YOUNG CHURCH: The Gospel to the Gentiles
Overview
In Acts 11-12, we see a pivotal moment in the early church’s history. The gospel, once focused on the Jewish people, begins to spread to the Gentiles. This shift is marked by Peter’s groundbreaking ministry, where God shows him that the message of Jesus is not limited to one group but is for all people. Peter’s encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion, challenges the prevailing mindset of the time, and God’s message is made clear: the gospel is for everyone, breaking down cultural and racial barriers.
However, the expansion of the gospel is met with opposition. The church faces persecution, and James, one of Jesus’ disciples, is martyred. But even in the face of adversity, the gospel continues to advance. Peter’s miraculous escape from prison reminds us that God’s mission will not be thwarted, no matter the obstacles.
The early church had to wrestle with the truth that God's mission is global and inclusive. As we reflect on this passage, we are invited to consider how we, too, can embrace God’s heart for all people, crossing boundaries and barriers to reach those who are different from us.
Read
Acts 10:9-16 NIV
"About noon the following day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles and birds. Then a voice told him, 'Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.' 'Surely not, Lord!' Peter replied. 'I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.' The voice spoke to him a second time, 'Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.'"
Acts 11:17-18 NIV
"So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way? When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, 'So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.'"
Acts 12:5-7 NIV
"So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. 'Quick, get up!' he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists."
Discuss
How does Peter’s experience with Cornelius challenge the cultural barriers of his time? How do you think God is calling you to challenge these barriers today?
What can we learn from the early church’s reaction to the gospel being extended to the Gentiles? How do we react when people who are different from us come to faith?
James' death and Peter’s escape both show us that following Jesus often comes with risks. How can we stay committed to God’s mission even in the face of opposition?
In Acts 11:17, Peter realizes that God’s gift of salvation is for everyone. How does this verse shape your understanding of God’s inclusivity?
What role do you think we, as the modern church, should play in breaking down cultural barriers when it comes to evangelism?
What is one personal barrier you might need to overcome in sharing the gospel with someone who doesn’t look, think, or act like you?
God’s mission continued to advance even after persecution. How does this encourage you to keep pressing on in your own faith journey, even when life gets tough?
Peter’s story shows us that God is always at work behind the scenes. How have you seen God working in ways you didn’t expect in your own life?
Call to Action
Embrace Diversity: Take intentional steps to engage with people from different backgrounds this week. Whether through conversations, serving, or praying, look for opportunities to break down walls and reach out.
Pray for Boldness: Ask God to help you share the gospel fearlessly with those who don’t know Him, regardless of their race, culture, or background. Pray for opportunities to love and welcome people like God welcomes us.
Reflect on God’s Heart: Take time this week to reflect on how you can better embody God’s heart for people who are different than you. Write down any specific actions you feel led to take in order to welcome others into the family of Christ.
