Peter’s reply, inspired by the Holy Spirit, shows the true Gospel response.
Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to Himself (Acts 2:38-39).
- “Repent” means to change your mind, which leads to a change of behavior.
- “Be baptized” means to be plunged under water. This is not optional. Peter, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, gives this command: “Repent and be baptized every one of you …” There are no exceptions (Romans 6:3; Galatians 3:26-27; 1 Corinthians 12:13). Why? Because these commands are given “in the name of Jesus Christ”—given by His authority for His purposes.