Acts 10:20
Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.
Original Language Analysis
ἀλλὰ
therefore
G235
ἀλλὰ
therefore
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
1 of 13
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ἀναστὰς
Arise
G450
ἀναστὰς
Arise
Strong's:
G450
Word #:
2 of 13
to stand up (literal or figurative, transitive or intransitive)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
πορεύου
go
G4198
πορεύου
go
Strong's:
G4198
Word #:
5 of 13
to traverse, i.e., travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.)
σὺν
with
G4862
σὺν
with
Strong's:
G4862
Word #:
6 of 13
with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi
αὐτούς
them
G846
αὐτούς
them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
7 of 13
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
διακρινόμενος
doubting
G1252
διακρινόμενος
doubting
Strong's:
G1252
Word #:
9 of 13
to separate thoroughly, i.e., (literally and reflexively) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figuratively, to discriminate (by implication,
Historical Context
Jewish-Gentile separation was deeply ingrained through centuries of law observance. For Peter to enter a Gentile home violated traditional understanding of ceremonial purity (John 18:28). The Spirit's direct command was necessary to overcome this barrier.
Questions for Reflection
- What doubts does the Spirit sometimes need to address for us to obey His leading?
- How does the Spirit's 'sending' of the Gentile messengers demonstrate God's sovereignty in salvation?
- What cultural or traditional barriers might God call us to cross for the gospel's sake?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The Spirit commanded Peter: 'Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.' The command to go 'doubting nothing' addressed Peter's hesitation about associating with Gentiles. The phrase 'I have sent them' reveals the Spirit's sovereign orchestration - the Gentile messengers came at the Spirit's sending, not mere human initiative. Reformed theology emphasizes the Spirit's active role in bringing elect sinners to gospel messengers. Peter's obedience despite cultural and religious barriers would open salvation's door to the Gentile world.