How can Acts 11:17 inspire us to accept God's gifts without hesitation? The scene in Acts 11:17 “ So if God gave them the same gift He gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to hinder God?” (Acts 11:17) • Peter recounts how Gentiles received the Holy Spirit just as Jewish believers did in Acts 10. • His rhetorical question shows instant surrender to God’s sovereign choice. • The verse reminds us that when God gives, our role is to welcome, not resist. What is the “gift”? • Immediately: the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues (Acts 10:44–46). • Broadly: every gracious provision flowing from salvation—new birth, forgiveness, adoption, spiritual gifts, power for witnessing (Romans 8:15–16; 1 Corinthians 12:4–7). • Ultimately: the Person of Christ Himself and eternal life (Romans 6:23). Lessons for us today • God’s gifts come directly from Him—never earned, always granted (James 1:17). • If God gives, no human opinion or prejudice should stall acceptance (Galatians 3:28). • Hesitation usually reveals misunderstanding, pride, or fear, not humility. • Welcoming His gifts honors the Giver and positions us for fruitful service. Practical ways to accept without hesitation 1. Examine Scripture, not feelings, as final authority. – “Your word is truth.” (John 17:17) 2. Recognize every gift is grounded in grace, not merit. – “For it is by grace you have been saved … it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8) 3. Confess known doubts or prejudices to the Lord. 4. Verbally thank Him and step out in obedience—faith grows in motion. 5. Celebrate testimonies of others God has blessed; their stories fuel bold acceptance. Encouragement from other Scriptures • Luke 11:13 — “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” • 2 Timothy 1:6–7 — “Fan into flame the gift of God … For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • 1 Peter 4:10 — “As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.” Closing thoughts Peter’s simple logic—“who was I to hinder God?”—cuts through every excuse. The same Father who poured out His Spirit on Jew and Gentile now pours out life, forgiveness, power, and purpose on all who believe. When He extends His hand, the only right response is open-handed gratitude and immediate trust. |
    |