Acts 11 :: Just as...

Acts 11 in The Message and TNIV translations

This morning, I listened to chapter 11 a few times and one phrase jumped out at me.  Peter is explaining to leaders and friends in Jerusalem what had happened at Joppa with Cornelius.  In verse 15, he says "So I started in, talking.  Before I'd spoken a half dozen sentences the Holy Spirit fell on them just as he did on us the first time."

The Jews Peter is speaking to are upset that he would go and hang out with the Romans like he did.  Peter has had an awakening that the Gospel is not just for the Jews like them, but for everyone.  I am thankful that Peter heard from God on this matter because I am not a Jewish person.  I am thankful that Peter was willing to go back and fight for the vision God had laid on his heart.

• Just as the Holy Spirit was poured out on the group of Jewish apostles at Pentecost, he lands on the Romans.
• Just as God was accessible to the priests, He is accessible to us.
• Just as the Holy Spirit would interpret the written scriptures to the religious elite, he will do so for you and for me.
• Just as Jesus loved the ones who love him, he loves the ones who don't.
• Just as Jesus loves the "good Christians," he reaches out to the desolate.
• Just as the Holy Spirit leads a pastor, he can lead you.
• Just as God loves the nuclear family who attends church every week, God also loves the lesbian couple trying to raise their son.
• Just as God loves the successful business person, God also loves the drunk on the corner that needs a home.
• Just as God loves the church out on the edge trying to be missional, he loves the high church downtown that continues steeped in their traditions.
• Just as...just as...just as...

I believe all people are loved by God and need Jesus Christ as their Savior.  Really?