Acts 10:28 – “He said to them: ‘You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile. But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean.'”

Extended Explanation

Peter spoke these words when he entered the house of Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Up until this point, Jewish laws and traditions had kept Jews separate from Gentiles. It was commonly understood that Jews were not supposed to enter a Gentile’s home or have close social contact with them, as this would make them ceremonially unclean.

However, Peter had just received a vision from God (Acts 10:9-16) that challenged this way of thinking. In the vision, God showed him a sheet filled with animals—both clean and unclean—coming down from heaven. God told Peter, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.” At first, Peter was confused, but when Cornelius’ messengers arrived, he realized that God wasn’t just talking about food—He was talking about people.

Now, standing in Cornelius’ house, Peter publicly acknowledged that God had changed his understanding. The gospel was not just for the Jewish people but for everyone. Peter was confessing that God had revealed a deeper truth: no person should be considered unworthy or excluded from the message of salvation.

Historical Context

In Jewish culture at that time, there was a strict separation between Jews and Gentiles. The Old Testament law included many purity laws that were meant to set Israel apart as God’s chosen people. Over time, however, these laws became the foundation for social and cultural divisions. Many Jews avoided Gentiles entirely, believing they were spiritually unclean.

This mindset was reinforced by centuries of history. The Jews had been conquered and oppressed by various Gentile nations, including the Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans. As a result, many Jews viewed Gentiles as outsiders, not part of God’s covenant family.

Cornelius, though a Gentile, was a “God-fearing” man (Acts 10:2). This meant he believed in and worshiped the God of Israel but had not fully converted to Judaism. Despite his devotion, Jewish law still considered him and his household unclean.

Peter’s statement in Acts 10:28 marks a major shift. God was revealing that the division between Jews and Gentiles was no longer necessary. Through Jesus Christ, salvation was now available to all people, regardless of their background.

Theological Implications

1. God’s salvation is for everyone. Peter learned that no one should be excluded from the gospel based on their ethnicity or background. This truth is reinforced throughout the New Testament (Romans 10:12, Galatians 3:28).
2. God’s revelation brings transformation. Peter had grown up with certain religious traditions, but God showed him a greater truth. When God speaks, He often challenges old ways of thinking and leads His people into deeper understanding.
3. Obedience to God sometimes means going against cultural norms. Peter risked criticism from other Jews by entering a Gentile’s home. Following God’s plan often requires courage and a willingness to break human traditions.

Literary Analysis

Peter’s words in Acts 10:28 are structured as both a confession and a declaration. He first acknowledges what was commonly understood—Jews were not supposed to associate with Gentiles. Then, he introduces the key message: “But God has shown me…” This phrase signals a revelation from God that overrides previous understanding.

This pattern—acknowledging past traditions and then revealing God’s truth—is a key theme in Acts. The early church was learning that God’s plan was bigger than they had imagined. Luke, the author of Acts, presents this moment as a turning point, not just for Peter but for the entire spread of Christianity.

Biblical Cross-References

• Genesis 12:3 – God’s promise to Abraham: “All peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” This verse shows that God’s plan always included the Gentiles.
• Isaiah 49:6 – “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.” This prophecy is fulfilled in Acts 10.
• Ephesians 2:14 – “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” This verse speaks directly to what Peter was experiencing—God breaking down the division between Jews and Gentiles.
• Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Paul later teaches the same truth that Peter learned in Acts 10.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse challenges Christians to examine their own biases. Are there people we view as “outsiders” to the faith? Do we hesitate to share the gospel with certain groups because of cultural, racial, or social differences?

Peter had to let go of his previous way of thinking in order to obey God. The same is true today. Following Jesus may require us to move beyond personal comfort zones, break down barriers, and reach people we may not have thought to reach.

Additionally, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s truth is greater than human traditions. While traditions can be valuable, they should never become barriers that prevent people from hearing the gospel.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is not limited by human boundaries. He does not show favoritism (Acts 10:34). He desires all people to come to Him, regardless of their background.

Peter’s experience also shows that God is patient and willing to teach His followers. Instead of rebuking Peter for his old way of thinking, God revealed the truth step by step. This demonstrates God’s kindness and His desire to guide His people into a deeper understanding of His love.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself demonstrated what Peter was learning in Acts 10. During His ministry, Jesus frequently broke social barriers:

• He spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:9-10).
• He healed the servant of a Roman centurion (Matthew 8:5-13).
• He praised the faith of a Canaanite woman (Matthew 15:21-28).

Jesus’ mission was never just for the Jewish people—it was for the whole world. In John 10:16, He said, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also.” Peter’s visit to Cornelius’ house is the beginning of this reality taking shape in the early church.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Are there any groups of people you find it difficult to reach out to with the gospel?
2. How do cultural or personal traditions sometimes get in the way of sharing God’s love with others?
3. What does Peter’s transformation in this passage teach us about how God changes hearts?
4. How does this passage challenge you to step outside of your comfort zone for the sake of the gospel?
5. How can you be more intentional about sharing God’s love with people who are different from you?

Acts 10:28 is a powerful reminder that God’s plan is for all people, and His love knows no boundaries. Just as Peter had to learn to see others the way God sees them, so must we. This passage challenges every believer to move beyond human divisions and embrace the full reach of the gospel.