How can we apply Peter's example in Acts 10:32 to our evangelism efforts? Setting the Scene “ ‘So send to Joppa and summon Simon, who is called Peter; he is staying in the house of Simon the tanner, by the sea.’ ” (Acts 10:32) Cornelius has received explicit, heaven-sent instructions. Peter, meanwhile, is already on God’s radar through his rooftop vision (Acts 10:9-16). When the messengers arrive, Peter moves—no delay, no debate. That simple willingness sets the stage for the first large-scale Gentile conversion. What We Observe in Peter’s Example • God engineers the encounter. Peter doesn’t invent the mission; he responds to it. (Acts 10:19-20) • Peter obeys immediately. “Peter went down to the men” (v. 21) and leaves the next day (v. 23). • He crosses geographic, social, and cultural lines to reach people previously considered “outsiders.” • Peter takes along six believers (Acts 11:12) for confirmation and accountability. • He arrives ready to speak Christ, yet humble enough to learn what God is doing (Acts 10:29). Applying These Patterns to Our Evangelism 1. Look for God-Prepared People • Ask the Lord each day for “Cornelius moments”—people already sensing a need for the gospel (John 6:44). • Trust that “one sows and another reaps” (John 4:37). Our task is to step into God’s timing. 2. Move Quickly When the Spirit Nudges • “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15). • A gentle prompting to text a friend or walk across the street may be the Spirit arranging a divine appointment. 3. Cross Comfort Zones • Peter left the Jewish enclave of Joppa for a Gentile home in Caesarea; we may leave our cultural bubbles. • “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19) starts in the next cubicle, café, or city. 4. Bring Others Along • Invite a prayer partner or small group member to join outreach efforts. • “Two are better than one… For if either falls, his companion can lift him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). 5. Share the Gospel Plainly and Fully • Peter’s message centers on Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and lordship (Acts 10:36-43). • “How will they hear without someone to preach?” (Romans 10:14). Keep Christ central; avoid distractions. 6. Expect the Spirit to Confirm the Word • As Peter speaks, the Holy Spirit falls (Acts 10:44). • We proclaim; God persuades. Our confidence rests on His power, not our eloquence (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). 7. Celebrate and Integrate New Believers • Peter immediately baptizes Cornelius’s household (Acts 10:48). • Fold new believers into church life so growth is nurtured (Acts 2:42). Encouragement for Everyday Witness • Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Romans 1:16—The gospel “is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” • Acts 1:8—“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses…” Step out as Peter did: ready, willing, confident that God has already gone ahead of you. |
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