Impact
The gospel like God himself cannot be contained or confined. In Acts 10 the church learns a powerful and culture-changing truth. The gospel is for the nations not for a select few. The action in this chapter centers around two activities — prayer & preaching. Both are timeless. Both are anointed by God today and produce supernatural results. Cornelius and Peter receive divine visions that change their direction. Cornelius discovers his good works are insufficient for his salvation and a relationship with God. Prejudice would have hindered Cornelius from hearing and receiving salvation. Peter now sees the gospel is for children of any nation. Where the Word is preached, disciples are born even in unexpected places. The free offer of forgiveness and reconciliation are irresistible. None of this would occur without the sovereign work of the Spirit. Yet still, he Jewish Christians were hesitant to welcome Gentile believers into their community. Acts 10 is just a taste of what is to come for the church.
Use these questions to read, reflect, and live out Acts 10 this week:
Acts 10v1-8
Why does the Lord give Cornelius a vision?
Acts 10v9-16
Why does Peter receive a vision?
Acts 10v17-29
How does Peter’s vision shape his actions?
Acts 10v30-33
Is your response to preaching similar to Cornelius?
Act 10v34-43
How far can the gospel go?
Acts 10v44-48
How does the Spirit surprise the church?
The Small Groups will study Acts 09 beginning Aug 26.