The Gentiles Saw God's Righteousness (Isaiah 62:1-2)
Introduction:
1. This morning we studied "a special privilege" provided to members of the Lord's church -- wearing the name "Christian." 2. God's people were called by that special name for the first time in Acts 11:26. 3. According to Isaiah 62:1-2, the Gentiles would see God's righteousness before He gave this name. 4. In our lesson we are studying the conversion of Cornelius in Acts 10 to show that "the Gentiles saw God's righteousness." 5. As we examine Cornelius' conversion, let us keep in mind that: a. Jesus had given "the keys of the kingdom" to Peter (Matthew 16:19) b. Peter was in Joppa where he brought Dorcas back to life (Acts 9:36-43). Discussion: I. (vs.1-8) CORNELIUS RECEIVED SOME INSTRUCTIONS
A. (vs.1-2) Cornelius is introduced as a Roman officer with authority and as a man of excellent character. B. (vs.3-6) An angel spoke to Cornelius in a vision. 1. He was told to send for Simon Peter who was in Joppa. 2. Peter would tell him what to do. C. (vs.7-8) Cornelius followed the angel's instructions. II. (vs.9-23) PETER RECEIVED SOME INSTRUCTIONS
A. (vs.9-16) Peter had a vision. B. (vs.17-20) The Spirit instructed Peter to go with the men sent by Cornelius. C. (vs.21-22) Peter talked with the men. D. (vs.23) Peter and some other Christians went with the men. III. (vs.24-33) PETER MET CORNELIUS IV. (vs.34-43) PETER SPOKE TO CORNELIUS, HIS RELATIVES, AND HIS FRIENDS
A. Peter finally learned "that God is no respecter of persons." B. Peter showed that Jesus had been crucified and resurrected. C. Peter also talked to them about the "remission of sins." V. (vs.44-46a) THE GENTILES WERE BAPTIZED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT
A. This was demonstrated by their speaking in tongues. B. The Jewish Christians who accompanied Peter "were astonished." VI. (vs.46b-48) THE GENTILES WERE BAPTIZED IN WATER IN THE LORD'S NAME VII. WHY WERE THESE GENTILES BAPTIZED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT?
A. It was not for the purpose of being saved. 1. It is mentioned several times that Peter would tell Cornelius what he needed to do (vs.6b, vs.22b, vs.32b, vs.33b). 2. Peter never said anything to them about being baptized in the Holy Spirit. 3. However, Peter did teach them the Gospel and command them to be baptized in water in the name of the Lord. 4. It was then that they were saved (Mark 16:15-16). B. Their baptism in the Holy Spirit proved to Jewish Christians that salvation was also for Gentiles (Acts 11:1-18; 15:5-11, 13-17). Conclusion:
1. We learn from Acts 10 that "the Gentiles saw God's righteousness." 2. Isaiah prophesied that this would occur before God gave the new name by which His people would be called. 3. When the time was right, God called His people by a new and very special name (Acts 11:26).
