By
Shelby G. Floyd
In the book of Acts we have the record of Peter’s sermon which he spoke to the household of Cornelius (Acts 10:34-43). Cornelius was a Gentile and had invited his family and close friends to be present on this occasion.
God Does Not Show Favoritism
It is very interesting to read about what Peter said to Cornelius and his friends. First, Peter admitted that God had convinced him that he is no respecter of people, but will accept people from all nations who fear him and do what is right:
“I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right” (Acts 10: 34-35).
Next, he pointed out that Jesus of Nazareth went about doing good things until the Jews killed him, hanging him on a tree. “We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a tree, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen” (Acts 10:39-40).
Peter’s Sermon Was Interrupted
Near the conclusion of Peter’s sermon he was interrupted by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles (Acts 10: 44-46).
Faith in Christ Precedes Forgiveness of Sins
We notice that the last thing he said before the interruption began was that everyone who believed on Christ would receive forgiveness of sins:
“All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name” (Acts 10: 43).
Water Baptism Also Precedes Forgiveness of Sins
After the interruption was over, the first thing that he said to them was,
“Can anyone keep these people from being baptized with water? …So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 10:47-48).
Have you been baptized for the forgiveness of sins? This doctrine is Biblical, being clearly taught by Jesus (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16), and the apostles (Acts 22:16; Romans 6:1-6; Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21.) Remember, Christ is the author of eternal salvation unto all them who obey him (Hebrews 5:8-9).
Shelby G. Floyd
shelby@thefloyds.net
Copyright © 2014 Shelby Floyd All Rights Reserved