v. 17-18: The focus stays on Peter. Given the story line of Acts so far, what does it look like is happening when the three men, Gentiles and a Roman soldier, show up at the place with Simon is, three men sent from a Roman centurion who has on good terms with the synagoge in Caesaria? Does Peter know what is going on, even in terms of the vision?

Vv. 19-20: Give this, what is the significance of the Spirit's communication with Peter? What does the Spirit demand of Peter?

V. 21: What would it take for Peter to identify himself to these three? Does Peter give them any indication that he knows anything about their presence? Does he know why they are there?

v. 22: How do the three reply? How do they identify Cornelius? Are these words necessarily any comfort to Peter? How do they view Peter in relationship to other Jews? Does anyone yet know what is going on?

v. 23: How does Peter respond to them? What would it take for him to welcome them into Simon the Tanner's (!) house for the evening? What would it require of Peter to do? What does it say that some from the church in Joppa when with them? Where they invited? Why would they go? What does that tell you about the congregation there? What virtues would Peter have to have to set out at this time with this group?

One sees here the tremendous uncertainty amidst what God is unfolding around Peter and Cornelius, the social dynamics, the dynamics of friendships within a local congregation, the simple, concrete materiality for requirements of the situation. How have you experienced such complicating uncertainty of life in setting out in obedience to God without knowing the full picture? What is it like to experience?

Have a wonderful evening. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone Sunday evening for the group meeting!