Sunday School Lesson - April 26

Focal Passages:
Acts 2:22-24,32-41

What This Lesson Is About:
Peter connected the miracle of Jesus’ followers speaking in unlearned languages under the influence of the Holy Spirit to the resurrected Jesus, thus forcing the issue of whether people would turn in faith to Jesus, the living Lord and Savior.

Spiritual Preparation Through Personal Bible Study - by Jerry Lemon, Senior Adult Minister, First Baptist Church, Waxahachie, TX.

The question Pilate asked the Jewish religious leaders who brought Jesus to judgment before him is still relevant today. He asked, “What should I do … with Jesus, who is called Messiah?” (Matt. 27:22). They answered from their spiritual blindness and refusal to consider the facts honestly. In spite of the signs Jesus had done that demonstrated He was sent from God as the Messiah, they rejected Him and called out to Pilate, “Crucify Him!”

One day, Ira came to our church through the influence of a woman he had met in the music business. He was Jewish. The Lord was working in his life. He pondered whether he should receive Jesus as his Savior, the Messiah. If so, why? This would be a mighty huge decision. It was not easy; but I am glad to report that in a few months this spiritually sensitive young man trusted Jesus as His Savior and continues to seek to live under the direction of the Holy Spirit as a dedicated Jew who follows Jesus as his Lord.

On the other hand, some adults ask, “Why should I accept Jesus as Savior?” with a tone of sarcasm. Others push aside the question as completely irrelevant to their lives. Some respond by firmly answering, “I shouldn’t and I won’t!” But others, like Ira, respond reflectively, realizing the question is relevant and vitally important to them personally.

In these studies of “Gospel Crossroads” we have learned that the Bible clearly teaches that Jesus is God’s Messiah, Jesus’ resurrection is a proven fact, and Jesus’ followers are true witnesses. This lesson will help adults at the crossroad of indecision about Jesus discover He is the one and only Savior and decide to trust Him and His forgiveness of their sins. I pray that you know such people and have some who will be present to study this lesson with you. If not, pray for the Lord to lead you and your class to be able to make such acquaintances and to help them consider the question and answer it affirmatively in God’s timing. The lesson also will help believers reaffirm their commitment to Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and determine anew to help others come to know Him.