Acts 11:18
French (La Bible expliquée)
Après avoir entendu ces mots, tous se calmèrent et louèrent Dieu en disant: « C'est donc vrai, Dieu a donné aussi à ceux qui ne sont pas juifs la possibilité de changer de comportement et de recevoir la vraie vie. » Que les non-Juifs reçoivent la parole de Dieu, tant mieux! Mais, selon l'Église de Judée, Pierre a fait un pas de trop dans la fréquentation des non-circoncis (v. 2). Accepter l'hospitalité d'un non-Juif n'était pas interdit, mais rendait rituellement impur. Le partage des repas entre Juifs et non-Juifs était un grave problème pour les premières communautés chrétiennes (Gal 2.11-12). Ce troisième récit de la vision accordée à Pierre insiste encore sur la souveraineté de Dieu, à qui il appartient seul de discerner entre le pur et l'impur, et d'accorder ses dons sans distinction entre les humains (v. 17). Tous sont appelés à changer de comportement et à recevoir la vie véritable offerte par le Seigneur (v. 18).
What Does This Mean?
This verse in the Bible tells us that after hearing about what God did for non-Jewish people, some Jewish believers were silent and praised God because they realized God had given these people a chance to turn their lives around and live forever with Him.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a special treat, and at first, you think only your family can have it. But then you learn that all of your friends can enjoy the treat too! You feel happy and say 'Wow, God is so kind to share this with everyone!'
Historical Background
The book of Acts was written by Luke, a doctor and close friend of Paul, around 60-70 AD. This passage describes the response of Jewish Christians in Jerusalem after learning that Gentiles (non-Jews) had received the Holy Spirit without first converting to Judaism.
Living It Out Today
Today, this verse reminds us not to limit God's grace only to certain groups but to share it widely with everyone we meet. For instance, if you know someone who hasn't considered their faith or has felt excluded from religious communities, remember that God’s invitation is open to all.
Topics
salvationrepentanceinclusivityfaithconversiongrace
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is speaking in this verse?
The speaker isn't explicitly named, but the context suggests it’s a group of Jewish Christians who have just heard about the Holy Spirit being given to Gentiles without them first becoming Jews.
What does 'repentance unto life' mean in this verse?
'Repentance unto life' means turning away from sin and towards God, which leads to eternal life. It’s like making a U-turn on the wrong path of life and heading towards a new direction full of God's love.
Why did they praise God?
They praised God because they recognized that His grace was not limited to Jewish people but extended to Gentiles, meaning salvation is open to all who believe in Him.
How does this verse relate to today's understanding of faith and community?
This verse encourages modern believers to see everyone as potential recipients of God’s grace. It challenges us to be inclusive and share our faith with people from different backgrounds, just as the early Christians did.