What does "God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles" mean for evangelism today? Context: Paul’s Final Word in Acts 28:28 - “Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” (Acts 28:28) - Spoken while Paul was under house arrest in Rome, addressing Jewish leaders who were divided over his message. - Follows a pattern already seen: preach “to the Jew first” (Acts 13:46; 18:6; Romans 1:16), then turn to the nations when rejection sets in. - Underscores a major theme of Acts: the unstoppable spread of the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Theological Significance - God’s promise to bless “all the families of the earth” through Abraham (Genesis 12:3) is fulfilled in Christ. - Isaiah 49:6 previewed a Servant who would be “a light for the nations.” - Christ’s atonement is sufficient for every ethnicity (1 John 2:2). - “There is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord is Lord of all” (Romans 10:12). Implications for Evangelism Today • Universal Scope - No people group is outside God’s saving plan (Revelation 5:9). - Every culture, language, and social class is a legitimate mission field. • Confidence in Response - “They will listen” fuels boldness; the Spirit prepares hearts among the nations (Acts 13:48). - Rejection by some should never silence the message. • Break Down Barriers - Prejudice, nationalism, and cultural comfort zones must yield to gospel urgency (Ephesians 2:14–16). - Friendship with immigrants, refugees, and travelers mirrors Paul’s outreach beyond borders. • Priority of Proclamation - Salvation is “sent,” implying deliberate movement (Romans 10:14–15). - Personal testimony, open-air preaching, digital platforms, and cross-cultural missions are all valid avenues. Practical Next Steps - Pray daily for an unreached nation or people group. - Support workers who plant churches among those with little gospel access. - Learn a second language or cultural skill to connect with neighbors from other backgrounds. - Host international students, welcome refugees, or partner with ethnic congregations in your city. - Keep sharing locally even when some reject; God may redirect you to more receptive listeners. Key Reinforcing Passages - Matthew 28:19–20: the Great Commission is global in scope. - Romans 1:16: “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” - Acts 10:34–35: God shows no partiality; anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable. - 1 Corinthians 9:22: becoming “all things to all people” for the sake of saving some. Encouragement for the Messenger - The gospel’s advance to the Gentiles proves God’s faithfulness and power. - Our role is to speak; God guarantees that listening ears are out there. - Press on with expectancy—He who sent salvation will still draw the nations today. |
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