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Acts 2:37

Primary
Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

What this passage establishes

Convicted hearers ask the apostles for the proper response to the gospel.

Why it matters in the argument

The apostolic record consistently treats repentance, water baptism, and Spirit reception as the commanded response to the gospel rather than optional religious accessories.

Apostolic connection

The singular name of Matthew 28:19 is enacted throughout Acts by baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, the revealed saving name.

Common misunderstanding

Baptism does not earn grace. It is a faith-response in which the believer obeys Christ, identifies with His death and burial, and calls on His name.

How to use it in conversation

Read the command, then show the apostles carrying it out. Let Acts interpret how Matthew 28:19 was understood.

Scripture connections

See which passages advance, clarify, or answer the argument

Continue this argument

Acts 2:38Continue the The Gospel Pattern argument with the next passage.

Supporting Scriptures

Romans 6:3-4This later passage reinforces the same argument from another angle.

Earlier in the argument

1 Corinthians 15:1-4Return to the prior step in The Gospel Pattern.

Nearby curated context

Acts 2:36The crucified Jesus is installed openly as Lord and Messiah in His exalted human office.Acts 2:32-36God raises and exalts Jesus, fulfilling Psalm 110 and installing the crucified Messiah in royal authority.Acts 2:38Peter commands repentance, baptism in Jesus Christ’s name for remission, and reception of the Holy Ghost.Acts 2:38-39The gift of the Holy Ghost is promised to repentant believers across generations and distance.