Commentary on Acts 11:3

Verse: "Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them."

Introduction

The verse Acts 11:3 arises from a pivotal moment in the early Church, where Peter is confronted by fellow believers for his association with Gentiles. This reaction reveals the tension between tradition and the new covenant that Christ introduced. The following commentary synthesizes insights from notable public domain scholars to give a comprehensive understanding of the verse.

Contextual Background

Before delving into the verse itself, it is crucial to understand the context surrounding it:

• Apostolic Mission: The early apostles, including Peter, were initially focused on preaching the Gospel to the Jews, adhering to Jewish customs and laws.
• Vision of Peter: Earlier in Acts 10, Peter receives a vision from God that challenges Jewish dietary laws and calls him to engage with Gentiles.
• God's Preference for Gentiles: Peter's acceptance of Cornelius, a Gentile, signifies God’s plan to extend His grace beyond the Jewish nation.

Peter's Actions in Context

In Acts 11:3, the followers of Christ express their discontentment with Peter’s actions, which they perceive to violate Jewish laws:

• Eating with Gentiles: The act of eating with uncircumcised men was highly contentious, as it represented a departure from the Law of Moses.
• Condemnation and Concern: The response is one of astonishment and condemnation, emphasizing the cultural and religious boundaries created by the Law.

Theological Implications

This verse opens up significant theological considerations for understanding the shift in God’s redemptive plan:

• Grace over Law: The early Church begins grappling with the concept that salvation through Christ transcends traditional Jewish law.
• Inclusion of All Peoples: God's intention to reach every nation and tribe is highlighted, marking a significant paradigm shift in the Church's mission.
• Courage in Faith: Peter’s response to the criticism will reveal the need for courage to follow the calling of God despite societal pressures.

Insights from Commentators

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the seriousness of the complaint against Peter. He notes that this criticism demonstrates the resistance to change within the early Church, particularly concerning long-held traditions and practices.

Henry suggests that this moment serves as a reminder of how easily religious communities can become insular. He advocates for the necessity of divine guidance when faced with such challenges, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes provides a detailed exposition on the cultural implications of this verse. He illustrates how the Jews viewed the act of sharing a meal as a deep, significant bond, one that could imply acceptance and equality.

Barnes further elucidates that the Jewish Christians’ astonishment reflects the early Church's struggle with inclusive practices. He encourages readers to embrace the broader mission of the Gospel, which is to reach all humanity regardless of ethnicity or background.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke's commentary focuses on the implications of Peter's actions from a historical context. He argues that Peter’s actions were not just controversial; they were revolutionary, representing an important milestone in the Church's understanding of the Great Commission.

Clarke discusses the potential for divisiveness that arises when traditions are challenged and emphasizes the need for unity within the body of Christ. He urges a response rooted in love and understanding, rather than criticism.

Application for Today

Acts 11:3 challenges contemporary believers to reflect on the following:

• Embracing Diversity: Just as Peter's actions led to a reevaluation of the Church's stance on Gentiles, modern believers are called to embrace diversity within the faith community.
• Listening to God’s Guidance: Believers must remain sensitive to God's leading, even when it may go against the grain of tradition and expectations.
• Promoting Inclusivity: The Church today must continue to seek ways to include those who have been historically marginalized or excluded.
• Courage to Stand Firm: Just as Peter needed to defend his actions, believers today must stand firm in their convictions when confronted with challenges to their faith or practice.

Conclusion

Acts 11:3 serves as a reminder that the Gospel of Christ challenges societal norms and calls for radical inclusivity. The criticisms faced by Peter foreshadow the ongoing dialogue within the Church regarding the balance between tradition and divine revelation. As believers, engaging thoughtfully and lovingly in such discussions is central to the mission of the Church in today’s diverse world.