Only a Man

Acts 10:21-26 Peter went down and said to the men, “I’m the one you’re looking for. Why have you come?” 22 The men replied, “We have come from Cornelius, the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to have you come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say.” 23 Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests. The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa went along. 24 The following day he arrived in Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. 26 But Peter made him get up. “Stand up,” he said, “I am only a man myself.”
 
MEN are doing God’s business. A divine messenger had spoken to Cornelius. Cornelius obeyed the instructions and sent men to find Peter. The Holy Spirit had also spoken to Peter. Peter had a very personal relationship with the Son of God. He had witnessed Jesus’ miracles, expressed deep devotion to his rabbi, felt the sting of Jesus’ rebukes, experienced the great grief of his sin and rejoiced as Jesus restored him to ministry. Peter had celebrated the high emotions to speak the Spirit’s authority to transform people’s lives into Jesus’ salvation. Was he greater than Cornelius and his servants?
   Peter knew his place in God’s kingdom. Responding to Cornelius’ devotion to him, Peter replied, “Stand up! I am only a man myself!” With these words, the Holy Spirit helps us all understand the essential truth of our relationship with God and with one another. Who we are is from God. Paul said it this way: We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10)
   God uses many people to expand his kingdom. Sometimes those church leaders and specially gifted people become prideful. In some cultures, people who preach and teach the Bible are elevated to a special place of privilege. Is this appropriate?
   Yes, it is good to honor those God has anointed to the gift of preaching and teaching. But we must remember each person in the church is gifted to a particular work. We should honor one another as the Lord loves those called to use the different gifts, according to the grace given us. (Romans 12:8) As Jesus’ chosen body we must live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. (Romans 12:16)
   When the Spirit calls you to service, respond in the same way Jesus served his church. Be humble. Be aware. Jesus has called you. He’ll show you what to do. Your task is to faithfully and humbly respond.