Exploring the Book of Acts: Missional CommunitySample

No Favouritism

Peter’s ministry in the home of the Roman centurion, Cornelius, is one of the decisive events of the early church. While Peter preached the gospel at Cornelius’ house, the Holy Spirit was poured out as at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-11), and soon the entire household was baptised in the name of Jesus. Soon after, Peter experienced criticism from Jewish believers for eating with Gentiles. Peter’s retelling of the experience provided clear evidence that God was supernaturally at work. The Holy Spirit had commanded him to go to Cornelius and made it clear by the giving of the Spirit that God does not show favouritism.

Read Acts 10:44-11:18 and then consider:

1. What is the significance of the Holy Spirit falling upon Cornelius and his household while Peter was still speaking? What does it reveal about God?
2. Eating together was a foundational expression of the Christian community (Acts 2:42, 46). How does Peter’s willingness to eat with uncircumcised believers reveal his understanding of the nature of fellowship in Christ?
3. Many circumcised believers (i.e., Jewish) were scandalised by Peter’s behaviour. What were they concerned about? How does Peter respond to their criticism?
4. Discrimination in its various forms has great power to destroy the unity and witness of the Body of Christ. In your context, what beliefs and attitudes separate believers from one another? Ask God to reveal any bigotry in your heart and actions. Repent and take steps to overcome these barriers to unity in the local and global church.