The Book of Acts

Peter Explains His Actions in Caesarea

Acts 11:1-18 NLT

“Soon the news reached the apostles and other believers in Judea that the Gentiles had received the word of God” - Acts 11:1

                  After the amazing happenings at Cornelius’ home in Caesarea, Peter left to return to Jerusalem. The news of what had taken place there had preceded Peter’s return. When he had gotten back to Judea he was confronted by the Jewish believers who began criticizing him for what had transpired. Mainly it was that in their eyes Peter had marginalized the laws of Judaism by entering the home of a Gentile and staying there for several days. The Jews had the belief that while Gentiles could become redeemed, they must first adhere to Jewish law prior to salvation. Peter, following God’s direct instructions, did as he was told in spite of the laws edicts.

                  Peter defended his words and actions in Cornelius’ home by recounting all that had taken place prior to his meeting the Gentile Centurion. Once he shared both his vision from the Lord and the visitation Cornelius had with an angel of God, the once critical Jews praised God that he had seen fit to open salvation up to the non-Jew. All the issues hadn’t been cleared up and would rear their ugly head further down the road, but for now the conversion of Cornelius was accepted by the Jewish believers.         

                  It was a critical next step in the development of the early church. The Jews initially thought they were the only ones to whom redemption would be offered due to the fact that the Mosaic Law was given to them and no one else. But they were found to be wrong since the message of freedom from sin was now being made available to all, regardless of race, creed, or color. Do you have a problem accepting someone who is not like you into the family of God? Do you feel everyone must believe exactly the same as you? God is One who makes each of his creation unique in every way. We are to accept all, even as God accepts all and while we should never alter our beliefs based on a popular or traditional thought or teaching, we must be open to alternate ways of looking at the same belief. Many times our differences may just be a matter of semantics. * Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In his name & for his glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): New Testament.

* The meaning or the interpretation of a word, sentence, or other language form; [American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011)].