Acts 10:34-48 - The response to Peter's message

 Peter had the most perfect condition prepared for him. He was ready and so was the audience. The Holy Spirit was in total control. What followed after his preaching was inevitable.

Peter's message was concise.  What he shared was basically a summary of his message on the Day of Pentecost. He started with a brief introduction in verses 34-37, reminiscing all that God had done and to show God's impartiality.

Quickly Peter then reviewed the life of Christ in verses 34-37. He then shared about the anointed Jesus and His powerful ministry, how He went about doing good and healing the sick and delivering the oppressed.

Peter assertively said that he and all the other apostles could testify of all that Jesus had done, both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem. However, this Jesus was put to death on a cross (verse 39). But God raised Him from the dead. His resurrection was not a tale, many of them actually saw Him visibly and ate with Him (verses 40-41).

The Lord Jesus Christ gave them instruction to preach to the people, and to solemnly declare that He will be returning, to take His God given appointment as the Judge of all people - the living and the dead (verse 43).

 The mission of  Christ, Peter marvelously concluded, saying, “All the prophets testify about Him that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name.” What a change! Peter's orientation had totally shifted. He said that Jesus did not only die for the Jews but "everyone." Hallelujah!

We are told in verses 44 to 46 what happened to the audience. While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came upon all who heard the message. Those whom Peter had chosen to come with him for this trip, were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit was now poured out even on the Gentiles. How did they know? Verse 46 said they were speaking in tongues and exalting God.

It did not take Peter very long to convince the people. He was interrupted by the special visitation of the Holy Spirit. No altar call was required. there was no necessity for any coaxing. With tender hearts toward God, Cornelius and his household responded to God. Everyone who heard received the forgiveness of sin.

Peter quickly followed up by asking , “Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we did, can he?” So he gave order that they should be baptized in the name of Jesus.
Praise God, Cornelius and his family and friends were baptized. And the converted centurion then invited Peter to stay with them for a few days. What a great time Peter must have had. Gentile converts, baptism and now for the follow-up class.

God is always at work. The important element is: are we ready to be His instrument. Peter was, and so must we.  Be well-versed with the message of the Gospel, but also be ready to share it. Most importantly be expectant as we share, for we can never fully imagine what God will do through us when His Holy Spirit breakthrough.