Acts 10:28

“And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.”

Context:In Acts 10, we find the account of Peter’s vision and the conversion of Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Prior to this event, the early Christian community consisted mainly of Jewish believers, and there was a strong cultural and religious distinction between Jews and Gentiles. Jewish dietary laws and social customs forbade Jews from associating with Gentiles, considering them unclean.

Cultural Background:To understand the significance of Acts 10:28, it’s important to recognise the cultural context of the time. Jewish people considered themselves God’s chosen nation, and their laws emphasised separation from Gentiles. Mixing with Gentiles was seen as a violation of the Jewish religious and cultural identity.

Peter’s Vision:In verses 9-16, Peter has a vision while he is praying on the rooftop. In the vision, he sees a sheet descending from heaven with various animals, including those considered unclean according to Jewish dietary laws. A voice instructs him to kill and eat, but Peter objects, stating that he has never eaten anything unclean. The voice responds, “What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common” (Acts 10:15, KJV).

Peter’s Encounter with Cornelius:Immediately after the vision, messengers from Cornelius arrive and invite Peter to visit him. Cornelius is a Gentile, a devout man who feared God and performed acts of charity. In obedience to the vision, Peter agrees to go with the messengers.

Peter’s Declaration:Upon arriving at Cornelius’ house, Peter addresses the gathering, acknowledging the cultural barrier between Jews and Gentiles. He states that it is unlawful for a Jew to keep company with or visit a Gentile. However, Peter goes on to explain that God has shown him something new, a revelation that challenges this cultural norm.

Divine Revelation:Peter declares that God has shown him not to call any man common or unclean. This statement reveals a profound shift in Peter’s understanding. He recognises that God’s perspective transcends cultural and religious boundaries. In God’s eyes, no person is to be considered unclean or unworthy based on their nationality or background.

Implications and Application:

• Acts 10:28 highlights the universal nature of the Gospel message. The barrier between Jews and Gentiles is being broken down through the work of Jesus Christ. This event marks a significant step toward the inclusion of Gentiles in the early Christian community and emphasises that salvation is available to all people, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background.

This verse also challenges believers today to examine their own attitudes and prejudices. It reminds us that God’s love extends to all people, and as followers of Christ, we are called to love and accept others, regardless of their differences.

In conclusion, Acts 10:28 represents a pivotal moment in the early church, signalling the breaking of cultural barriers and the realisation that God’s love and salvation are for all people. It encourages us to embrace the diversity of humanity and to treat every individual with dignity and respect.