After documenting the conversion of Saul, the book of Acts begins following Peter and his travels to Lydda, Joppa, and finally Caesarea. In Caesarea he meets Cornelius.
At Lydda and Joppa, note how the stories of Aeneas and Tabitha illustrate again the relationship between miracles and conversion (See especially Acts 9:35 and 42).
The story of the conversion of Cornelius is told in very careful detail. The details are related twice in fact, once in chapter 10 and then again in 11:1-17. Acts 11:4 says “Peter explained it to them in order from the beginning, saying….”. Why is such careful attention given to this account?
Highlight several phrases that point to the tension that surrounding the idea of the acceptance of the Gentiles. Where do you see that it was an issue that people did not yet understand how to deal with?
What was the meaning of the vision Peter received? What did Peter say God was showing him in the vision? (10:28).
What finally convinced Peter to baptize Cornelius?
How did the Jews in Jerusalem finally accept that the Gentiles were to be received?
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