Acts 10:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 10:15
15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
Chapter Context
Acts 10 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, redemption, hope. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 10:15
15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
Analysis
The divine response - 'What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common' - declared God's sovereign right to determine cleanness. The perfect tense 'hath cleansed' indicated completed action. God had already cleansed what Peter still called common.
Historical Context
This statement revolutionized ceremonial categories. What God declares clean is clean, regardless of previous classification. This principle would apply to Gentile believers.
Reflection
- How does God's cleansing authority challenge human categorizations?
- What does 'calling common what God has cleansed' look like in practice today?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Acts 10:28, 11:9, Romans 14:20
- Parallel theme: Acts 15:9, 15:20, Matthew 15:11, Mark 7:19, Romans 14:14, 1 Corinthians 10:25