Acts 15:14

Simon has told us how God first visited the Gentiles to take from them a people to be His own.

Study Bible

Simon
The name "Simon" refers to Simon Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples and a prominent leader in the early church. The Greek name "Σίμων" (Simon) is derived from the Hebrew "שִׁמְעוֹן" (Shimon), meaning "he has heard." This is significant as Peter was a key figure in hearing and understanding God's revelation to include the Gentiles in His plan of salvation. Peter's role in the early church was pivotal, as he was the first to preach to the Gentiles, as recorded in Acts 10 with Cornelius, a Roman centurion.

has told us
This phrase indicates that Peter had previously shared this revelation with the church. The Greek word "ἐξηγήσατο" (exēgēsato) means "to explain" or "to declare." It underscores the importance of testimony and proclamation in the early church. Peter's explanation was not just a personal opinion but a divinely inspired message that needed to be communicated to the broader church community.

how God first visited
The phrase "how God first visited" highlights the divine initiative in the mission to the Gentiles. The Greek word "ἐπεσκέψατο" (epeskepsato) means "to visit" or "to look upon." This visitation is reminiscent of God's interventions throughout biblical history, where He steps into human affairs to bring about His purposes. It emphasizes that the inclusion of the Gentiles was not a human idea but a divine action, orchestrated by God Himself.

the Gentiles
The term "Gentiles" refers to all non-Jewish people. In Greek, "τὰ ἔθνη" (ta ethnē) is used, which can also be translated as "nations." This is significant because it marks a major shift in the early church's understanding of God's plan. Historically, the Jews were seen as God's chosen people, but this revelation shows that God's love and salvation extend to all nations, fulfilling the promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his seed (Genesis 12:3).

to take from them a people
The phrase "to take from them a people" indicates God's sovereign choice in selecting individuals from among the Gentiles to be part of His covenant community. The Greek word "λαβεῖν" (labein) means "to take" or "to receive," suggesting an intentional and purposeful action by God. This echoes the Old Testament concept of God choosing Israel as His people, now expanded to include Gentiles, showing the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

to be His own
This phrase signifies belonging and identity. The Greek "τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ" (tō onomati autou) can be translated as "for His name." It implies that the Gentiles who come to faith are not just added to the church but are called to bear God's name, reflecting His character and purposes. This is a profound statement of inclusion and identity, as it affirms that all believers, regardless of ethnic background, are part of God's family and share in the mission to glorify His name.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Simon (Peter)
One of Jesus' apostles, who played a crucial role in the early church. He shared the vision of God's plan for the Gentiles, emphasizing that salvation through Jesus Christ was available to all, not just the Jews.

2. God's Visitation
Refers to God's initiative in reaching out to the Gentiles, demonstrating His desire to include them in His redemptive plan. This visitation is a pivotal moment in the history of the early church, marking the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jewish boundaries.

3. Gentiles
Non-Jewish people who were traditionally seen as outside the covenant community of Israel. The inclusion of the Gentiles signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to bless all nations through Abraham.

4. Jerusalem Council
The meeting of early church leaders in Jerusalem to discuss and resolve the issue of whether Gentile converts needed to follow Jewish law. Acts 15:14 is part of the discussion led by James, affirming Peter's testimony.

5. James
The leader of the Jerusalem church, who supports Peter's account by referencing the prophets, showing that the inclusion of the Gentiles was in line with God's plan as revealed in Scripture.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Plan
God's plan for salvation is inclusive and sovereign, extending beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries. Believers are called to embrace and participate in this divine mission.

Unity in Diversity
The early church's acceptance of Gentiles highlights the importance of unity amidst diversity. Christians today should strive for unity in the body of Christ, celebrating diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Obedience to God's Leading
Peter's willingness to follow God's leading, even when it challenged traditional norms, serves as a model for believers to be open to God's direction, even when it requires stepping out of comfort zones.

Scriptural Confirmation
James' use of Scripture to confirm God's work among the Gentiles underscores the importance of grounding our understanding and actions in the Word of God.

Mission to All Nations
The inclusion of the Gentiles reminds believers of the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations, encouraging active participation in global evangelism.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Peter's testimony about the Gentiles challenge traditional views within the early church, and what can we learn from this about addressing cultural or doctrinal differences today?

2. In what ways does the inclusion of the Gentiles fulfill God's promise to Abraham, and how does this shape our understanding of God's faithfulness?

3. How can we apply the principle of unity in diversity within our own church communities, and what practical steps can we take to foster this unity?

4. What role does Scripture play in confirming God's work in our lives, and how can we ensure that our actions align with biblical teachings?

5. How can we actively participate in God's mission to reach all nations, and what specific actions can we take to support global evangelism efforts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 10
Peter's vision and encounter with Cornelius, a Gentile, where God shows Peter that He does not show favoritism and that the Gospel is for all people.

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him, foreshadowing the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.

Isaiah 49:6
A prophecy about the Servant of the Lord being a light to the Gentiles, indicating God's intention to extend salvation beyond Israel.

Romans 9:25-26
Paul references Hosea to illustrate God's calling of the Gentiles as His people, reinforcing the theme of God's inclusive plan.