For a full description of the (Y3) reading plan, see the “About” page.
- What attributes of God’s character does this passage reveal?
- How does the passage point to Jesus?
- How should the truth of this passage change me?
- How do the events of today’s reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?
Acts 10
“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came down on all those who heard the message.” (Acts 10:44). This is evidence that the only thing required to receive God’s salvation is to accept His truth. The people in the room already believed in and served God. Because they truly believed in God, they believed in Jesus according to Peter’s testimony. There was no special prayer, no baptism, no circumcision. Nothing else happened except that they heard and accepted God’s truth.
Acts 11
The people of the circumcision party were no different than the Pharisees and other religious leaders. They failed to understand the true meaning of God’s law. Thus, they let the physical aspects of the law become an obstacle blocking people’s path to God. Not good! Jesus did not say, “Circumcision is the way”. Rather, He said, “I am the way” (see Jn. 14:6). Circumcision was merely a physical sign and seal of a physical covenant – a covenant that held no power to save. Do we need to be circumcised to be saved? Absolutely! But only in our hearts – which is accomplished by the Holy Spirit. We need to be very careful not to lay human demands on God’s work.
Acts 12
The angel of the Lord struck Herod dead, “But the word of God spread and multiplied.” (Acts 12:24). It doesn’t matter what evil does to elevate itself or to attempt to destroy God’s truth, it will never prevail. While it often seems like evil is winning, we can know that every kingdom built on the lie will fall. At the same time, every effort to destroy God’s truth will only serve to multiply God’s kingdom.