Daily Devotional | God's Growth Strategy

Every child has heard their parent say, “How many times do I have to tell you?” The answer to this rhetorical question is always the same: More than once! Perhaps this is why we find repetition in Scripture. Today’s passage is no exception. Luke has already described these events. Why does he choose to repeat them again here? One reason is that they have historical significance. Luke is simply describing what Peter said to those who questioned him. Another reason is to emphasize their importance. The spread of the gospel to the Gentiles was a significant development in the church’s mission. One that some had difficulty accepting.

Luke’s account of Peter’s meeting with the apostles emphasizes two important facts. First, it was God who initiated the mission to the Gentiles (v. 12). Peter did not hesitate to enter the home of Cornelius because he knew God had worked on both sides to make the connection. It was clearly the leading of the Spirit.

Second, the apostles and the rest of the believers in Judea rejoiced over this development (v. 18). God used Peter to open the door, but he was not the only one God used to reach out to the Gentiles. Some from Cyprus and Cyrene proclaimed the gospel to Greeks in Antioch. Located in Syria, Antioch was one of the largest cities in the Roman empire. So many responded to the gospel that the church in Jerusalem sent Barnabas to investigate. Satisfied that what was taking place was a work of God, Barnabas promptly went to Tarsus to find Saul and bring him to Antioch. The two of them spent a year there teaching these new believers.

>> Christians need other Christians to grow in faith and practice. Who is the Barnabas or Saul in your life? Not only do we need the challenge and encouragement of other believers in our lives, but we might be that person for someone else. Whom can you serve today?

Pray with Us

Lord Jesus, your plan for bringing the gospel to the Gentiles was fulfilled wondrously in Acts. We pray for an open heart and spiritual insight to bring the gospel to those who don’t know you.

BY Dr. John Koessler

John Koessler is Professor Emeritus of Applied Theology and Church Ministries at Moody Bible Institute. John authors the “Practical Theology” column for Today in the Word of which he is also a contributing writer and theological editor. An award-winning author, John’s newest title is When God is Silent: Let the Bible Teach You to Pray (Kirkdale). Prior to joining the Moody faculty, he served as a pastor of Valley Chapel in Green Valley, Illinois, for nine years. He and his wife, Jane, now enjoy living in a lakeside town in Michigan.