“What Happens When You Receive the Word?”.

Scripture Focus
 
 Acts 2:37–41 (NASB 1995)
“Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart… So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.”
 
 
Sermon Reflection
 
 Receiving the Word is more than agreeing with it; it is obeying it. When Peter preached, the people weren’t just moved emotionally; they responded with repentance and obedience. The Holy Spirit used the Word to produce deep conviction, public courage, and communal transformation. In just a moment, the church was born, not through slick programs, but through souls who responded sincerely.
 
This is a reminder to all who call themselves believers: the Word of God is not something we merely listen to; it’s something we respond to. When we do, everything changes. Our public witness, our families, and our spiritual communities are transformed because we have been transformed.
 
 
How Should I Respond?
 
 Ask yourself honestly: Have I truly received the Word? Not just heard it, or been moved by it, but received it in a way that calls for change?
 
If you are a believer, this is a call to return to the obedience you once walked in.
If you once identified boldly with Christ but have grown silent, this is your reminder.
If you have family that needs to hear the truth, let your devotion lead them.
If you’ve been disconnected from the community, it’s time to rejoin what you were added to.
 
Let receiving the Word today reignite your devotion.
 
 
Weekly Prayer
 
 Lord, I don’t want to be someone who only hears Your Word; I want to respond with my whole life. Help me to live publicly for You, to influence my family with faith, and to walk faithfully with Your people. Reignite the fire in me to live a devoted life, not just in word but in action. In Jesus’ name, amen.
 
 
 
Application Plan – Living the Devoted Life This Week
 
Day 1: Public Identification
Read Acts 2:41. Ask: Have I made my faith public?
Action: Share your testimony with someone today, even if briefly.
 
Day 2: Family Focus
Read Acts 2:39.
Pray specifically for your children, siblings, or spouse.
Action: Invite a family member to read Scripture or pray with you.
 
Day 3: Community Commitment
Read Acts 2:42.
Reflect on your involvement in church.
Action: Reach out to your small group or join one this week.
 
Day 4: Gospel Expansion
Read Acts 2:47.
Ask God: How can I participate in spreading the gospel this week?
Action: Invite someone to church or share a devotional with them.
 
Day 5: Heart Check
Re-read Acts 2:37.
Ask: Is my heart still tender toward God’s Word?
Action: Write down what God is asking you to surrender or obey.
 
 
Final Thought
 
Receiving the Word of God is a doorway to a life of transformation. It’s not just about what you heard on Sunday, it’s about what you live out every day. Let this week be a return to your first love. Let it be a fresh start of devotion, one step of obedience at a time.