March 26, 2023
Background: The author Luke wrote both the book of Luke and the book of Acts. Luke was a physician and companion of the Apostle Paul. He is most likely a Gentile. A Gentile was anyone who wasn’t an Israelite (Jewish).
Jews who practiced Judaism felt Moral and Spiritual Superiority to Gentiles because many Gentiles:
- Worshiping multiple gods
- Consuming non-kosher food
- Engaging in sexual practices deemed immoral
In the Gospel of Luke Jesus has a favorable look upon Gentiles.
Acts chapter 10 narrates a story where God sends Peter to teach Gentiles.
IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT YOU
Acts 10:44-46 (NIV)
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.
These are the ways Gentiles were discriminated against by pious Jews.
- Social Segregation
- Religious Exclusion
- Limited Business/Trades
YOU CAN’T ARGUE WITH EXPERIENCE
Acts 10:47-48 (NIV)
Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.
What Gentiles had to do to convert to Judaism:
- Accept the beliefs of Judaism including Monotheism
- Obey laws and customs of Judaism
- Circumcision (for male converts)
- Ritual Immersion: Both male and female purification
- Present Offerings at the Temple