ACTS of the Apostles - Learning How to be Daring & Dynamic

Read Acts 10:34-48

Focus Verses: Act 10:44-45 While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles.

The intentionality of our God is amazing to me. The preparation that went into Peter's visit with Cornelius in Missy's section yesterday always convicts my heart that God's got it! Whatever "it" is, He is working out the details before, after, and all in the middle.

Today, we have read Peter's amazed response. The Passion Translation says, "Now I know for certain that God doesn't show favoritism with people but treats everyone on the same basis."

The "mystery" of the Gospel that Paul speaks about repeatedly in his letters is the reality that relationship with God is for everyone, not just the Jews. And, relationship with God is through Jesus Christ, not the law.

But, old habits are hard to break! Throughout the rest of Acts and church history in general, we will be reminded that human nature continues to want to create boundaries around the Gospel. We want there to be rules associated with who gets this grace and relationship. God forgive us, we WANT there to be favoritism.

Today, rest in the truth that our God doesn't show favoritism. Also, glory in the beauty that He has plenty of grace and plenty of Himself for all who'd receive. His love isn't scarce, so we can all have relationship with Him in abundance.

Reawaken your own heart to the good news, and then share it with some one!

God, help us to solve this mystery in our hearts every, single day. You gave us Jesus. And, He made grace, freedom, truth, and relationship available to ALL who would receive. Let that reality fall fresh on us today. We need you! Amen.