When a person is allowed the keys to something it shows they are trusted with a privilege or a responsibility. It maybe keys to a house, or a car, or an office.
We know that Jesus was willing to give Peter “the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven”. (Matthew 16:19.) In this Bible passage we see Peter using the keys that are very important for you and me to know about.
The Holy Spirit had just come to the disciples. It was the day of Pentecost. A very large crowd had quickly gathered because they had heard the mysterious noise that “sounded like a strong wind blowing”. Then they heard Jesus’ disciples miraculously speaking in foreign languages! (2:2-6.)
“Peter spoke to the crowd … let me tell you what this means … this is what the prophet Joel spoke about” in the Bible. Here was Peter using the Bible message as a key to prove that Pentecost was of God’s doing.
We must also use the Holy Bible as a “key” today to test the many religious experiences and miracles that are going on around us. (Acts 17:11. Matthew 7:21.) For example: suppose a “miracle” caused people to be attracted to some kind of statue or image; by using the “key” of God’s Word, the Holy Bible, you would clearly see that such a miracle could not be a work of God. God in His Word forbids any images or statues to be used for His worship. (Deuteronomy 4:15-16. 13:1-4. 2ndThessalonians 2:9-12.)
Now let us notice another “key” Peter used. He told them, “God had already decided that Jesus-would be handed over to you.” (verse 23.) You see, God had permitted Jesus to be put to death to pay for your sins and mine. (2ndCorinthians 5:21.) God was satisfied by His payment, and so He “raised Him from death because it was impossible that death should hold Him prisoner.” (verse 24.) So, the message about Jesus is the “key” to our SALVATION.
Peter Was the first person to preach this good news to the Jews. (verses 22- & 36.) Later he would be the first to bring this “key” message of Salvation to the Gentiles also. (Acts 10:34-48. 15:7.)
Peter then said to the crowd, “Jesus has been ‘exalted to the right side of God, He has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit, and has poured out what you now see and hear.’” (verse 33.) “Be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” (verse 36.)
"What shall we do?" the crowd asked.
Peter's answer to them is the very same as he would give to you and me today; “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.” (verses 37-38.)
Have these “keys” Peter used opened up Salvation and truth to you?
Read Acts chapter 2, verses 14-39.
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