Apparently the idea that Peter would associate with a Gentile is a problem for the apostles and brothers throughout Judea. It's hard to understand the depth of this prejudice, remembering the conversation Jesus had with the Samaritan woman in John 4. Fortunately, Peter's explanation opens the door for widespread acceptance of the idea that Gentiles are welcome in the family of God.
But that takes me back to Acts 10 - Cornelius is described as devout and God-fearing. I assume the God he fears is the God of the Jewish people he lives among, but why would a Gentile desire to worship a God whose people consider outsiders to be unclean and whose law forbids them to associate with him? That's the part I don't get.
I'm glad we have a record of the events in Acts 11 to eliminate the separation of Jews and Gentiles within the church, a necessary step in God's plan to redeem the whole world.
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