While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.
Then Peter said, “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days. - Acts 10:44-49
Peter preached an evangelistic sermon to a group of unbelievers and they repented and believed. But the people travelling with Peter couldn't believe that his evangelistic sermon actually worked. They were the ones who were surprised wen God actually confirmed their faith by sending the Spirit of God. As if they didn't really expect God to work or Peter's sermon to be effective. They were surprised that the Gentiles were getting the blessing.
Peter did not leave it at that. He said they should be baptized. By doing so, he made it clear that they had the same status as him and all of the circumcised believers who were with them. Holy Spirit? Check. Baptized in the name of Jesus? Check.
We believe we know the steps, but it is God who decides and it is God who knows people's heart. I hope that I will know how to encourage people who are coming closer to God and not keep them far away. I hope that I am not the one who doesn't believe.
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