The Acts of The Apostles Testify Of The Need For Continuing Revelation

TheDiscipleMd

There are many lessons taught by the story of Cornelius found in the book of Acts. One is of the need for continuing revelation. If you remember the story, Cornelius was a righteous Gentile man who was humble and sought the will of God. In answer to his prayers he was given a vision in which an angel directed him to call on a man named Peter, the apostle, who was residing in the city of Joppa. He immediately sent men to find Peter, not knowing why. In the meantime Peter received this vision recorded in Acts:

“And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.  And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.
And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.”

Peter soon learned that the meaning of the vision was that the Gentiles, who were considered by the Jews to be unclean, should be taught the gospel. We further read in Acts:

“While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word…on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.  For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord…”

Anyone who reads this account should understand that continuing revelation is not only needed,  but is clearly endorsed by the Lord.  The New Testament is full of examples testifying of the need of continuing revelation. In order to bring about the works of God in our generation we too need his guidance.  May we have the faith to not only accept such a doctrine, but have the courage to follow the counsel given through those called to lead us.

 

 

 




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