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A Recap from Sunday’s Sermon

Preaching Text: Acts 10:9-23

Although it is certainly a religion, Christianity is primarily a relationship. One of the last things Jesus said to his followers was a promise to always be with us. Therefore, becoming a Christian is about having a personal walk with the Living God. “As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in him” (Colossians 2:6).

Jesus offers a real relationship with two-way communication.

Any real relationship requires communication. Acts 10 shows several different ways that God speaks to his people. The text is about the conversion of Cornelius to Christianity and also a sort of conversion of Peter to be open to Gentiles. God brought several things together to get Peter’s attention. These are still common ways that God communicates with us.

1. Peter had a regular rhythm of prayer (Verse 9). He was engaged in the noontime prayers. Peter, on his part, was actively listening for God.

2. While praying, Peter saw a vision, or a mental image. The promise of visions and dreams is part of the fulfillment of Pentecost (Acts. 2:17).

3. Peter heard a voice speaking to him. This may have been audible, or he might have heard it in his head, but he understood it. Elsewhere, Scripture refers to this as the “low whisper” of God (1 Kings 19:12).

4. The attendant circumstances pointed Peter in a direction. When he reflected upon their significance, he knew what to do.

These and other methods are very much a part of God’s regular communication with his people. It starts with an invitation into the relationship, and then continues throughout life. Are you listening and obeying God’s voice?

Taking it home: Discuss your level of openness to hearing God. Describe a time when you thought God might have spoken to you.