Controversy, Criticism, Conversation, and Conversion in Community

Controversy

In the preceding chapter, we see Peter’s “conversion” as his eyes were opened to the inclusion of gentiles into the new covenant faith. Isaiah predicted this some seven centuries prior (Isaiah 49:6). This conversion of Peter’s perspective in Acts 10 took an angel, two devout men (Peter and Cornelius), three visions, and an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Peter’s three visions are immediately proceeded with conversations that lead to three invitations: Gentiles into a Jewish home, Jews into a Gentile home, and ultimately Gentiles into God’s new covenant of grace through the blood of Jesus. This epic news spread but so did the Jew-Gentile controversy.

Criticism

As Peter receives perhaps anticipated criticism (vs 2), he now must “convert” the circumcised believers in Jerusalem. He engages them in conversation with details of God’s sovereign plan, “point by point” (vs 4 NET). Peter recounts how God made it clear to him that now is the time for Gentile inclusion. Just as God convinced Peter, Peter then convinced others of God’s will for Gentiles. Peter does not defend himself but focuses on God’s revelation and sovereign hand.

Conversation & Conversion

Controversy and criticism, met with conversations around God’s sovereignty, bring about the “conversion” of these circumcised believers in Jerusalem. “They had no further objections and praised God, saying, ‘So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to salvation.’” (v18)

Community

These conversations began in community and spread in community. Three men are sent by Cornelius (v 11) and Peter takes six men with him to Cornelius’ house (v12). Together these seven Jews cross a Gentile threshold and share the gospel message with a large gathering of Gentiles. From there we see the partnership and unity of the Spirit as the scattered Jews also expand their message to the Greeks (v 20). Conversations in community converted Jewish Christians’ to God’s point of view regarding Gentiles. And the same conversations also converted many Gentiles to God’s covenant of salvation.

Conclusion

I am convicted by Peter’s apparent lack of defensiveness as he is met with criticism. I can get my heart to that humility, but it is often not my first reaction when met with criticism (even deserved criticism). I am equally inspired by how humble conversations in community that focus on God’s sovereignty produce unity and growth of the church. How can I grow in my humility?

How can my conversations revolve around God’s sovereign hand? How could humble conversations centered in God’s sovereignty bring about conversions of perspective as well as conversions into salvation?