16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? 18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life (Acts 11:16-18).
Peter is describing and defending his actions towards Cornelius (the Roman Centurion) to the church at Jerusalem. The church was initially protesting Peter’s action of associating with Gentiles. However, after hearing Peter’s account, all protest stopped. The church realized that God had elected to save based on His choice, and that this salvation was extended to all that respond through faith and repent. Also notice too that the stoning of Stephen, the conversion of Paul and the opening of the Gospel to all peoples occurred closely together. They are connected according to both God’s sovereign plan and will. It is God’s will to have people from all nations become disciples.
Peter is describing and defending his actions towards Cornelius (the Roman Centurion) to the church at Jerusalem. The church was initially protesting Peter’s action of associating with Gentiles. However, after hearing Peter’s account, all protest stopped. The church realized that God had elected to save based on His choice, and that this salvation was extended to all that respond through faith and repent. Also notice too that the stoning of Stephen, the conversion of Paul and the opening of the Gospel to all peoples occurred closely together. They are connected according to both God’s sovereign plan and will. It is God’s will to have people from all nations become disciples.
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