How does Acts 10:35 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? God’s Heart for All Nations in Acts 10:35 - “But welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.” (Acts 10:35) - Peter’s discovery at Cornelius’ house reveals God’s impartial grace—no ethnic barrier limits the gospel (cf. Romans 2:11). - “Those who fear Him and do what is right” shows saving faith produces obedient living (cf. James 2:17). The Great Commission’s Sweeping Scope - “Go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). - “All nations” (Greek: panta ta ethnē) mirrors Acts 10:35’s “every nation,” affirming a single, unified mission field. - Discipling involves baptizing and teaching—evangelism joined to ongoing instruction (cf. Colossians 1:28). - Christ’s promise, “I am with you always” (v. 20), guarantees the same divine approval Peter witnessed in Acts 10. Direct Links Between the Two Passages - Universal Reach: Both texts abolish exclusivity, fulfilling Genesis 12:3 (“all peoples on earth will be blessed through you”). - Divine Initiative: Matthew records Christ’s command; Acts records its first major Gentile breakthrough, showing obedience in action. - Required Response: Matthew calls for making disciples; Acts depicts Gentiles becoming disciples through faith and obedience (Acts 10:44-48). - Apostolic Authority: Jesus commissions; Peter exercises that authority, validating the Commission’s legitimacy (cf. Matthew 16:19; Acts 15:7-9). Broader Biblical Thread - Isaiah 49:6 foretold a “light for the nations,” echoed in both passages. - Revelation 5:9 envisions the consummation: a redeemed people “from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” - Acts 1:8 outlines concentric circles—Jerusalem to the ends of the earth; Acts 10 shows the circles expanding. Practical Implications for Today - Evangelism must cross cultural and social lines without prejudice (James 2:1). - Churches disciple new believers by teaching all Christ commanded, not a truncated gospel (2 Timothy 3:16-17). - Confidence rests in Christ’s continuing presence and the Spirit’s guiding, just as in Peter’s experience (Acts 10:19-20; John 14:26). |
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