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The promise was given long ago on the day of Pentecost. After the Holy Spirit came upon the apostle Peter and the others (Acts 2:1-4), Peter told the crowd of Jews that were around them the story of Jesus and how they had killed their own promised Messiah with the help of wicked men. Peter further testified how Jesus had resurrected and that God had made Jesus Lord and Savior (Acts 2:5-36). On hearing this, the Jews were cut to the heart and they asked what they should do (Acts 2:37).

Some folks today would like to think that Peter's reply was to kneel at a prayer altar or repeat "the sinner's prayer." But that isn't what Peter said at all. Peter instructed the Jews to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins and they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). Peter told them the promise was for them, their children, and those far off who would be called by the Lord our God (Acts 2:39).

Have you claimed the promise of the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit for yourself? Have you met the conditions of the promise? Have you repented? Have you been baptized (immersed in water)? If not, why not? God's Word is full of promises, and He keeps them all. This promise is one of, if not the, most important of God's promises. This conditional promise holds the key to your destination for all of eternity. The promise is for you.