17 “Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon’s house, stood at the gate 18 and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there.

19 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.”

21 And Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?” 22 And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” 23 So he invited them in to be his guests. The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him.”

Acts 10:17-23 (ESV) 中文

Peter’s ministry

Peter has been ministering outside Jerusalem. He’s healed crippled Aeneas and revived the life of a blessed widow, Dorcas which led many to believe. His next mission is to the gentiles. God gives a vision to a centurion, Cornelius in Caesarea then one to Peter. Now the divine connection occurs.

Divine connection

Just as Peter was contemplating the vision of the previous passage, the men sent by Cornelius from Caesarea arrive after a two day journey. Is this impeccable timing or what? As Peter is wondering what the vision and message about what is holy and what is unclean means, these “unclean” Gentiles arrive and ask for him!

Peter gets it and goes

Though it’s not stated, Peter makes the connection and welcomes them to stay the night – which should not happen under Jewish law. In faith and obedience, Peter sets out the next morning. He had little idea what was next but he stepped out in faith. He wisely brought a few brothers from Joppa, where he has been ministering, with him. God has miraculously prepared him. This is a key point in the advancement of the Gospel and the Kingdom as God extended it to the Gentiles.

RЯeflection

• Has God made some undeniable divine appointments in your life? Would you share in the comments to encourage others and give God the glory? Praise Him again for what He did.
• Is God calling you out of your comfort zone? Is there a new ministry He has brought to your attention? Maybe it’s a new acquaintance who needs to hear the Gospel or be encouraged in their faith.