4TH WEEK OF EASTER

Peter . . . explained it to them step by step.

Like a celebrity chef or do-it-yourself home repair guru on YouTube, Peter uses a step-by-step approach to explain his actions to the elders in Jerusalem.   Why did he decide to baptize a group of Gentiles in Caesarea?   He walked them through all the steps that God took him through to make this monumental decision.

Let’s see if we can apply Peter’s approach to any decisions we might be facing.

1. God shapes us in prayer.   God began his work by speaking to Peter in prayer.   Of course, a heavenly vision would grab anyone’s attention, but it doesn’t have to be that dramatic.   More often, God works by shaping the way we think as we sit in his presence and ponder his word in Scripture (Acts 11:4-5).

2. He introduces a new idea.   God gave Peter a vision that challenged his way of thinking (Acts 11:6-7).   Similarly, he might take a Scripture passage you are reading and open it up to you in a new, unexpected way.   Or a conversation with a friend might prick your conscience.   These insights don’t always come, but they are worth exploring when they do.

3. He confirms his word.   When Peter struggled to understand God’s word, God persisted (Acts 11:9-10).   Likewise, if a new idea or action persists in your mind, ask the Lord if he is trying to tell you something.

4. He gives us the opportunity to test it out.   When three men from Caesarea showed up with an unexpected invitation, Peter suspected that the Holy Spirit was guiding him, so he moved forward in faith (Acts 11:12).   If you think God is putting you in a situation to test his will, consider acting on it.

5. He shows us the fruit of our decision.   Peter saw the fruit of his stepping out in faith:  Cornelius and his household all began speaking in tongues as Peter preached (Acts 11:15-17)!   You too can test your actions by seeing if they help produce deeper faith, more peace, or even healing and forgiveness.

Peter’s receptivity to the Holy Spirit opened the Church to millions of people, including us.   Who knows what God has in store as each of us follows his leading?

“Lord, mold my heart and mind.   Help me respond to your guidance.”

Psalm 42:2-3; 43:3, 4
John 10:11-18