What can we learn from the apostles' reaction to Gentiles receiving "the word of God"? Setting the Scene – Acts 11:1–18 “Now the apostles and brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.” (Acts 11:1) Peter recounts his vision (Acts 10:9–16), the Spirit’s command to go “without hesitation” (Acts 11:12), and the outpouring of the Spirit on Cornelius’ household (Acts 10:44–46). The conclusion: “When they heard this, they became silent and glorified God, saying, ‘So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.’” (Acts 11:18) Initial Shock, Honest Questions • The apostles and believers were “criticizing” Peter (Acts 11:2–3). • Their concern: table fellowship with the uncircumcised (v. 3). Lesson: Even committed disciples can be blindsided by God’s unexpected work; questions are healthy when submitted to Scripture and the Spirit. Careful Examination & Testimony • Peter “explained to them in detail” (v. 4). • He anchored his defense in: – A God-given vision (vv. 5–10) – The Spirit’s direct command (v. 12) – Eye-witness confirmation from six brothers (v. 12) – Christ’s promise about Spirit-baptism (v. 16; cf. Acts 1:5) Lesson: Discernment rests on clear revelation and verifiable evidence, not sentiment. Humility Before God’s Sovereign Initiatives • “Who was I to be able to hinder God?” (v. 17). • Their silence (v. 18) shows submission. Lesson: When Scripture and the Spirit align, godly people yield—personal preference bows to divine purpose. Celebrating God’s Grace Beyond Boundaries • They “glorified God” (v. 18). Praise replaced prejudice. • Fulfillment of promises: – Isaiah 49:6 – light to the nations – Romans 10:12–13 – “no difference between Jew and Greek” Lesson: True believers rejoice when the gospel crosses barriers; God’s glory outshines cultural comfort. Unity Forged Through Repentance & Faith • “Repentance unto life” unites Jew and Gentile (v. 18; cf. Ephesians 2:13-16). Lesson: Shared experience of salvation forms the basis for fellowship, not ethnicity, ritual, or background. Mission Momentum • This event propels the church toward intentional Gentile outreach (Acts 11:19-26; 13:1-3). Lesson: Witnessing God’s work among outsiders should accelerate, not stifle, missionary zeal. Guarding Our Hearts Today • Watch for subtle favoritism (James 2:1-9). • Keep Scripture central when evaluating new movements (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Welcome all whom God welcomes (Romans 15:7). • Celebrate every conversion as evidence of God’s gracious initiative (Luke 15:7). Takeaway The apostles’ journey—from suspicion to surrender to celebration—teaches us to test everything by God’s Word, remain open to His sovereign surprises, and magnify His grace whenever and wherever sinners receive the gospel. |
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