Scripture: Acts 10:34–43
Ice Breaker:
Have you ever caught yourself quietly deciding who deserves God’s grace and who does not? Perhaps we say, “That person is too sinful,” or “They are not part of our group.”
Rhetorical Question:
Is salvation truly for everyone, or only for people who look, think, and live like us?
Acts 10 records one of the most revolutionary moments in the history of the church. In the house of Cornelius—a Roman centurion and a Gentile—Peter stands and speaks words that dismantle centuries of religious exclusivism:
“I now truly understand that God shows no partiality.”
This sermon is not merely a personal testimony; it is a theological declaration. It announces that God reveals salvation openly, universally, and decisively through Jesus Christ.
The early church was born Jewish in culture, theology, and practice. Although Jesus commanded His disciples to be witnesses “to the ends of the earth,” many believers still assumed salvation was primarily for Israel.
Cornelius was a Gentile officer in the Roman army—respected, devout, generous, yet still considered ceremonially unclean. Through divine visions given to both Cornelius and Peter, God orchestrated a historic encounter.
Acts 10:34–43 records Peter’s sermon—a Spirit-inspired proclamation that confirms salvation is God’s gift for all nations.
Transition:
Salvation begins when God corrects human perspectives and dismantles spiritual prejudice.
Peter declares, “God is not one who shows partiality.” The Greek word prosōpolēmptēs literally means “one who receives faces”—a judge who bases decisions on appearance, status, or ethnicity.
Peter confesses that he has come to a new understanding (ep’ alētheias katalambanomai)—a deep, experiential realization. God does not favor people based on race, culture, education, or religious background.
Parallel Scripture:
Romans 2:11 — “For God shows no partiality.”
This verse does not teach salvation by works. Rather, it emphasizes that faith produces reverence for God and righteous living. True faith is never merely intellectual—it transforms the heart.
Illustration:
A hospital does not ask about nationality before treating a patient. Illness qualifies someone for care. In the same way, sin qualifies humanity for salvation.
Application:
For employees and professionals: refuse workplace discrimination.
For the church: the Gospel must never be limited by culture or tradition.
Transition:
Salvation is not a philosophy—it is rooted in history and centered on a person.
Peter proclaims Jesus as Kyrios pantōn—“Lord of all.” This title directly confronts Roman ideology, where Caesar was called “lord.”
Salvation is universal because Christ’s lordship is universal.
Parallel Scripture:
Philippians 2:11 — “Every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.”
Peter summarizes Jesus’ earthly ministry: anointed by the Holy Spirit, empowered by God, doing good, and freeing those oppressed by the devil.
Salvation includes restoration—spiritual, emotional, and social.
Illustration:
Like sunlight breaking through heavy clouds, Christ’s presence brings freedom wherever darkness ruled.
Peter boldly declares the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. Salvation rests not on moral improvement, but on Christ’s redemptive work.
The resurrection is validated by eyewitnesses—chosen by God.
Parallel Scripture:
1 Corinthians 15:3–4 — Christ died for our sins and was raised on the third day.
Application:
For young people: Christianity is grounded in historical truth.
For parents: pass on a Gospel centered on Christ, not tradition alone.
Transition:
Revealed salvation always demands a personal response.
Christ is not only Savior, but also Judge of the living and the dead. Salvation carries eternal significance.
The Greek word aphesis means complete release or cancellation of debt. Through faith in Jesus, sin is not merely covered—it is removed.
Parallel Scripture:
Ephesians 1:7 — “In Him we have redemption through His blood.”
Application:
For business owners: let forgiven hearts shape ethical decisions.
For all believers: receive salvation by faith, not self-effort.
Call to Response:
God has revealed salvation clearly, powerfully, and freely. Will you receive it?
Poetic Closing:
The cross stands open.
The tomb stands empty.
Grace now flows to all who believe.
Closing Pantun (Contextualized):
Grace has come, the door stands wide,
No wall remains where sin once lied;
In Christ alone salvation stands,
God revealed His saving hands.