New Testament
Acts 10:15
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The voice spoke to him a second time: "What God has made clean, do not call common."
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And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
What Acts 10:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Peter hears a voice from heaven telling him not to label what God has made clean as unclean. This message is significant because it challenges Peter's understanding of purity and acceptance. God is revealing that His grace extends beyond traditional boundaries. The voice speaks twice, emphasizing the importance of this lesson. It’s a call to open-mindedness and to embrace those who may have been previously excluded. This moment marks a turning point in Peter's life and the early church, as it prepares them to welcome all people, regardless of their background. It’s a reminder that God’s love and acceptance are for everyone, breaking down barriers that divide us. This teaching encourages us to reconsider our own judgments about others and to see them through the lens of God’s love and acceptance. We are invited to reflect on how we view others and to align our hearts with God’s inclusive message of grace and redemption. This is a powerful lesson about transformation and the expansive nature of God’s kingdom.
How to apply Acts 10:15 to your life
Consider how you view others in your life. Are there people you might be excluding based on past judgments? Challenge yourself to embrace everyone with love and acceptance, just as God does. This can lead to deeper connections and a more inclusive community. Remember, God’s grace is for all of us, regardless of our differences. It’s time to reflect on our attitudes and actions towards others, ensuring they align with God’s message.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: The Vision on the Roof (Acts 10:9–16)
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Peter
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Acts 10:15
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 10:15 teach about acceptance?
Acts 10:15 emphasizes that God’s acceptance extends beyond traditional boundaries. The voice instructs Peter not to label what God has made clean as unclean, highlighting the importance of embracing all people, regardless of their backgrounds. This verse challenges us to reconsider our judgments and to practice inclusivity in our communities.
How does Acts 10:15 relate to purity and cleanliness?
In Acts 10:15, the voice from heaven tells Peter that what God has made clean should not be called common. This signifies a shift in understanding purity, suggesting that God's grace redefines what is considered clean or acceptable. It encourages believers to move beyond old laws and customs, embracing a broader view of purity that includes all people.
What is the significance of the voice speaking twice in Acts 10:15?
The repetition of the voice speaking twice in Acts 10:15 underscores the importance of the message being conveyed to Peter. It serves as a strong reminder that this lesson about acceptance and inclusivity is crucial for the early church. The emphasis on the message being repeated highlights the urgency for believers to embrace God's transformative grace.
How can we apply the message of Acts 10:15 in our lives today?
To apply the message of Acts 10:15, reflect on your own attitudes towards others. Identify any biases or judgments you may hold and challenge yourself to embrace everyone with love and acceptance. This can foster deeper relationships and create a more inclusive environment, aligning your actions with God’s message of grace and acceptance for all.
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