“Repent, and be baptized every one of you.”–Acts 2:38

The people of Jerusalem listened carefully to Peter’s sermon. His subject was Death, Burial and Resurrection of Christ. They became deeply troubled and convicted of their sin. Three thousand repented and accepted Christ as their personal Savior. Almost immediately they began to ask, “What do we do next?” “Be baptized EVERY ONE OF YOU” was the answer.

Every new convert should recognize that this command is intended for them. It has always been refreshing to meet people who wanted to know what to do next, after they were saved. On the Damascus Road, Apostle Paul’s first words following his conversion were, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” Preachers ought to keep baptism on their minds all the time.

PETER’S ORDERS

It would be good for us to notice that Peter did not tell the people to “think it over” or “pray about it.” Rather, he commanded them to obey the Lord and be baptized. He did not even ask them to wait until they could learn more about it. In fact, they were baptized right there and then. None had an opportunity to prove faithful. Jesus Himself had been baptized at the first opportunity, “to fulfill all righteousness.” Surely every saved person will want to please the Lord by obeying this first command and soon as possible.”

THE PEOPLE’S OBEDIENCE

Baptism tests the willingness of the new convert. Baptism is submission and yielding to His divine command. The Lord wants to know if we will do what we are told. Baptism is like going to school. It is the first grade of Christian life. It is not right to think that we can skip on up to senior high school without completing the elementary grades. Those “that gladly received his Word were baptized” (Acts 2:41). Three thousand were obedient because none wanted to wait after they heard Peter’s orders.

THE POWERFUL OUTCOME

Because of their obedience, a sweet spirit of fellowship grew among them. They began to study the Scriptures, pray together and became steadfast in the doctrine and service. In short, a great revival was on. Multitudes were added to the church as friends and neighbors received Christ, too, and were baptized.

There are many wonderful lessons for us in these Bible verses. One of the most important lessons here concerns baptism. In the following months, we will answer five questions concerning the all-important Bible theme.