Acts 10:20

Context

This verse is a pivotal moment in the Book of Acts, marking a significant expansion of the Gospel beyond its Jewish origins. Earlier in Acts chapter 10, Peter, while praying on a rooftop in Joppa, experienced a profound vision of a sheet descending from heaven filled with all kinds of ceremonially unclean animals. A voice commanded him to "Rise, Peter; kill, and eat." Peter, a devout Jew, initially refused, citing Jewish dietary laws. The vision was repeated three times, emphasizing God's declaration that what He has cleansed should not be called common or unclean. As Peter pondered the meaning of this vision, three men sent by Cornelius, a Roman centurion, arrived at the gate, seeking him out. These men were Gentiles, traditionally considered unclean by Jews. This verse, Acts 10:20, records the Holy Spirit's direct instruction to Peter regarding these visitors.

Key Themes

• Divine Guidance and Sovereignty: The command "for I have sent them" clearly highlights God's active involvement and sovereign orchestration of events. He is leading Peter to a new understanding and a new mission, demonstrating His plan for all humanity.
• Obedience to God's Will: Peter is instructed to "Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing." This call to immediate and unquestioning obedience is central. Despite his previous reservations and cultural barriers, Peter is to trust God's leading.
• Overcoming Prejudice and Doubt: The phrase "doubting nothing" directly addresses Peter's internal struggle and the deeply ingrained Jewish prejudice against Gentiles. It signals that God is breaking down barriers and extending salvation to all people, regardless of ethnic background. This prepares Peter for his later realization that God is no respecter of persons.
• The Inclusion of Gentiles: This command sets the stage for Peter's historic visit to Cornelius's household, which results in the first recorded outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Gentiles. It signifies a monumental shift in the early Christian mission, opening the door for the Gospel to reach beyond Israel to the entire world.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase translated as "doubting nothing" is mēden diakrinomenos (μηδὲν διακρινόμενος). The verb diakrinomai can mean "to doubt, hesitate, waver" or "to make a distinction, to discriminate." In this context, it carries both nuances: Peter is commanded not to hesitate in his obedience, and crucially, not to make a distinction or discriminate against the Gentile visitors based on traditional Jewish purity laws or prejudice. It's a powerful injunction against internal wavering and external prejudice.

Practical Application

For believers today, Acts 10:20 offers profound lessons:

• Trusting God's Unfamiliar Leading: We are often called to step out of our comfort zones or preconceived notions when God leads. This verse encourages us to obey, even when the path is unclear or challenges our personal biases.
• Overcoming Prejudice: God's command to Peter to "doubt nothing" serves as a timeless reminder to examine our own prejudices, whether cultural, racial, or social, and to be open to God's work in and through all people.
• Readiness for Mission: Like Peter, we are called to be ready to go where God sends us, sharing the message of Christ with those whom society might deem "unlikely" or "unclean." The Holy Spirit often directs us to unexpected places and people.