Memorize: Worship with Gentiles defended
Key Verses: 3, 17, 19-20, 26, 28-29
Peter’s actions with Cornelius raised some major questions from his fellow Jews in Jerusalem. But once they understood that the Holy Spirit came on the Gentiles just like the Jews, their objections were laid to rest. There was no need for Gentiles to become Jews before God could work in their lives. There were no steps people had to take before they could come to faith. Faith was the first step. It was also the only step. Nothing outward was necessary before or in addition to faith.
The persecution that started with Stephen brought about an explosion of the Gospel. Many Greeks believed in Jesus. And in the middle of this explosion, Barnabas and Saul join forces in pursuit of spreading the Gospel. We see in this passage a shift. Judea was the source of spiritual blessing for the Gentiles. Now with the famine upon them, the Greeks from other regions send help, specifically food support, to the Jews in Judea. These two things would never have happened apart from the grace both had received in the Gospel. The Gospel breaks down the barriers that had existed for many years.
When we enter into worship we let go of prejudice, at least we have the opportunity to do this. That is because we realize that God has dropped all those barriers. And if He has accepted us who were outside because of sin, who are we to exclude others because of some artificial barrier we have imposed? The Gospel creates the opportunity for new friendships, new alliances formed to advance His Word. Barnabas and Saul became partners when formerly they were enemies, at least from Saul’s former perspective.
What barriers have you imposed that keep other people on your “do not witness to” list? Don’t you think it is time to allow the Holy Spirit to work in your heart and life, opening up doors of opportunity that were formerly closed? Are you willing to team up with others to accomplish that goal? Are you willing to let God work in your life?
REVIEW: Review Acts 1-10 HOLY SPIRIT. You might also want to run through John.
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