A New Truth (Part 2)

Acts 10:34-36, 44-48

“34 Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. 44 While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, 46 for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, 47 “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.”

Peter, after receiving a vision from God, was led by the Holy Spirit to the household of Cornelius, a Roman Centurion, to preach the gospel to a room full of gentiles..  In the house, Peter realized the meaning of God’s vision to him.   He understood that any believer, in any nation, of any race was acceptable to God.  And if they were acceptable to God, then they were acceptable to Peter.

The Holy Spirit was poured out on all who were there and Peter baptized them all in the name of Jesus Christ.

Notice that the gentiles asked Peter to stay with them for several days.  No doubt, they wanted to learn more.

Our Christian journey does not end with our baptism.  

That is when it begins.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)