What does Acts 11:6 mean?

Explanation

The verse [Acts 11:6], "Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air," is part of a narrative where Peter recounts a vision given to him by God.

The vision is often interpreted as a metaphor for a new understanding of purity and the inclusion of Gentiles into the early Christian community.

Literally, the vision describes various animals, traditionally considered unclean according to Jewish law, which are revealed to Peter in a symbolic manner.

The deeper meaning suggests the abolition of former distinctions between clean and unclean animals, pointing towards a more inclusive approach where the message of the Gospel is to be extended to all peoples, not just the Jewish nation.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the New Testament book of Acts, which chronicles the early church's experiences after the ascension of Jesus Christ.

Specific to Acts 11:6, Peter is explaining his experience to Jewish Christians in Jerusalem who were initially critical of his association with non-Jews.

The vision represents the transformative period of early Christianity, where the reach of the church is expanding beyond just Jewish believers to include Gentiles.

The Christian movement was grappling with its Jewish roots while also trying to define its universality in terms of salvation and the reception of new members from different cultural backgrounds.

Theological Insights

Different Christian denominations may interpret this verse in various ways:

• Catholic Understanding: The Catholic Church sees Peter's vision as central to the divine revelation that the message of Jesus Christ is universal.

This leads to the formulation of moral and dietary relaxations, emphasizing spiritual purity over ritual purity.

• Protestant Views: Many Protestant interpretations emphasize the breaking down of barriers between Jew and Gentile, with the vision symbolizing the inclusivity of the Gospel and the invalidation of Mosaic dietary laws for Christians.
• Eastern Orthodox Perspective: The Orthodox viewpoint also stresses the universal mission of the Church and might focus on the need for discernment in terms of what is declared clean or unclean, underlining the transformative power of grace.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be applied in the following ways:

• Breaking Down Barriers: By showing that what was once considered unclean is now clean, this verse encourages individuals to break down barriers of prejudice, inviting a spirit of inclusivity and acceptance.
• Challenging Traditional Boundaries: This vision invites believers to challenge traditional boundaries and consider how God may be leading them to embrace new understandings or changes within their faith journey.
• Reassessing Customs: It may prompt reassessment of customs and traditions in light of the broader message of the Gospel.

Cross-References

• Mark 7:18-19: Discusses Jesus declaring all foods clean, which corresponds with the message of Peter’s vision.
• Acts 10:11-15: The fuller story of Peter’s vision which includes the command to rise, kill, and eat, and the statement “What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.”
• Galatians 3:28: Points to the unity of all in Christ, echoing the inclusive message of Peter's vision.
• Leviticus 11: Lists the dietary laws that designate certain animals as unclean, providing the background to the distinctions being overturned in Acts 11:6.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words that stand out include:

• "τετράποδα" (tetrapoda): meaning "four-footed," usually referring to land animals.
• "θηρία" (theria): often translated as "wild beasts" or sometimes "animals," speaks to non-domesticated animals.
• "ἑρπετά" (herpeta): translates to "creeping things," indicating reptiles or small ground animals.
• "πετεινά" (peteina): meaning "birds" or "fowls of the air."

Analyzing these words in their original context helps us understand the wide range of animals presented in the vision, encompassing most of what was considered unclean.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient religions and myths, the concept of clean and unclean animals was not unique to Judaism.

Cultural taboos and religious laws concerning animals are found in various traditions.

For example, certain animals were considered sacred in ancient Egypt and were not to be consumed, similarly to Vedic traditions in India where cattle are venerated.

However, the Christian narrative takes a distinctive turn in its symbolic use of these categories to articulate a religious transformation in understanding the nature of community and divine law.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the dietary laws of ancient Judaism could be seen as having practical benefits, such as avoiding diseases associated with certain animals.

However, the vision in Acts 11:6 is not concerned with these practical aspects; it is a spiritual and theological declaration.

Modern science supports the idea that the distinction between clean and unclean animals is cultural rather than biological, as all animals can be carriers of disease if not properly prepared or cooked.

Commentaries

Commentaries provide various interpretations of this verse:

• **Biblical scholars like F.F.

Bruce**: Emphasize the transformative mission of the church and the overcoming of Jewish ritual purity laws to welcome Gentiles into the Christian faith.

• John Calvin and other Reformed theologians might highlight the sovereignty of God in declaring all things clean and the importance of obedient faith that transcends cultural practices.
• Matthew Henry: Offers a more contemplative analysis, delving into the symbolic nature of the vision and its implications for Peter's ministry and the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian community.
• **N.T.

Wright**: Underlines the social and cultural impact of this vision not only for early Christianity but also for subsequent church history in understanding God's inclusivity.