How can Acts 11:1 inspire unity among diverse believers in your community?

◄ Acts 11:1: Inspire unity in diversity? ►

The Surprising News Reaches Jerusalem

“Now the apostles and brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.” (Acts 11:1)

Key Observations from Acts 11:1

• One gospel, one Word—received alike by Jews and Gentiles

• “Also” signals equal footing, not second-class inclusion

• The entire believing community (“apostles and brothers”) is informed, inviting a collective response rather than private opinion

Principles for Unity Today

• God’s Word crosses every boundary; so must our fellowship

• Acceptance follows evidence of God’s work, not prior cultural approval

• Unity grows when news of grace is shared openly and celebrated together

Practical Steps for Our Community

• Share testimonies from every cultural group in gathered meetings

• Teach openly that reception of the Word is the only entrance requirement for full family membership

• Create mixed small groups that study Scripture side-by-side, emphasizing common identity in Christ

• Serve shoulder-to-shoulder in local outreach: nothing dissolves prejudice faster than shared mission

• Guard conversation: speak of fellow believers first as “brothers and sisters,” not by ethnicity or background

Supporting Scriptures

• John 10:16 — “Other sheep I have that are not of this fold.”

• Galatians 3:28 — “There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

• Ephesians 2:14-16 — Christ “has made both one and has torn down the dividing wall.”

• Revelation 7:9 — “Every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne.”