalm 110:1 in this context enriches our comprehension of Jesus’ role in salvation history. It invites us to reflect on the implications of His lordship and the promise of His ultimate victory over evil. As believers, we are encouraged to embrace the hope that comes from knowing that our Lord is sovereign and that His enemies will ultimately be made a footstool for His feet.

In conclusion, the quotation of Psalm 110:1 by Peter serves as a cornerstone for understanding the nature of Christ and His mission. It challenges us to delve deeper into the Scriptures, recognizing the interconnectedness of the Old and New Testaments and the profound truths they reveal about our faith.

Peter quotes Psalm 110:1 in his Pentecost message, highlighting Jesus' divinity as both Lord and Messiah.

Today's Devotional

Lee, a journalist with an analytical mind, embraced faith in Jesus after studying his wife's beliefs. His daughter followed suit, inspired by his transformation.

Lee's story is one that resonates with many who find themselves questioning their beliefs and the world around them. As a journalist, he was trained to analyze, investigate, and seek the truth. His analytical mind led him to a crossroads when his wife embraced a faith that he had long dismissed. Rather than turning away, Lee chose to embark on a journey of exploration.

For two years, Lee delved deep into the tenets of Christianity, examining the claims of faith, the historical context of Jesus, and the implications of the resurrection. This period of research was not just about gathering information; it was a time of reflection and introspection. Lee grappled with his doubts, challenged his preconceived notions, and sought to understand the transformative power of faith.

What makes Lee's journey particularly compelling is his willingness to confront his skepticism head-on. Instead of dismissing his wife's beliefs, he engaged with them, asking tough questions and seeking honest answers. This approach not only enriched his understanding but also deepened his relationship with his wife as they navigated this spiritual journey together.

Ultimately, Lee's two-year quest culminated in a profound realization. He found himself drawn to the idea of God, the significance of the resurrection, and the hope that faith in Christ offers. This transformation is a testament to the power of inquiry and the importance of being open to new perspectives. Lee's story serves as an encouragement for those who may be on a similar path of doubt and discovery.

In a world where beliefs can often be polarizing, Lee's journey reminds us that faith is not always a straightforward path. It can be filled with questions, challenges, and moments of uncertainty. However, it is through this exploration that many find clarity and conviction. Lee's experience illustrates that faith can emerge from a place of doubt, and that the journey itself can be just as valuable as the destination.

Whether you are a skeptic, a seeker, or someone who has found faith, Lee's story is a powerful reminder that the pursuit of truth can lead to unexpected and life-changing revelations. Embrace your journey, ask your questions, and be open to the possibilities that lie ahead.

Change can be a powerful force in our lives, often leading us to unexpected places. It’s incredible how a single transformation can ripple through a family, inspiring others to seek their own paths of faith. This was the case for Lee Strobel, whose journey not only impacted him but also touched the heart of his young daughter.

After months of personal growth and exploration, Lee’s transformation became evident to those around him. His five-year-old daughter, noticing the positive changes in her father, expressed a heartfelt desire to experience the same connection with God. She turned to her mother and said, “Mommy, I want God to do for me what he’s done for Daddy.” This simple yet profound statement reflects the innocence and purity of a child’s faith, as well as the powerful influence of a parent’s journey.

It’s moments like these that remind us of the importance of leading by example. When we embrace change and allow our faith to guide us, we create a ripple effect that can inspire those we love. Lee’s daughter, moved by her father’s transformation, took a step of her own and put her faith in Jesus. This act of faith not only solidified her relationship with God but also strengthened the bond within their family.

As we navigate our own journeys, let us remember the impact our transformations can have on others. Whether it’s through our actions, words, or the way we live our lives, we have the power to inspire those around us. Just as Lee Strobel’s change encouraged his daughter to seek her own faith, we too can be a source of encouragement and inspiration for others.

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, the journey of faith can provide a sense of purpose and direction. It’s never too late to embrace change and seek a deeper connection with God. Just as Lee and his daughter discovered, the journey can lead to profound transformations that not only enrich our own lives but also touch the lives of those we hold dear.

Let us continue to support one another in our journeys of faith, celebrating the changes that lead us closer to God and to each other. Together, we can create a community that uplifts and inspires, reminding us all of the beauty that comes from transformation.

In a world filled with skepticism and doubt, the story of the resurrection of Jesus stands as a powerful testament to faith and belief. Many individuals grapple with the concept of resurrection, often finding it hard to accept. However, the accounts of reputable eyewitnesses provide compelling evidence that cannot be easily dismissed.

One of the most notable eyewitnesses was the disciple Peter. He boldly addressed a large crowd, sharing the profound truth that King David was indeed dead and buried, as recorded in Acts 2:29. Peter didn’t just stop there; he pointed to a prophecy made by David himself, which spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah. This connection between David's words and the events surrounding Jesus' resurrection is significant and worth exploring.

Peter's declaration, “God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it” (Acts 2:32), serves as a cornerstone of Christian belief. It emphasizes the importance of firsthand accounts in establishing the truth of significant events. Eyewitness testimony has always held weight in any society, and the resurrection of Jesus is no exception. The disciples, including Peter, were not merely sharing a story; they were sharing their lived experiences, their encounters with the risen Christ.

For many, these accounts provide a sense of hope and assurance. The resurrection is not just a historical event; it symbolizes the promise of new life and the possibility of transformation. It invites individuals to reflect on their own beliefs and consider the implications of such a profound event. If Jesus truly rose from the dead, what does that mean for our understanding of life, death, and faith?

As you contemplate the resurrection, consider the impact of those who witnessed it firsthand. Their testimonies continue to resonate through generations, encouraging countless individuals to explore their faith and seek a deeper understanding of the divine. The story of the resurrection is not just for the past; it is a living narrative that invites us to engage with the mystery of faith today.

In conclusion, the resurrection of Jesus, supported by the testimony of eyewitnesses like Peter, challenges us to confront our doubts and embrace the possibility of hope and renewal. It reminds us that faith is often built on the experiences of those who have gone before us, and that their stories can inspire us to seek our own encounters with the divine.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of Christian faith, and one of the most compelling pieces of evidence for this miraculous event lies in the lives of those who witnessed it firsthand. Among these eyewitnesses was Peter, a disciple who experienced a profound transformation after encountering the risen Christ.

Before the resurrection, the disciples were filled with fear and uncertainty. During the crucifixion, they went into hiding, overwhelmed by the events unfolding around them. Peter, in particular, faced a moment of weakness when he denied knowing Jesus three times, as recorded in the Gospel of John (18:15-17, 25-27). This act of denial highlights the human struggle with fear and doubt, a struggle that many of us can relate to in our own lives.

However, everything changed when Peter and the other disciples saw Jesus alive after his resurrection. This encounter filled them with an unshakeable courage and a renewed sense of purpose. They went from being fearful and hiding to boldly proclaiming the truth of the resurrection. Their lives became a testament to the transformative power of faith and hope.

Their willingness to share the message of the risen Christ, despite facing persecution and hardship, speaks volumes about the impact of their experiences. It is not just the event of the resurrection that is significant, but the radical change in the lives of those who witnessed it. They became fearless evangelists, spreading the good news of Jesus to the world, and their testimonies continue to inspire countless individuals today.

In reflecting on the lives of these eyewitnesses, we can find encouragement in our own journeys. Just as Peter and the disciples were transformed by their encounter with the risen Christ, we too can experience change in our lives through faith. Whether we face moments of doubt or fear, the message of hope and resurrection offers us the courage to step out and share our own stories.

Ultimately, the changed lives of the eyewitnesses serve as powerful evidence for the resurrection. Their transformation from fear to faith is a reminder that hope is always within reach, and that the risen Christ can bring about profound change in our lives as well.

Reflect & Pray

What do you believe about the resurrection of Jesus? How does that belief affect your life?

What are your thoughts on Jesus' resurrection and how does it impact your life?

Father, I’m so grateful for the reality of Jesus’ resurrection that changes my life and gives me real hope.

Grateful for Jesus' resurrection, it changes my life and gives me hope.
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      Author: Bacilio Junior Albarran Sanchez
      Publisher: Shape Plain Clothing

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