In what ways can we be more open to God's unexpected plans? Setting the Scene Acts 10 chronicles a literal historical moment in which God broke through cultural barriers to bring the gospel to Gentiles. Peter, a devout Jew, receives a vision that overturns his previous understanding of clean and unclean. Arriving at Cornelius’s house, he explains, “So when I was invited, I came without objection. I ask, then, why have you sent for me?” (Acts 10:29). Peter’s willingness to move “without objection” models how believers today can stay open to God’s unexpected plans. A Key Phrase: “I came without objection” • Peter laid aside long-held assumptions rooted in tradition. • He trusted that a vision aligned with Scripture’s broader mission mandate. • Immediate obedience positioned him to witness the Holy Spirit poured out on Gentiles (Acts 10:44-45). What Kept Peter Open 1. Ongoing prayer (Acts 10:9) prepared his heart before the vision arrived. 2. Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:19-20) enabled him to discern divine leading. 3. Humility acknowledged that God’s wisdom surpasses human categories—echoing Isaiah 55:8-9. 4. Respect for God’s Word anchored him; he interpreted the vision through the lens of Christ’s Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Practical Steps for Us • Submit daily plans to the Lord: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart…He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Hold traditions lightly when Scripture points further: God’s mission includes every nation (Genesis 12:3; Revelation 7:9). • Act promptly when prompted: delayed obedience breeds doubt (James 1:22). • Cultivate teachability: allow the Spirit to challenge long-standing perspectives (John 16:13). • Stay in fellowship with diverse believers; God often speaks through unexpected people (1 Corinthians 12:21-22). • Keep a lifestyle of sacrifice and renewal: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice…be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:1-2). Encouraging Promises to Rely On • God directs willing servants: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go” (Psalm 32:8). • His plans are always for good: “I know the plans I have for you…to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). • He works beyond our imagination: “Able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20). A Closing Challenge Like Peter, believers today can move “without objection” when the Lord redirects. By praying, listening, surrendering preconceived limits, and obeying swiftly, we position ourselves to experience God’s greater, sometimes surprising, purposes. |
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