Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth, I perceive that God shows no partiality.” Acts 10:34
Partiality or preferences are shown everywhere. People tend to only get together with other people who act, talk and look like they do. It is also seen in the workplace where a certain person gets preferential treatment over others regardless of how poorly the work is being done. Mistakes are overlooked on the one preferred and the book thrown at all others for the same mistakes. Actions like these often flow through every area of people’s lives.
Luke records in Act that Peter had to share the gospel message with an Italian centurion, Cornelius. As he does, Peter says he now realizes that God does not show any partiality.
The world loves to show partiality. They will roll out the red carpet for the wealthy, the famous, the influential and those that look just the ‘right’ way. Anyone who does not fit in the picture correctly is shunned and pushed to the side and ignored.
Actions like these are often seen inside the church. Those who give the most money or do the most work in the church are given the greatest titles, positions and recognition.
It is also seen when people are in their day-to-day lives. They are unwilling to witness to certain people because they don’t believe that they can be saved. Witnessing only occurs with people who look a certain way, and in the mind of the believer have a chance to be saved. Others are not given the opportunity.
God reaches out to all people. No one, no matter how good they are, how bad they are, what nation they are from or anything else stops God from reaching out to them.
In the same way, believers are to reach out to share the gospel message with every person possible. Give them a chance and show no partiality.
All around you are people who need to hear about Jesus, people that God is desiring to save. You have the opportunity to tell them about the plan God has to take away their sins, change their lives and give them a new hope and life. Do not reject them because they do not fit some certain format. God had reached out to you at some point and gave you a chance to follow Him, do the same for others.
Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that you will share the gospel message of Jesus with everyone you meet; that God will reveal ways in which you may show partiality and help you break that pattern; and that God will save many lives through your sharing His message with them.
Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash
Leave a Reply