The Gospel For All
BRD REFLECTIONS
Acts 10:24-48 and Psalm 98 (NIV)
(Joyce Ho, Wesley Missioner, Cru Singapore)
READ:
Acts 10:24-48 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
This passage is a pivotal turning point in God’s salvation message to the world. It starts with Peter accepting the invitation to Cornelius’ house. Who is Cornelius? He was a Roman centurion, a Gentile who became a devout follower of Christ. Cornelius is told by an angel to send for Peter while at the same time Peter is shown a vision where God declares the “unclean” food as “clean.”(Acts 10:9-15). God is asking Peter to eradicate his prejudice against Gentiles. We need to understand that the Jews at that time, had a self-conceived idea that only the Jews deserved salvation. This includes Jews and non-Jews who were circumcised but no one else. Jews saw themselves as God’s chosen people; Gentiles were seen as ‘unclean’ unholy, defiled, and unworthy of the Gospel message. In other words, Jews preached only to Jews.
Talk about perfect timing – with a change in his mindset, Peter accepted Cornelius’ invitation. Cornelius was so sure Peter would come that even before the apostle arrived, he gathered a group of his relatives and friends to listen to him. In v28, Peter said it was unlawful, that is, taboo for a Jew to associate with pagans, let alone meeting a household full of Gentiles. However, in v29, Peter’s explanation stressed the fact that God had convinced him to go against traditional Jewish custom. In response to his question, Cornelius shared his vision encounter.
Peter, realising that he has a captive audience, begins to share the Gospel message. Peter speaks of four things. First, he briefly reviews the works of Jesus. Second, he then tells them about His death and resurrection. Third, he announces the future judgment and Christ as Judge. Fourth, he leads hearers to faith in Jesus for remission of sins in agreement with the instruction of the prophets.
As Peter preached and the people listened, something most startling happened in the room. Yes, the Spirit fell even upon the Gentiles! We can sense that Peter and those who had come with him from Joppa were stunned, amazed that the Spirit was also given to the Gentiles. Of course, all in Cornelius’ house who heard the message that day received salvation in Christ!
APPLY:
As I meditate and reflect on this passage, I am thankful that indeed the Gospel is for every one and salvation is available for those who confess their sins and accept Christ as their Savior and Lord.
However, I asked myself, do I echo Paul’s words in Romans 1:16? Those words that say, “For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes – the Jew first and also the Gentile.” (NLT)
This caused me to reflect – “Have I allowed personal bias against a certain people group, race, religion and nationality to stop me from desiring to share the Gospel with them? Is the Great Commission given in Matthew 28:18-20 – that we are to go, make disciples of all nations — still resonating in my heart?
I must confess that because we live in a multiracial, multi-religious society, I have to be sensitive when I try to share Christ with certain people groups. But from the passage, I realised that God has divinely placed people across my path. So I should not limit Him by not starting spiritual conversations with them.
DO:
I have to remind myself that the Gospel is for everyone and I must trust Him for wisdom and discernment when He brings people across my path. Societal norms, or restrictions in proselyting my faith should not deter me from sharing the Gospel.
PRAY:
Thank you, God, that salvation is available to everyone who chooses to accept Christ as their personal Lord and Saviour. Thank you that the Gospel is colourblind. Help us to trust in your Divine leading and use us as conduits to share the Gospel with those whom you bring across our paths.
