January 19, 2012

Acts 10:1-23 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 6:25-34, Psalm 16, Genesis 31

Journal Entry

Scripture

13 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” 16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven. (Acts 10:13-16)

Observation

Peter, one of the three disciples which were closest to Jesus; one who denied Jesus 3 times and later restored; now, after the resurrection of Jesus doing the will of God and standing boldly before people to proclaim Jesus... At the same time, he is a Jew and the tradition and the teaching of the Old Testament were strongly evident in his life. Though Peter witnessed Jesus defying the traditional laws many times, such as Sabbath laws by performing healings, God had to teach him the new and the better way than the old tradition. It is custom and Jewish law that one cannot eat what is considered "unclean", but God is testing and teaching Peter that what God made is not "unclean". God was making the point that He loves all people whether they are Jew or Gentiles and therefore, there is no distinction when it comes to hearing and believing in Him. By showing the sheets full of what Peter would consider "unclean" animal and reptiles and commanding Peter to eat, God was telling Peter to forsake the old way of thinking and embrace the new and accurate way of God. God had to do this not once, twice, but three times to affirm. Even then, only after further confirmation of an Angel, was Peter willing to accept.
I know we can find ourselves in the same boat with Peter today. We wouldn't necessary struggle with eating something that would be considered "unclean", but we still have difficulties of "doing", "acting", or "thinking" certain way because it is not acceptable in today's setting among Christians. An example would be hanging around with "gay" or "homosexual" people (last week's sermon), but we know that they need the gospel as much as other non-believers do.
I believe we need to shift our thinking and see from God's point of view and be bold to stand up for God's truth rather than being cowards because what others might say about what we are doing.

Application

It is very easy for me to act to fit into being a "good" christian and behave within the boundaries of what would be acceptable. However, I should and be able to step outside of such boundaries to reach the lost and be available to do and go as God commands. I will be looking at thing with much more open mindedness and try to see from God's perspective rather than from human perspectives and with human restrictions.

Prayer

Lord, cause me to see things from your view and your perspectives. Help me to identify and forsake the ideas and traditions that are no longer pleasing you. When called upon to do what would be "out or ordinary", help me to do it without hesitation and with boldness for your kingdom and for your glory. Help me to be your servant wholly devoted and sold out to you to do your will today and everyday. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen!

--kc