Reading for May 22nd

 Read Acts 10.17-43. In verse 19: Since he was still thinking about the vision Peter got his first signal of their presence directly from the Spirit. In verse 20: He was to go without hesitation, which meant no delay, distinctions, or objections (v. 29; Jas 2.4). In verse 22: Compare v. 2. In verse 23: Peter's hospitality already begins to diminish the boundary, unless it is assumed the "slaves" and "devout soldier"(v. 7) were Jews (v. 28). In verses 25-26: Worship here could simply mean acknowledgment of authority in oriental homage, but it could imply a blasphemous confusion of a mortal and God (14.15). In verse 28: The boundaries of what was lawful in relationships between Jews and gentiles were  drawn carefully in various Jewish traditions, but few were so strict as to prevent association or visits (see Jesus in Lk 7.7). In verse 34: In Deut 10.17, not showing partiality means dispensing justice fairly, without regard to social standing. The Christians saw this principle as lying behind God's readiness to receive Gentiles who did righteous acts (vv. 4, 31; Rom 2.10-11). In verses 36-43: This is one of the most compact summaries of early Christian preaching. In verse 36: God's message to the people of Israel in Jesus Christ was peace (Lk 1.79; 2.14; 7.50; 8.48; 10.5-6; 19.38; 24.36). The acclamation, "he is Lord of all," implies Jesus' exaltation (Acts 2.34-36) In verses 37-38: Jesus' anointing, or being made messiah was God's work, after John's baptism (Lk 2.20, 21-22). God was still with him is a scriptural phrase emphasizing God's agency (Acts 7.9). In verse 41: Chosen by God as witnesses refers to those who were witnesses to his resurrection, especially the twelve apostles (Lk 24.48; Acts 1.8, 22; 2.32; 3.15; 5.32). In verse 42: The people here are Israel. Jesus' role as ultimate judge is also underscored in 17.31. In verse 43: Luke continues the emphasis on all the prophets (Lk 24.27, 44), now as ratifying he radicle message of forgiveness for everyone one through faith (Rom 1.21-26). Comment s or Questions..