Which Old Testament scriptures support the message of impartiality in Acts 10:34? Why Peter’s Words in Acts 10:34 Matter “Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism.’ ” (Acts 10:34) Peter’s discovery at Cornelius’s house was not a new idea; the Old Testament had already declared God’s impartial heart. Below are some of the clearest passages. Foundational Verses Stating God’s Impartiality “For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, mighty, and awesome God, showing no partiality and accepting no bribes.” “And now, may the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice or partiality or bribery with the LORD our God.” “who shows no partiality to princes and does not favor the rich over the poor, for they are all the work of His hands?” Commands Against Partiality in Human Judgment • Deuteronomy 1:17; 16:19 • Proverbs 24:23; 28:21 Each passage forbids favoritism because God Himself is unbiased. Impartiality Illustrated in God’s Dealings with People • 1 Samuel 16:7 – God looks at the heart, not outward appearance. • Numbers 15:15-16 – One statute for Israelite and foreigner alike. • Ruth 2; Jonah 3-4 – Gentiles welcomed upon faith and repentance. • Isaiah 56:3, 6-7 – Foreigners who love the LORD welcomed to His house of prayer. • Malachi 2:10 – “Do we not all have one Father? Has not one God created us?” Old Testament Promises Envisioning Blessing for All Nations • Genesis 12:3 – “in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.” • Psalm 67:1-2 – God’s salvation made “known on earth… among all nations.” • Isaiah 45:22 – “Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth.” These promises anticipate Acts 10, where the gospel crosses the final ethnic barrier. Putting the Pieces Together • God’s character (Deuteronomy 10:17; Job 34:19) → no favoritism. • God’s law (Leviticus 19:15; Deuteronomy 1:17) → His people must reflect that character. • God’s plan (Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 56:7) → every nation included through faith. Peter’s declaration simply aligns with what God had already revealed: the Lord of Scripture is unwaveringly fair, consistent, and gracious to all who fear Him and do what is right (Acts 10:35). |
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