Acts 2:38

Acts 2:38

Peter’s response, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” links repentance, baptism, forgiveness, and the Spirit’s gift. The formula “in the name of Jesus Christ” emphasizes allegiance to Jesus’ authority and the trainee’s identity in him. Baptism functions as the public identification with Christ and his people. The phrase “for the remission of sins” reflects a common Jewish-Christian understanding of purification and forgiveness mediated through Jesus’ death and resurrection. The Spirit’s gift follows repentance and baptism, signaling new life, empowerment for witness, and inclusion in the community. The context is a call to respond in obedience, with the expectation of interior transformation evidenced by outward acts (baptism) and Spirit-enabled living.

This verse anchors core gospel categories: repentance, faith in Jesus’ name, forgiveness, and Spirit empowerment. It reinforces that salvation is both a divine gift and human response. The “name” language emphasizes Jesus’ authority and personhood; the Spirit’s gift confirms new covenant life. It also clarifies the dynamics of church identity: a community shaped by baptism, doctrine, and spiritual empowerment. It sets a pattern for Christian initiation that remains central in many churches today.

Practically, consider baptism as more than a ritual; it’s a symbol of belonging to Jesus and beginning of a new life empowered by the Spirit. Repentance remains ongoing for believers—reorientation of life toward Jesus in daily choices. In ministry, emphasize ongoing reception of the Spirit for bold witness, service, and living out the gospel in communities. For personal faith, it invites to live transparently—confessing sins, receiving forgiveness, and stepping into mission.

Cross-References: Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:41; Romans 6:3-4; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:26-29