Mission Devotional Day 23
I truly understand that God shows no partiality
Mission Devotional Day 23
READ: Acts 10
In this long story about Peter and the centurion named Cornelius, Luke describes the early church’s struggle to understand whether or not one first had to become a follower of Moses in order to follow Jesus. In other words, “Could a non-Jew become a Christian?” We know from Acts 9 that God is doing something new in his mission because Paul has been appointed an apostle to the gentiles. Still, this was something that the church struggled with. After Cornelius’ encounter at Caesarea shakes him to the core of all that he held dear, Peter concludes, “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation, anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.” When the Holy Spirit is poured out upon Cornelius and the others, Peter understands that there is nothing to prevent them from being baptized. Peter certainly is not going to stand in the way!
But widespread change came slowly. We read in Acts 15 that a council of the church convened in Jerusalem to address this issue because some still struggled. This council took place in 50 AD, 20 years after the resurrection.
Down through the centuries, the church has often wrestled with what should be required of those who want to become followers of Christ. The church has tended to make itself a kind of gatekeeper, adding its own peripheral requirements to the foundational confession of Jesus as Lord and Savior. At times, the church has required of people faith in Jesus and “something else.” It might be particular theology, some moral practice, or a pattern of behavior. But Peter’s experience would inform the discernment of the church. There wasn’t room for requiring people to give themselves to Moses in order to follow Jesus. Jesus was sufficient and people of any tribe and tongue and background were welcome if they placed their faith and trust in him.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
Can you think of an example of an instance where the church imposed additional requirements upon those who desired to profess their faith in Christ and become part of his visible body?
Why do you suppose that Christians at times have asked or even demanded more of those who wish to declare their faith in Christ than Jesus himself does?
PRAYER
I thank you, Lord, that your grace is for all people. Help me to welcome any and all into your presence. Free me from the temptation of trying to manage others life in you. Amen.