First Lesson: Acts 10:44-48

Theme: The impartial (and impatient) Spirit

Exegetical note
Chapter 10, which begins with the conversion to Christianity of the first Gentile, Cornelius, recounts the story of Peter’s gradual realization of the universality of the Christian mission. While Peter is relating this insight in a sermon, the Spirit does not even wait for him to finish or for the moment of baptism, when an outpouring would have normally been expected; rather it simply "falls" on all present, even the uncircumcised Gentiles.

Call to Worship
Leader: Sisters and brothers, ours is an impartial God.
People: GOD LOVES US ALL, IRRESPECTIVE OF RACE, OR NATIONALITY, OR CREED.
Leader: But our God is sometimes an impatient God as well, and often pours out the Holy Spirit before our calendars a…