Pastor John Wright

The days have been very full. I feel bad for not getting to more commentaries on Benedict, and I have only a few minutes before going to a departmental meeting to outline tonight's Bible Study. Hopefully tonight I'll complete a draft of my paper for Saturday. I have deeply enjoyed it, but had to focus to get it done.

Today's passage is Peter's response to Cornelius. It is interesting how Cornelius' response shapes Peter's interpretation of his vision. In a real sense, the vision does not reach its fullness of meaning until Peter's declaration here.

Vv. 34-35: Who does God accept, according to Peter? Before answering, however, you might want to ask how vv. 34-35 relates to 36-41.

Vv. 36-41: Peter here repeats the story of Jesus. What does people highlight about Jesus? What is the significance of his being "Lord of all"? How does Jesus' message relate to Cornelius? Given Peter's story, what does Jesus' crucifixion tell Cornelius about Jesus? What does the God's resurrection tell Cornelius about Jesus? What is the significance that Peter tells this version of the story of Jesus in light of Cornelius' concerns?

vv. 42-43: What is the final role for Jesus? (Now you might be able to answer the first part in vv. 34-35!). Why would one receive remission of sins in his name for belief (ie., loyalty to his name)? What is it to fear God and work righteousness?

Why does Peter draw this connection to working righteousness and believing in Jesus? What significance does that have for us? What happens if one forgets Jesus and tries to work righteousness? What happens when one forgets to work righteousness and tried to believe in Jesus?

Enjoy the evening!