NOTES for Act 2:36-41
The reaction of the Jews listening to Peter's preaching may seem strange, considering that his final words spoke about their guilt. Peter, in calling them to believe in Jesus Christ, is not afraid of this truth. We should learn from him how to act when, in telling or preaching something, we are not afraid to tell a person the truth even when we know that it is "against them." And what is their reaction? "They were cut to the heart." This happened precisely because what was said was true and was said with love. Moreover, these people did not close themselves off or harden themselves against the truth they had been told; they accepted it and wanted to change something. Then God responds to this readiness of the heart and sends a gift: compunction of heart, something that changes the heart itself for the better, building mercy and love for those around it. And the Lord was no exception: they came to love Him as well. What could be more wonderful than the feeling of love for God?