Can We Change?

Can We Change? | Acts 10:34-48

Stewart Swain, Pastor of Discipleship

Key Takeaways

• The Gospel is a converting power that changes people that reorients our lives.

• God changes how people interact with others, breaking down cultural and social barriers.

• The gospel is for everyone, regardless of ethnicity or background.

• Jesus invites us not just into a relationship with him, but into his family of believers.

Study Questions

• Question 1

  Peter’s gospel proclamation to Cornelius and his friends and family was centered on the person and work of Jesus. How does understanding Jesus as a real, historical person impact your faith?

• Question 2

  When God poured out his Holy Spirit on the Gentiles in Cornelius’ home, Peter realized that the Gospel is for all people. How can we apply this principle of equality in our church and community today?

• Question 3

  The sermon touched on breaking down social barriers. What are some social or cultural barriers you see in our community that the gospel challenges us to overcome? How does the Gospel provide the resources we need to overcome these barriers?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : God Shows No Partiality

READING :

Acts 10:34-43

DEVOTIONAL :

Peter's revelation that "God shows no partiality" is a powerful reminder of God's inclusive love. Reflect on how this truth challenges our own biases and prejudices. How might God be calling you to expand your circle of love and acceptance? Consider ways you can actively demonstrate God's impartial love in your daily interactions, especially with those who are different from you.

APPLICATION :

Identify one social or cultural barrier in your life. Make a concrete plan to reach out to someone across that barrier.

Day 2 : The Transforming Power of Christ

READING :

2 Corinthians 5:17-21

DEVOTIONAL :

The sermon emphasized how God changes people and redirects their lives. This passage in Corinthians echoes that theme, declaring that in Christ God brings us into the "new creation." Meditate on how your own life has been transformed by Christ. What old patterns or beliefs have been replaced? How can you lean into this new creation reality today?

APPLICATION :

Ask God to continue his transforming work in your life, making you an ambassador of his reconciling love.

Day 3 : Unity in Christ's Body

READING :

Ephesians 2:11-22

DEVOTIONAL :

The story of Peter and Cornelius illustrates how the gospel breaks down barriers between people. Paul expands on this idea, showing how Christ's work creates one new humanity from formerly divided groups. Consider the "dividing walls of hostility" that exist in your community or world. How can you be an agent of unity and peace? Pray for the courage to build bridges where others see only walls.

APPLICATION :

Reflect on your identity as part of God's family. How can you practically demonstrate this in your relationships with other believers this week?

Day 4 : Childlike Faith

READING :

Matthew 18:1-5

DEVOTIONAL :

Stewart mentioned in his sermon the unbiased, wonder-filled perspective of children. Jesus elevates this childlike approach as essential for entering the kingdom of heaven. Reflect on areas of your life where you've lost your sense of wonder or become overly cynical.

APPLICATION :

How can you cultivate a more childlike faith? Ask God to renew your sense of awe and trust in him.

Day 5 : Living as God's Witnesses

READING :

Acts 1:6-8

DEVOTIONAL :

Peter and the early Christians were called to be witnesses to Christ's work. This mandate extends to all believers today. Reflect on what it means to be Christ's witness in your specific context. How can you share the story of God's work in your life? Pray for the Holy Spirit's power to embolden you in your witness, whether through words or actions, in your home, workplace, or community.

APPLICATION :

Consider areas in your life where you might be showing partiality. Pray for God's guidance in treating all people equally.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!

People: My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God.

Psalm 84:1-2

Confession of Faith

Heidelberg Catechism, Q & A #1

Q. What is your only comfort in life and death?

A. That I am not my own, but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from all the power of the devil. He also preserves me in such a way that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head; indeed, all things must work together for my salvation. Therefore, by his Holy Spirit he also assures me of eternal life and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for him.

Confession of Sin

Merciful Father, unlike you, we show favoritism - clinging to what is familiar and excluding those you have welcomed. Jesus, forgive our pride and prejudice. Spirit, humble our hearts and teach us to rejoice in your grace that crosses every barrier. Cleanse us of superiority, widen our embrace, and fill us with awe that you grant repentance and life to all who come to you in faith, even those we least expect. Amen.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.

Romans 3:23-24

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Acts 11:19-30