Sermon of the Apostle Peter in Jerusalem (Acts 2: 14-38)
My study deals with Saint Peter’s speech, that locates him in the public arena, for the first time in Acts. His speech sets a pattern for the ensuing speeches in Acts, and its contents establish many of the motifs for subsequent speeches in Acts. In form, it follows Hellenistic rhetorical conventions, and the way that Peter stands (2, 14) is typical of public oratory. Saint Apostle Peter initiate a long sequence of speeches in which, as a whole, the larger story of Jesus and Israel is linked with the events that are taking place. The speech offers an interpretation of the phenomena which have just been experienced, through recourse to Scripture. The citation of prophet Joel in vv. 17-21, already contains more than adequate points of connection with the immediate context: reference to the Spirit, prophecy and wonders. The end of his speech, instructs his listeners to repent (2, 38). Such a call to repentance is a standard element in prophetic discourse, and it has to be the ultimate goal of our nowadays preechers.
CĂTĂLIN VARGA
|
|
