Perrydox.com is devoted to the pursuit of truth, whether plain or paradoxical, whether simple or sublime, or simply absurd yet absolute.
Acts 2:38,40; 22:16 – Same Salvation; Different Descriptions
Too quickly we see what is not there; and take too long to see what is there, especially that which is good. This is true of recognizing worth in people, and in God’s word. Here are some thoughts fresh to me on a familiar verse.
Acts 22:16: “And now, why are you delaying? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name.’” (CSB’17)
Paul is recounting his conversion experience to a previously hostile Jewish mob. They would have been very familiar with baptisms, as they practiced many mikvas. “Wash away your sins” however when immersed was closer to John the Baptist’s practice than their ritualized cleansing. Doing it by “calling on the name of the Lord” was a higher calling than their tradition.
Although the language here is different, notice how in meaning it is the same as Peter’s sermon on Pentecost (Acts 2:38,40)
[ ] “Why are you delaying?” vs “strongly urged them”
[ ] “Get up and be baptized” vs “be baptized each of you”
[ ] “Wash away your sins” vs “for forgiveness of your sins”
[ ] “Calling on His name” vs “in the name of Jesus”
Each part of Ananias’ plea to Paul was made by Peter to his audience. Can you see your need to obey too?
Comments