Obedience and Evangelism in Acts

Questions and Answers

Who was required to heed the direction given to him by the angelic visitor in his vision?

Cornelius (correct)

John

Peter

Matthew

What significant action did Peter take that broke long-held Jewish restrictions?

Visited a Jewish temple

Traveled with three strangers to a gentile's home (correct)

Refused to speak to gentiles

Condemned the Roman centurion

What does Cornelius's conversion symbolize in the context of the early church?

The confusion among Jewish leaders

The rejection of the gospel by gentiles

The closing of the Jewish mission

The opening of the church to non-Jews (correct)

What is a key lesson about obeying God's commands as mentioned in the content?

It may involve breaking personal assumptions Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'venturing into uncharted territory' imply about obedience?

It may require taking risks Signup and view all the answers

Why is Cornelius often considered a significant figure in early Christianity?

He marked a crossing of the Jew-gentile border Signup and view all the answers

What was Peter’s predicament when he agreed to travel to Cornelius's home?

He would face disapproval from fellow Jews Signup and view all the answers

What can be expected when engaging with God in his mission?

Strange commands that challenge beliefs Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant outcome of the conversion of a leader like Cornelius?

It often leads to the conversion of their household and friends. Signup and view all the answers

What role does baptism play in a new convert's life?

It can provide an important witness to others. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for churches to consider visitors during baptismal services?

It creates opportunities for evangelism. Signup and view all the answers

How does a new convert's commitment impact others?

It can inspire curiosity and exploration of faith. Signup and view all the answers

What must churches do to reach new people within the pluralistic society?

Acknowledge and welcome non-Christians during services. Signup and view all the answers

What is emphasized about God in the context of conversion?

God is seen as the primary Evangelist. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key lessons drawn from Cornelius's conversion story?

Sharing the gospel leads to personal growth. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'prevenient grace' refer to in the context of conversion?

The initial grace that prepares individuals for faith. Signup and view all the answers

How did Peter's encounter with Cornelius influence his understanding of God?

He realized that God extends His calling to new peoples. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the controversies faced by the early church regarding evangelism?

Whether to translate the Scriptures for everyday people. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'insider movements' refer to?

Believers who adopt local customs while following Christ. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant change in baptism highlighted in the narrative?

Baptism began to be performed in the name of Jesus Christ. Signup and view all the answers

What assumption did the early church grapple with concerning cultural identity?

People can identify with multiple belief systems simultaneously. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does conversion serve a missional purpose?

It involves engaging others in the community. Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial reaction of the other Christian leaders in Jerusalem to Peter's actions?

They expressed skepticism and anger. Signup and view all the answers

How did Peter and the Christians grow spiritually through Cornelius’s conversion?

They experienced encouragement and joy as part of God's work. Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrative suggest about the relationship between cultural enculturation and the gospel?

The gospel can be misinterpreted through cultural lenses. Signup and view all the answers

What key belief did the first followers of Christ initially retain?

They continued to see themselves as faithful Jews. Signup and view all the answers

How does the narrative view the concept of syncretism?

It raises significant worries within the church. Signup and view all the answers

How did God's actions towards Cornelius surprise the early church?

God drew gentiles into the church without the need for circumcision. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential future consideration regarding insider movements?

Their developments may only be recognized over time. Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial expectation of the early church about followers of Christ?

They expected all followers to identify explicitly as Christians. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Attentive Obedience and Evangelism

Submission and obedience are essential for both the evangelist and the seeker in fulfilling God's mission.
Cornelius followed an angelic vision, while Peter obeyed a divine vision, leading them into unfamiliar areas that challenged their cultural norms.
Cornelius is regarded as a pivotal Gentile convert, signifying the early church's outreach to non-Jews, which transformed the church’s understanding and inclusion of diverse peoples.
This conversion event reflects a crucial moment in church history, illustrating God's intention to reconcile humanity, transcending ethnic divisions.
Obedience to God's commands may require relinquishing personal assumptions about His work and who might be receptive to the Gospel.

Spiritual Growth Through Evangelism

Evangelism fosters spiritual growth not only for converts but also for those sharing the Gospel.
Peter’s experience with Cornelius challenged his preconceptions about God’s mission and inclusivity, prompting growth and learning through new relationships.
Historical debates within the church have revolved around inclusion practices, such as translating scripture and adopting local customs, addressing concerns of cultural syncretism.
Contemporary issues include the emergence of "insider movements," where individuals maintain their cultural identities while embracing faith in Christ, complicating traditional understandings of conversion.

Conversion and Missional Nature

Conversion is inherently communal and missional; the conversion of individuals, like Cornelius, often influences their families and communities.
The transformative witness of converts can have a significant impact on non-Christians within their social circles.
Baptism serves as a public declaration of faith that invites exploration of Christianity by non-believers.
Churches are encouraged to design baptismal services with outreach in mind, promoting an environment for questions and interest from visitors.

Broader Implications

Cornelius's story emphasizes God's original grace in preparing hearts for faith even before formal conversion.
The event highlights God’s role as the primary Evangelist, utilizing extraordinary experiences to draw individuals to Himself.
The joy and growth experienced by early followers in witnessing Cornelius's conversion reflect the expansive nature of God's love and grace.
The conversion narrative serves as an enduring lesson for addressing contemporary pluralism within the church, showcasing God's continuous stretching of understanding regarding faith and inclusivity.

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Description

Explore the important themes of obedience and evangelism in the biblical context of Cornelius and Peter's visions. This quiz examines how both characters responded to divine instructions and the implications of their actions in spreading the Gospel. Test your understanding of these pivotal moments in the Book of Acts.