What Must I Do? Acts 16:25-34

Text: Acts 16:25-34

The Philippian Jailer asked Paul and Silas, “Sirs, what must I do?” – Acts 16:30

This is an essential question all must ask. However, he was not the first to ask. The crowd on Pentecost asked Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37) Also, Saul of Tarsus asked, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” (Acts 9:6).

If we ask different men what to do to be saved, we will get different answers; asking the Lord what to do gives us one answer!

Believe – Acts 16:31-32

Once the Philippian Jailer became open minded, could he received the word of the Lord and act on the instruction to, “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

Belief is not a stand alone requirement, but a starting point! Jesus said we must believe in Him to receive everlasting life (John 3:15-16; 8:24). However, Paul clearly shows belief must be accompanied by confession (Romans 10:9-11). So, if we truly believe in Christ, we will do what He says.  True belief leads to obedience.

Hear God’s Word – Acts 16:33

Upon hearing the word of the Lord, all who heard were baptized! That’s exactly the same response that happened on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:38ff.). Jesus Himself said, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16).

Rejoice! – Acts 16:34

He rejoiced, having believed in God. He showed his belief by acting upon it! When the Ethiopian eunuch was told to believe, he did, and was baptized (Acts 8:26-39)! On the day of Pentecost, many gladly received the word and were baptized (Acts 2:41)! Thus, the saved are added to the Lord’s church (Acts 2:47).