Bible Study - Acts 10: 1-23a

Read Acts chapter 10 verses 1-23a

Peter needed to learn! He was one of the key Christian leaders, the 'rock' on whom Jesus had promised to build his church, but he needed to expand his thinking.

Cornelius, too, needed to learn--about Jesus. As a Centurion in the Roman army he was well used to a leadership rôle. Although he was a Gentile he respected the moral and ethical teaching of the Jews. He was a deeply reverent man, believing in the one true God, as did his entire household. His lifestyle reflected his faith and he prayed regularly.

And God was at work! Through a vision, an angel directed Cornelius to Peter. But how would Peter respond? Again God communicated through a vision. According to Jewish Law certain foods were forbidden (Leviticus 11). The food law made it difficult for Jews to eat with Gentiles without risking defilement. Peter, a Jew born and bred, needed telling three times before he got the message. Gentiles were not to be seen as unclean or inferior people, God was longing for them to turn to Him. But first, they needed to hear the Good News of Jesus, and Peter was the man for the job!

Change is notoriously difficult to accept, especially when it challenges our deeply held values and beliefs. But change is a process, it begins when we say 'yes' to God and it continues as long as we are prepared to follow where the Spirit leads.

Questions

In what ways have my values and beliefs changed and developed since I became a Christian?

How do they need to change further?

Do I ever put up barriers to resist change? If so, what are they?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, help me to be faithful in prayer like Peter and Cornelius, so that I too can be more open to your will.

Norbury Parish Church, Hazel Grove, Stockport, Cheshire. Telephone: 0161-483 8640