Acts 11:1

"Acts."

Key Reflection

In Acts 11:1, the apostles and other believers in Judea hear that Gentiles have also received the word of God. This event was significant because it challenged the initial understanding among Jewish Christians about the inclusion of non-Jews within the Christian community. The cultural context reflects a shift from the earlier emphasis on salvation through circumcision and adherence to Mosaic law, as outlined in the Old Testament (e.g., Acts 15:1). This news would have required reevaluation and possibly adjustment of established beliefs regarding the scope of God's salvific work in the world.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

CHAPTER 11 Verse 1. And the apostles and brethren. The Christians who were in Judea. Heard, etc. So extraordinary an occurrence as that at Caesarea, the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles, and their reception into the church, would excite attention, and be likely to produce much sensibility in regard to the conduct of Peter and those with him. It was so contrary to all the ideas of the Jews, that it is not to be wondered at that it led to contention. __________________________________________________________________

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