Sep 26, 2017
It was not long before the “apostles and brothers” in Jerusalem heard that Gentiles had received the “word of God.” Upon Peter’s return to Jerusalem the “circumcision party” criticizes him for fraternizing with Gentiles, thus provoking a defense and explanation from Peter. His focus is on the falling of the Holy Spirit upon the Gentiles at the home of Cornelius. Peter had heard Jesus say that the Holy Spirit would baptize, and obviously this very thing had happened for Gentiles. What then could Peter do but baptize them in water, which Jesus had also commanded. The Church in Jerusalem rejoices at this report.