What does Acts 10:29 mean?

Explanation

In Acts 10:29, the apostle Peter is speaking to a gathering at the house of Cornelius, a centurion who is considered a God-fearing man although he is not Jewish.

Peter had received a vision from God which convinced him to set aside Jewish dietary laws and prejudices and to go with the men Cornelius had sent without objections.

The phrase "without gainsaying" means "without hesitation" or "without objection".

Peter is acknowledging that he came promptly in response to the summons and is now asking for the specific reason as to why Cornelius had sent for him.

This marks a significant moment where Peter is opening up to the idea that God’s message through Jesus Christ is meant for all peoples, not just the Jews.

Historical Context

The Book of Acts was written by Luke as a continuation of his Gospel, most likely around AD 80-90.

Acts 10 features a significant event in the early Christian church where the Jewish apostle Peter is called to visit Cornelius, a Gentile.

This event occurs within the larger context of the spread of Christianity beyond Jewish communities into the Gentile world.

The Jews had strict laws regarding interactions with Gentiles and dietary practices, making Peter's visit to a Roman officer's house highly unusual and culturally significant.

This chapter represents a pivotal moment in the transition of Christianity from a Jewish sect to a universal faith.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, the passage underscores the belief in divine guidance and the importance of obedience to God's revelations.

It challenges the Jewish exclusivism of the time and suggests that salvation through Jesus Christ is not confined to the Jewish people but extends to all of humanity.

This aligns with the Christian doctrine of the universality of the gospel message.

Additionally, the passage highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as a guide and revelatory agent in the early church.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can inspire believers to be open to divine guidance in unexpected areas of life and to engage with people different from themselves.

The readiness of Peter to visit Cornelius, despite potential criticism, serves as a model for inclusivity and a call to challenge societal norms that oppose the embracing of diversity within the context of Christian fellowship.

It also encourages the faithful to ask for clarity and understanding when called to new situations, rather than proceeding with assumptions or prejudice.

Cross-References

• Acts 10:20 - "Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them."
• Acts 10:28 - "And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean."
• Acts 11:1-3 - "And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them."

• Galatians 3:28 - "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."

Language Study

• "Without gainsaying" (Ανεντός/Anentos in Greek): Implies without resistance, objection, or making an opposition.
• "As soon as" (ευθέως/eutheos in Greek): Immediately.
• "Was sent for" (μεταπέμψασθαί/metapēmpsaı́ in Greek): Invited or summoned.
• "Intent" or "purpose" (τίς/ tis in Greek): This is a term that denotes a question about the 'cause,' 'reason,' or 'purpose' of something.

By studying these original Greek terms, we gain a deeper appreciation for Peter's responsive attitude to God's revelation and his inquiry into the nature of his summons.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader cultural and religious context of the time, Peter's actions can be compared to other ancient traditions where purity constraints and inter-ethnic engagements were also significant.

Similar religious taboos existed across a variety of cultures, including Greek, Roman, and various Eastern traditions.

The interaction between Peter, a Jew, and Cornelius, a Gentile, shows a breaking down of those barriers, which is a common theme in many religious narratives that emphasize universalism over traditional exclusivity.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings of human behavior and sociology may provide insights into the psychological and social dynamics at play in this passage.

The study of in-group vs. out-group behavior, common in-group identity model, and intergroup contact theory all are relevant in understanding the social significance of Peter's crossing cultural boundaries.

Acts 10:29 illustrates a successful intercultural engagement that reduces prejudice, which aligns with findings in contemporary social science that promotes intergroup contact to reduce discrimination.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on this passage:

• John Calvin emphasizes the obedience of Peter to God’s vision, indicating that when God called, Peter did not hesitate despite his prejudices.
• Matthew Henry points out that Peter was ready to preach the gospel to those who were ready to receive it, showing his commitment to the mission regardless of the audience.
• William Barclay highlights the revolutionary change in Peter's conception of God and God's message, which before was secluded to Jews but now opened to all.
• F.F.

Bruce notes the significant turning point for the early Christian movement as it transitions from a Jewish sect to a community open to all people, as demonstrated by Peter's words and actions.

These commentaries together bring out the importance of the passage in signaling a transformational moment in Christian history and in Peter's ministry.