How does Acts 11:14 emphasize the importance of sharing the Gospel message? Setting the Scene in Acts 11 Acts 11:13–14 recounts Peter’s defense to the Jerusalem believers: “‘He will convey to you a message by which you and all your household will be saved.’” (Acts 11:14) Why Words Matter • God sent an angel to Cornelius, yet the angel did not preach the Gospel; instead, he pointed Cornelius to Peter. • Salvation comes through the spoken message of Christ—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) • Peter’s words carried the Gospel’s life-changing power: “The word of God is living and active.” (Hebrews 4:12) The Link Between Message and Salvation • Acts 11:14 explicitly ties salvation to “words.” • 1 Corinthians 1:21—“God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.” • Acts 4:12—“There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” The name must be announced for people to call on it. Why We Must Speak • Romans 10:14—People cannot believe unless someone tells them. • Matthew 28:19-20—Our Lord’s command to “go” presupposes verbal proclamation. • Acts 8:35—Philip “began with this Scripture and proclaimed to him the good news about Jesus.” Household Impact • The promise embraced Cornelius “and all your household,” highlighting the Gospel’s reach beyond the initial hearer. • Similar household conversions: Lydia (Acts 16:15), the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:31-34). • One faithful witness can open the door for an entire family line. Practical Encouragement • Count on the Holy Spirit—He who prepared Cornelius prepares hearts today (John 16:8). • Use Scripture—God’s word carries His authority; lean on clear passages like John 3:16 and Romans 10:9. • Be ready—Peter himself later writes, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you for the reason for the hope you possess.” (1 Peter 3:15) • Trust the outcome—Only God saves, yet He chooses to work through our testimony (2 Corinthians 5:20). Key Takeaways • Acts 11:14 grounds salvation in the spoken Gospel. • Angels may stir interest, but people must proclaim Christ. • God often uses one obedient witness to reach many. • Sharing the Gospel is not optional; it is the divinely appointed means by which households, communities, and nations come to faith. |
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