Acts 11

When the Jewish believers heard that Peter had ministered to Cornelius, their first reaction was of prejudice. It should have been thankfulness and rejoicing. Peter then explained his visions and instructions from God. They then rejoiced.

Revival in the Church brings us in contact with all types of people. When we pray for and then enter into a great Harvest, the hurting, hungry, desperate and destitute flood our doors. They may be dirty or stink when we rub shoulders with them. When they come to church, they may not understand our traditions and etiquette. This is no cause to shun them, instead we should open our arms and homes to them. Show them the love and the way of Christ. After all, what God has cleaned, we cannot call unclean. (Verse 8) We must view them with God's eyes; through the veil of the Blood.

Verse 26 refers to the first time believers were called Christians. I find it interesting that believers were not called Christians, meaning "followers of Christ" or "Christ-like", until they had moved beyond their prejudices. Let us all strive to be true Christians and welcome with open arms the souls that He brings into our influence.

Keith Mathews