The Bible Teacher's Commentary
Paul J. Bucknell
Intersection in Time: Two Visions
Acts 10:1-48
The Message (Acts 10:34-44)
Opening his mouth, Peter said: "I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him. You know the word which He sent to the sons of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all)."
Peter's sermon here is remarkable because it was impromptu. He hadn't spent a week in a study preparing it; rather, it flowed from his deep conviction of the historical facts of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. He emphasizes that "we are witnesses of all the things He did." Christianity is not based on a philosophy, but on events that actually occurred in time and space.
The Evidence of History
Peter lists the key elements of the Gospel:
- The baptism of John
- Jesus being anointed with the Holy Spirit and power
- His ministry of healing and doing good
- His crucifixion in Jerusalem
- His resurrection on the third day
- His appearance to witnesses chosen by God
The Sudden Conclusion
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening. Peter didn't even get to finish his sermon! This "Gentile Pentecost" proved to the Jewish believers that God had accepted the Gentiles exactly as they were—through faith in the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of sins.
Other Study Guides in Acts:
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