Scripture: Acts 11::2-3"So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him and said, "You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them."
Observation:
Peter, led by the Holy Spirit, reached out to those not previously welcomed by the early church. They were Gentiles - outsiders who longed to know the grace of God. But those inside the church criticized Peter for his actions. Thankfully, after Peter explained the work of the Holy Spirit, the insiders had the spiritual maturity to change their opinions and this seemingly obscure decision is what truly made Christianity become an international spiritual movement.
Application:
Unfortunately, the church still has its share of critics. A retired Pastor in my congregation told me once that every church is like a washing machine - they have at least one agitator. People that criticize leadership, much like we saw in Acts 11, have the potential to destroy the work of God in the church.
Instead, seek to understand and the put the needs of others first. Peter understood through the Holy Spirit's leading that the church was not about who was on the inside (initially, the Jews). Instead, God was raising the church up to be inclusive - even of the Gentile outsiders. Here's the point: we have to put aside our traditions and our preferences and welcome the outsider. We need to appreciate and celebrate their differences in culture and tastes. The church is much richer when there is a diversity of people, preferences and personalities.
Prayer:
Father, I thank you for the unity and diversity we have at PCC. What a great big family full of different people from all walks of life. God, help me overcome the naysayers and critics. Don't let such a small number of people who are negative pull me down. I know our church isn't perfect. But we are doing all we can to build a balanced and healthy family for You. Help me continue to lead our church to maintain an outward focus. Remind me and our family that its not about us. It's about those who are yet to be part of your family. Amen.
