What is the meaning of Acts 10:48? So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. • Peter, having just witnessed the Holy Spirit fall on these Gentile believers (Acts 10:44–47), gives a direct command. The verb “ordered” underscores apostolic authority and the non-negotiable nature of baptism for new believers (compare Acts 2:38; Acts 8:36–38). • Baptism, taken at face value, is an outward, literal immersion symbolizing union with Christ in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:3–4). There is no hint of delay; obedience follows faith immediately. • “In the name of Jesus Christ” highlights that salvation and identification are found exclusively in Him (Acts 4:12). It also affirms that Gentiles do not need to adopt Jewish rites to belong; Christ alone is sufficient (Galatians 3:27-28). • This act publicly seals the truth that “God shows no partiality” (Acts 10:34), fulfilling the Great Commission mandate to “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them” (Matthew 28:19). • By commanding baptism after the Spirit has already come, Peter demonstrates that water baptism does not confer salvation but testifies to it, harmonizing with Ephesians 2:8-9. Then they asked him to stay for a few days. • The new believers invite Peter to remain, showing immediate fellowship and the breaking down of long-standing Jewish-Gentile barriers (Ephesians 2:14-16). • Staying provides time for foundational teaching: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching” (Acts 2:42). Young Christians need sound doctrine and personal guidance (1 Peter 2:2). • Hospitality cements unity within the body (Acts 16:15; Romans 12:13). Peter’s acceptance of their invitation demonstrates practical repentance from prejudice and models Christlike love (John 13:34-35). • Relationship precedes mission: by lingering, Peter equips them to stand firm before he departs (Acts 20:20). Such follow-up safeguards against error and strengthens their witness to the wider Gentile community. summary Acts 10:48 records two decisive responses to God’s work: Peter commands immediate, public baptism in Jesus’ name, confirming that Gentile believers are fully accepted through faith alone; and the new converts seek further fellowship and instruction, illustrating the ongoing nurture essential to Christian growth. Together, these actions reveal that salvation unites diverse people in Christ, calls for obedient identification through baptism, and flourishes in shared life and teaching. |
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