Why Are You Waiting?

by Zeke Flores

In Chapter 2 of his prophetic book, Joel foretells the events related to Pentecost in Acts 2. His concluding statement from that prophecy was that "it will come about that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be delivered" (Joel 2:32). To "call on the name of the Lord" sounds like calling out to someone in a kind of prayer, and that's the way most people consider that phrase. But in reality, the meaning is closer to putting one's trust and confidence in God and all that pertains to Him.

For instance, who was saved on the day of Pentecost? Those who obeyed Peter's preaching. That is, they repented of sin and submitted to baptism for the forgiveness of their sins (Acts 2:38, 41). What did they do? Did they "call on the Lord" in prayer? No. In fact, Peter never mentioned prayer when they asked what they should do. They responded to the Lord's will in repentance and baptism, believing that if they did so, their sins would be forgiven.

When they responded in obedience, they were saved. They "called on the Lord” by putting their trust in Him and manifesting that trust by their direct obedience. In short, they did what He said to do.

Is it any different today? No, although people will maintain that "calling on the name of the Lord" is a simple utterance of prayer asking Him into their hearts and begging His salvation. Instead, Scripture tells us we are to "call on His name" as we hear what He says and do it. What saved the people on Pentecost saves people today.

"Why do you delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling in His name" (Acts 22:16).