How does Acts 15:7 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene in Acts 15 • The Jerusalem Council met to settle whether Gentile believers must follow the Mosaic Law. • “After much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, ‘Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that through my mouth the Gentiles would hear the message of the gospel and believe.’ ” (Acts 15:7) The Heart of Acts 15:7 • God personally chose Peter to preach to Gentiles (see Acts 10:34-48). • The verse affirms God’s intent that Gentiles “hear… and believe,” stressing faith, not law-keeping. • Peter appeals to an historical act of God, anchoring missionary outreach in divine initiative. Echoes of Matthew 28:19-20 • “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). • Jesus’ Great Commission is a universal mandate—no ethnic limits. • Peter’s testimony shows that mandate being carried out in real time: the gospel crossing Jewish-Gentile boundaries. Shared Themes Connecting the Two Texts 1. Divine Commission • Matthew: Jesus commands. • Acts: God “made a choice” through Peter. 2. Target Audience • Matthew: “all nations.” • Acts: “the Gentiles.” 3. Means of Salvation • Matthew: “make disciples… teaching… baptizing.” • Acts: Gentiles “hear… and believe,” later confirmed by the Spirit (Acts 15:8). 4. Authority & Presence • Matthew: “I am with you always.” • Acts: God validates Peter’s message by giving the Spirit (Acts 15:8-9), showing His continuing presence. 5. Fulfillment of Prophecy • Matthew’s command fulfills Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 49:6. • Acts 15:15-18 quotes Amos 9:11-12 to show the same promise unfolding. Other Scriptures Reinforcing the Link • Luke 24:46-47 – Forgiveness “to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” • Galatians 3:8 – Scripture “announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ ” • Revelation 7:9 – A multitude “from every nation… standing before the throne.” Practical Takeaways for Us Today • The gospel mission is rooted in God’s eternal plan; we share His heart when we cross cultural lines. • Salvation remains by grace through faith alone—no added requirements (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Confidence comes from Christ’s promise of presence and the Spirit’s power, just as Peter experienced. |
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