WEDNESDAY May 24, 2023
Unnecessary Contention
Now the apostles and brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him, saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!”
Acts 11:1-3
Through the book of Acts, I find it amazing to watch and see God’s plan of salvation unfold. The Gospel spread first in Jerusalem, then to Judea, continuing on to Samaria, and onward into the entire world.
It all began with Jesus, the Master Teacher, as He chose 12 men to disciple. They would turn the world upside down for Jesus Christ, but one of them, Judas, betrayed Him (Luke 6:12-16). During His ministry, the Lord sent out another 70 followers to share the Good News (Luke 10:1-23). After His death and Resurrection, 120 believers united in prayer in an upper room where they were filled with the Holy Spirit. On the Day of Pentecost, believers were empowered to spread the Gospel (Acts 2).
In Jewish culture, a Gentile was not allowed in a Jew’s home, nor could they enter into a Gentile’s home. When Peter returned to Jerusalem, he was confronted by brethren who still adhered to the Law. They contended with Peter and accused him of compromising. Peter would rehearse the events by which God ministered to him to preach the Gospel among the Gentiles; their contention was unnecessary.
Cornelius was a Roman, but he loved going to the Jewish synagogue and sought the Lord through prayer. When God saw the genuine heart of this man, He sent Peter to him. Through God’s love and mercy, Peter went straight into his home and brought the Gospel message to the Gentiles who were eager to listen to him. Amazing, amazing!
To have a proper understanding of the gospel, we must recognize that we need to lean entirely upon the Lord Jesus Christ and his mercy alone as our only hope of salvation. … No one can be justified by the law; justification is through faith alone.
~John Calvin~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
