God's Worldview on Religion

S - Acts 10:27-28, 34-36, 42-48 (NRVS): "And as he talked with him, he went in and found that many had assembled; and he said to them, "You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean. … Then Peter began to speak to them: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. … He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name." While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, "Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days."


O - This exchange with Cornelius and his household begins with the unavoidable conclusion Peter was carried to by the vision he saw from heaven. It was certainly not the prevailing view among believing Jews and yet its truth was irrefutable. God insists that we (all believers):

1. Call no one (from any culture or background) profane or unclean.

2. Accept unconditionally all who fear God AND do what is right (both of these are essential). This does not eliminate the "need" for Jesus but lets us start with people at the same place God does.

3. Remember Jesus is Lord of all.

4. Engage our assignment, in light of these truths, to speak (his name and words) and give witness (the context of our daily lives) to his preeminent place for all people (ordained by God as the judge of the living and the dead - all men will be drawn to him).

5. Invite all to believe (personally respond to) Jesus who is the Gospel.

6. Interface with all people as sinner to sinner unto the forgiveness of our sins (Jesus spends no time trying to convince people that they are sinners. He announces that we are such and as such we are the very ones he is calling and seeking and speaking to).

A - The result of this "world view" is not only astonishing to other believers (who are strong in their own cultural/religious system), but one which the Holy Spirit will insert himself in a direct and identifiable way. Ultimately, theology without experience is impotent (even though it's true). We all need to experience our theology:). This awesome insight into the heart of God and the purposes of Jesus on this planet is both the affirmation of, and clear direction for, my little life and how I interface with all people. (The rungs of concentric circles from the inside out: Jesus; Scripture; believers (people); all Religion (Culture). Only Jesus is life giving, life saving; life transforming and life empowering.

P - Dear Lord of All and Lord of me,

Thank you for letting me do this … for letting me carry your name and your words and for calling me to unconditionally accept all who fear God and do what is right. Thank you, from my 17th year on, for allowing me to experience the theology your written voice presents. Thank you for your speaking voice which found Peter and has also found me. Please, shepherd me through these next days so I may shepherd others according to your will. Please change my life; put your Holy Spirit on me and cause him to flow out of me unto the revelation of your person and the receipt of forever life (vibrant, refreshing, irresistible). Help me be little today so I won't miss you and what you're doing. Make your desire and purpose for me clear so I may do your bidding. Let me bring you glory and make you glad.

Speak, Lord, your servant (little and weak) is listening.

Steve