By Andrew Williams
“Even as Peter was saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening to the message. The Jewish believers who came with Peter were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles, too. For they heard them speaking in other tongues and praising God. Then Peter asked, ‘Can anyone object to their being baptized, now that they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did?’ So he gave orders for them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Afterward, Cornelius asked him to stay with them for several days.” Acts 10:44-48 (NLT)
Good morning fellow disciples.
This passage captures a monumental moment in the early church: the Holy Spirit being poured out upon Gentiles as Peter proclaimed the Gospel. This outpouring signified God’s acceptance of all people, regardless of their background. The Jewish believers who accompanied Peter were astonished, as they witnessed Gentiles receiving the same gift of the Holy Spirit that they themselves had experienced.
This event demonstrates the power of God’s Word and the inclusivity of the Gospel. Without any barriers, the Holy Spirit came upon those who believed, confirming that salvation through Jesus Christ was for everyone. Peter’s immediate response was to recognize this divine work and order the baptism of Cornelius and the other Gentile believers. This moment reinforced that no one is excluded from God’s family when they believe in Christ and receive the Holy Spirit.
This passage empowers us to see that God’s grace and Spirit are for all people. It reminds us that the power of the Gospel breaks down barriers—cultural, racial, and social—and unites us as one body in Christ. As disciples, we are called to embrace this truth and redirect our focus from any prejudice or preconceived ideas to God’s heart for all nations and people. The same Holy Spirit who worked in the lives of Cornelius and his household is working in and through us today, equipping us to share the Gospel and celebrate the unity we have in Christ.
This week, examine your heart and ask the Lord to reveal any barriers—whether personal biases, fear, or hesitation—that might prevent you from fully embracing His mission to reach all people. Take a practical step by connecting with someone from a different background or culture and sharing God’s love with them. Redirect your focus from earthly differences to the unity we all share in Christ through the Holy Spirit. Celebrate the diversity of God’s kingdom and pray for His Spirit to work powerfully in the lives of those you encounter.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit and for showing me that Your love and salvation are for everyone. I praise You for breaking barriers and uniting us as one family in Christ. Forgive me for any attitudes or thoughts that have limited my view of Your mission. Redirect my focus to Your heart for all people, and use me as a vessel to share Your message of grace and unity. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can boldly proclaim Your love and celebrate the work You are doing in the lives of others. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
