In Acts chapter 11 we see how the early church begins to understand that God’s plan stretches far beyond any human boundary. The chapter opens with a challenging situation in Jerusalem. Some of our brothers and sisters had criticized Peter for entering the house of uncircumcised men and eating with them. They could not understand why he would share a meal with those whom the law had long set apart. In response, Peter tells his story, recounting the divine vision he received. He explains how God had shown him a vision of a large sheet filled with various animals. A voice had told him, “What God has made clean, you must not call common.” Peter relates that he had hesitated at first because everything in the vision appeared unclean to him, yet the command of God was clear. As we listen to Peter’s account, we are reminded that God’s way is not confined by our traditions or human expectations. His revelation is meant to break down walls, just as it is written in Galatians 3:28, where we are reminded that in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, for all are one.
Peter continues by explaining how he had gone to the house of a man named Cornelius—a centurion who was God-fearing and devout. When Peter arrived, he found that the Holy Spirit had fallen on all who heard the message, just as it had on us in earlier times. This was a powerful confirmation that God was granting the gift of the Spirit to the Gentiles as well, making them equal partners in the faith. For Peter, this was not simply an isolated event, but a sign that God was actively drawing all people into a renewed relationship with Him. As we consider his words, we are encouraged to embrace the idea that the invitation of the gospel is extended to every heart, without limitation. It reminds us of Romans 10:12, where we learn that there is no distinction between Jews and Gentiles when it comes to the grace of God.
The council in Jerusalem listens intently to Peter’s defense, and though there is still some initial astonishment, they too glorify God, recognizing that God had granted the Gentiles the opportunity for repentance to life. This moment is transformative for the community in Jerusalem. It opens their eyes to a broader vision of God’s kingdom—a kingdom that is not exclusive to one people group, but is meant for all who would come to Him. We are invited to see that our own journey of faith is marked by similar moments of unexpected inclusion and renewal.
The narrative then shifts its focus to the developments outside of Jerusalem, particularly in the city of Antioch. We read how a great number of people, both Jews and Gentiles, had come together in worship and fellowship. The believers in Antioch had a vibrant and growing community where the gospel was not only preached but experienced through the power of the Spirit. Barnabas, a man known for his encouraging nature, comes into the picture as he is sent from Jerusalem to Antioch. His role is to support and nurture the growing church there, affirming that God’s work is far from being limited to one geographical location or one cultural tradition. We learn that during this time the disciples were first called Christians—a term that reflected the unique identity formed around the life and teachings of Jesus.
In Antioch, the unity and diversity of God’s people become evident. The church there was marked by both deep commitment and an openness to learning from one another. We see that the word of the Lord spread in a way that allowed people to encounter Jesus in personal, transformative ways. The believers there gathered together, taught one another, and supported one another in love and prayer. This period of growth is not just a historical detail but a living reminder to us that God’s invitation remains open. It challenges us to break down any barriers within our own communities and to welcome all who seek a relationship with Christ.
Acts chapter 11 also highlights the importance of communication and mutual support among the early churches. When the news of the Gentile believers in Antioch reaches Jerusalem, those who were there rejoice and send Barnabas and Saul to encourage the new converts. This exchange of encouragement shows us that the early church was not a collection of isolated groups, but rather a network of believers united in their common mission. It teaches us that our strength as a community lies in our willingness to support one another, to share in each other’s joys, and to work together to further God’s kingdom.
As we reflect on Acts 11, we see that the chapter is not only a historical record but also a call for us today. It asks us to consider how we view inclusion and how we respond to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. We learn that God’s work is not limited by our human categories and that the grace offered through Jesus Christ transcends any cultural or ethnic divide. The experiences of Peter, Cornelius, Barnabas, and the believers of Antioch invite us to expand our vision and to be more inclusive in our own lives. In embracing these lessons, we are encouraged to build communities that reflect the love and unity that God intends for us all.