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And many other words (typical of Peter) did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves
from this untoward (crooked, perverted) generation.

Peter has done everything he can by preaching the gospel to those present. The Holy
Spirit has done everything he can by “pricking” or convicting them of their sins. Now ist
is time for them to do something. There is only one decision that will save the people
from the evil generation they belong to and eternal damnation after death. No one can
force a person to be saved. They decision belongs to each person alone.

THE CHURCH IS BORN (VERSES 41-47)

After Peter’s sermon, approximately 3000 are added to God’s kingdom and the first local church
begins. The Word, prayer, and fellowship are all established in the church. Many of the early
believers will go on to voluntarily sell their possessions and goods to dispense as needed to
various members of the newly formed church. The Lord added to the church daily.

THE SUCCESS OF THE EARLY CHURCH

Act 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were
added unto them about three thousand souls.
Then they that gladly received (apodechomai: welcomed) his word were baptized: and
the same day there were added unto them about 3000 souls.

These people receive the gospel, are born again, baptized in water, and filled with the
Holy Spirit. The first local church is formed around these 3000 who had been born again.
The leadership from the 120 will form the first church government and disciple the new
converts.

Act 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking
of bread, and in prayers.

Four areas of successful discipleship are listed in this verse by order of importance. First,
a commitment by the disciple to hear the Word of God taught in the local church by those
anointed to minister. Notice the Word comes before the fellowship of saints, eating
together, or praying together in the early church. Discipleship does not begin with one-
on-one relationships but with that dedication to the Word.

Next, fellowship which begins with the Father is established among the individuals within
the congregation (1 John 1:3). This fellowship is not necessarily times of prayer but is
worship to God and spiritual communion with one another.

The third area mentioned is breaking of bread or covenant meals. In this early church,
there are specific times the congregation meets for meals either as a large group or
together as small groups of friends.