Peter delivered the first Christian sermon and provided the first apostolic explanation of Jesus' death and resurrection. When Peter is accused of being drunk, he uses the opportunity to speak to the crowd. At the current time, which is nine in the morning and the start of the first Jewish prayer, the people present are not drunk but filled with the Holy Spirit. Despite visitors from various places in the Mediterranean, Peter addresses his message to the men of Judea and those residing in Jerusalem. During his sermon, Peter accuses the men of Jerusalem of being responsible for the death of Jesus (verse 23). This accusation extends to Judaism, which has its heart in Jerusalem. However, Peter's aim is not merely to condemn but also to expose the serious wrongdoing in the city around fifty days prior.

Peter referred to Joel 2:28-32 and connected it to the event of Pentecost, indicating that the era of "the last days" had started. As God promised, the Spirit is being poured out on everyone. The prophecy of Joel is now being fulfilled through both men and women speaking about "the mighty works of God" (Acts 2:11). Peter explicitly addresses the crowd as "men of Israel" and directs his message to those who either witnessed or knew about Jesus' ministry and crucifixion. Many in the crowd likely believe that Jesus' story has ended, but Peter explains that Jesus is alive and reigning as the Davidic King. Jesus was crucified because it was God's plan, and the people listening to Peter played a part in it. However, Peter's intention is not to resolve the complexities of this topic entirely. The Bible acknowledges both God's sovereignty and human responsibility as real things. Peter's purpose is not to initiate a discussion but rather to convict his audience to repentance. Peter explains that Jesus' death and resurrection were part of God's plan, as prophesized in Psalm 16 by David.

Peter quoted Psalm 110, a favorite text of the early church, in his sermon. He used it to highlight how the resurrection of Jesus fulfilled scripture. He also touched on the theme of judgment, previously mentioned in the Joel text. According to Psalm 110, Jesus was crowned as King, and the final judgment of God's enemies is all that remains. Peter declared that everyone should know that God made Jesus both Lord and Christ, the same Jesus who was crucified. Peter's impactful sermon showcases the power of the gospel. Luke describes that the listeners were deeply moved and asked Peter and the other apostles what they should do. Peter's response was simple yet profound: repent and be baptized in Jesus' name. This is the key to forgiveness, which Peter equates to salvation throughout the Bible (see 10:43; 13:38-39; 26:18). The main takeaway from this story is that even those who rejected and killed Jesus can receive forgiveness from God. According to Acts 2:41, the first Christian sermon led to the conversion of three thousand people.

Luke describes the practices of the first group of believers in Acts. Although they are not referred to as the "church," it doesn't mean their actions don't apply to churches. These verses serve both descriptive and prescriptive purposes, meaning that they depict the situation and provide patterns that we should emulate. The people in the early church had a consistent routine of gathering to hear the apostles teach. They also made a point to come together for fellowship, shared meals (including the Lord's Supper), and prayer. While not explicitly stated, "breaking bread" probably refers to the Lord's Supper. The group prayed both at the temple and in other locations. Today's church can and should follow its example by prioritizing teaching, prayer, fellowship, and communion.

There has been controversy and misunderstanding surrounding verses 43 and 44. It should be noted that these verses do not promote Christian socialism or suggest that believers give away all their possessions. The believers still owned property and met in homes. Sharing freely, along with fellowship, communal meals, and prayer, is proof of being saved by the power of the Holy Spirit. It's not just about agreeing with Jesus' teachings but a complete transformation reflected in acts of extraordinary kindness and care for others. The believers in Jerusalem were initially well-liked by everyone, as stated in Acts 2:47. However, their favorable status quickly changed, and they faced opposition from the Jewish leadership, similar to what happened during Jesus' ministry. The reason behind their initial favor may have been their behavior in the community.