ACTS 10
Peter uses the “keys” for the third and last time as he opens the door of faith to the Gentiles. How wonderful is the providence of God! Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, was being prepared for his life’s work; and Peter was about to break down the ancient barriers between Jews and Gentiles: “Known to God from eternity are all His works” (15:18).
But God had to prepare both Peter and Cornelius. He spoke to Cornelius while he was praying and to Peter while he was relaxing. Be alert to the voice of God; you never know when He may have a word for you.
“Not so, Lord! For I have never . . .” (v. 14) is the response that leads to defeat. God was about to do a new thing, and Peter wanted to hold on to the old. He calls Him Lord but refuses to obey Him! Yet God tenderly instructed Peter, and the apostle surrendered to His will.
Peter did not get to finish his sermon. When he said, “Whosoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins” (v. 43), they believed and were saved. What a great way to stop a sermon!
“You can say “Lord,’ and you can say “Not so,’ but you cannot say, “Not so, Lord.’”
W. Graham Scroggie