Facts to Believe: Jesus of Nazareth

Part 2 of the gospel of Jesus Christ of Nazareth Series

In Luke 24:44-47, Jesus told His apostles to wait in Jerusalem until they received power from on high. They obeyed, and in Acts 2:1-4, they were endued with power from the Holy Spirit. The miracles drew a crowd, and Peter stood to speak.

His sermon was about the Lord, mankind, and salvation. He began with, “Jesus of Nazareth” (Acts 2:22-24).

Why call Him that?

Nazareth was a small, ordinary town in Galilee — not the kind of place people expected greatness (John 1:45-46). Calling Him “Jesus of Nazareth” tied Him to an actual location, time, and identity. This showed the gospel is not myth or legend but grounded in history (Luke 2:4; 4:16).

Matthew tells us this fulfilled prophecy (Matthew 2:23). Nazareth had no prestige, highlighting the humility and accessibility of the Messiah. The name was used by both believers (Acts 3:6; 4:10) and enemies (John 19:19). So much so, that early Christians were sometimes called “Nazarenes” (Acts 24:5).

Peter’s audience knew Jesus had performed miracles in their midst (Acts 2:22). They knew He was crucified (Acts 2:23) — not as a mistake, but as part of God’s eternal plan (Isaiah 53:10-12). And they knew death could not hold Him (Acts 2:24-32).

Peter gave three pieces of evidence for the resurrection:

• Fulfilled prophecy (Psalm 16:8-11)
• Eyewitness testimony (Acts 2:32)
• Outpouring of the Spirit (Acts 2:33)

He also proclaimed Jesus’ ascension (Acts 2:33-35). These facts were clear, powerful, and convicting. They led to the next question: What must we do?

Next in the Series → [Commands to Obey: The Gospel’s Call to Action]