Acts 10:44-48
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Then Peter said, “Can anyone keep these people from being baptized with water? They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.
Reflection
This is the conclusion of the story of Peter ministering to the Roman Centurion, Cornelius, and his entire household. What is significant about this story is that this seems to be the first recorded account of non-Jewish people (Gentiles) believing in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and becoming disciples.
Prior to this event the people who were becoming disciples of Jesus would then continue to practice their Jewish faith, following all the rules, rituals and regulations. The church was brave enough to dare to change so that the good news of Jesus could be made available to a vast number of people. Why did the church take this courageous step: Because they wanted the gospel to be made available to everyone and they wanted to make disciples.
How does the church of today need to change so that we can become more effective in making disciples?
