Monday, August 10, 2009

Acts 11

Two things impress me that Peter says when he comes back to Jerusalem and meets with the other apostles and disciples and they "contend" with him about gentiles being baptized. This was more than just a sharp right turn for the church. In answer to their earnest questions of why, Peter recounts his vision and the angelic visit to Cornelius. Then says that there "was nothing doubting." Peter knew and he acted on what he knew. He says that when he saw the Holy Ghost fall on Cornelius and his household, "Who was I, that I could withstand God?"

So many times we fight against the things we already know are true. Like Paul, we kick against those sharp little spiritual sticks that keep nagging at us with their little prods. We may wonder why life seems a bit meaningless. It's so much easier to go with and trust the Spirit. It will not lead us anywhere except to more happiness, more success, and more peace of mind. Sometimes it means a little change of direction, and sometimes it means a sharp right turn. Regardless, the change is always to something better.

On hearing Peter's testimony, the rest of the 12 and the others gathered accept it and they "glorified God." Then we're told how the church is spreads remarkably throughout the Mediterranean. People seem to refer them as Christians in the same way people refer to us as Mormons.

I would like to know more about the Prophet Agabus. He predicts a famine in Jerusalem which actually happened in 46 a.d. He also predicts Paul's imprisonment later in Acts. The apostles recognize Agabus as a prophet because they prepare for the famine by sending food and supplies to the members of the church.

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