Acts 11:3
Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
Original Language Analysis
λέγοντες
Saying
G3004
λέγοντες
Saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 10
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὅτι
G3754
πρὸς
to
G4314
πρὸς
to
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
3 of 10
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
ἀκροβυστίαν
uncircumcised
G203
ἀκροβυστίαν
uncircumcised
Strong's:
G203
Word #:
5 of 10
the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised (i.e., gentile, figuratively, unregenerate) state or person
ἔχοντας
G2192
ἔχοντας
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
6 of 10
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Acts 10:28And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.Galatians 2:12For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.Luke 15:2And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
Historical Context
Jewish law forbade entering Gentile homes and eating with them (Acts 10:28). Table fellowship signified intimate social equality and covenant relationship. Critics focused on Peter's actions (entering, eating) rather than theological justification. Around 40 CE, this represented Christian Judaism's identity crisis—could Christianity remain Jewish sect while including uncircumcised Gentiles? Peter's defense would establish theological framework resolving this tension.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does table fellowship carry such theological significance?
- How do practical actions often spark theological controversies?
- What role do purity concerns play in religious boundary-maintenance?
- In what ways does gospel inclusion challenge human social categories?
- How should leaders respond when criticized for controversial but Spirit-led actions?
Analysis & Commentary
Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. The specific accusation—entering Gentile homes and sharing meals—identifies the shocking boundary-crossing that violated Jewish purity laws.