Feb 21 2013
A Voice in the Desert
“Jews getting baptized?” queried Joshua, his eyebrows raised in surprise. “Yes, lots from all over Judea,” said Zaccheus, “And not just common folk either. You remember that educated guy from Alexandria, Apollos? I saw him too!” “But we’re Jews, Zach! Why do we need to be baptized? We are God’s people!” “Well you should hear the preacher. He said some interesting stuff Josh. He said the Messiah is among us, that his rule is about to begin, and that when it does, God’s Spirit is going to come on all of us. He’s baptizing anyone who wants a part in it.” Joshua stared back at Zaccheus trying to read his mind, “And you believe it?” “Maybe,” said Zaccheus, “We need the Messiah now Josh. I’m tired of these Romans.” Joshua thought for a moment, “Now you’re talking Zach. Anything but Rome! Perhaps I should hear this preacher for myself. What did you say his name was?” “He’s called John. He looks like a Nazirite; everyone says he’s a prophet.” “If he gets this right we won’t question it!” snapped Joshua, “Let’s go!” More
Jun 6 2013
Cornelius’ House
Acts 10:1-11:18
As Peter entered the house he was shocked to see that it was crowded with Romans. These were Cornelius’ friends and family; a mixture of military personnel and civilians with their wives and a few others. Never before had Peter preached to Gentiles, and certainly not this type. Romans! But this was Caesarea, the military headquarters of Judea, and this was Cornelius the Centurion’s house, a man who was in command of a hundred soldiers. God had told Peter to respond to Cornelius’ request to come, but he did not expect such an audience.
Now these Romans had served long enough in Judea to know that a Jew wasn’t supposed to enter a Gentile’s home, so Peter quickly explained that had God had spoken to him and had shown him that he was not to consider a Gentile impure or unclean. Just the day before God had given Peter a vision More