When you hear the word ‘universal’, what comes to mind? Involve everyone. This word should not only thrive in the Christian church but also defines what God intended His church to be. Every race, nation, and orientation is included in the Good News that God shows no partiality in welcoming all people into His everlasting arms. The call to be universal embodies our mission to proclaim this Good News to everyone; this is where the Great Commission finds its true meaning. Jesus Himself said: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
To grasp this concept better, let’s consider the larger narrative of Peter and Cornelius in Acts chapter 10. This transformative story unfolds in Caesarea, a major Roman seaport that came under Roman control in 6 CE. Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian Cohort known for his devoutness, almsgiving, and constant prayer, represents a Gentile who experienced barriers to acceptance due to Jewish dietary laws (Acts 10:1-2).
The significance of Cornelius's story is profound. Both he and Peter receive divine visions: Cornelius is told by an angel to summon Peter, while Peter sees a vision challenging his understanding of clean and unclean. This culminates in Peter’s revelation that God shows no favoritism but welcomes all who seek Him (Acts 10:34-35).
As Peter preaches at Cornelius's house, he emphasizes that Jesus Christ is Lord of all, showing that Gentiles can receive God’s grace without first conforming to Jewish customs. The descent of the Holy Spirit on Cornelius and his household marks a transformative moment for the early church, confirming a comprehensive welcome into God’s family, including children.
Today’s message is about breaking barriers and embracing inclusivity in God’s Kingdom—everyone is invited to the table of grace. As Scripture reminds us, there is neither Greek nor Jew. Romans 3:29-30 asks, "Is God the God of Jews only? Is He not the God of Gentiles too?" Yes, there is one God who justifies both the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through that same faith. Similarly, Galatians states, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This illustrates the equality of all believers in Christ, transcending cultural and social barriers. Revelation 7:9 paints a crowded scene: "After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language."
Often, we forget just how BIG God is! Today’s passage from the Gospel of Matthew highlights this. Approximately 30 years after the world witnessed the coming of the Messiah, Jesus, beginning with His baptism, steps forward to fulfill the prophecy that He is indeed Lord of all.
Being a follower of Jesus is challenging. Consider the social worker addressing life’s complexities or the missionary serving in harsh conditions. Think also of healthcare professionals, teachers, non-profit workers, and first responders—all are called to serve and sacrifice. Following Christ requires deep commitment, but it grants us access to all that God has promised. There is nothing like that moment when we first chose to follow Christ with childlike faith.
Matthew shares in chapter 3 that “Jesus arrived from Galilee at the Jordan to be baptized by John. However, John tried to prevent Him, saying, ‘I have need to be baptized by You, and yet You are coming to me?’ Jesus answered, ‘Allow it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’” After His baptism, Jesus emerges from the water; the heavens open, the Spirit of God descends like a dove, and a voice declares, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
Every baptism reenacts the essential truth that the salvation Jesus brings is for everyone! Cornelius, a centurion from a pagan nation, passionately sought God. Described as devout, generous, and prayerful, he became a child of God along with his entire household. So, I ask you this morning, what excuses do we have not to follow Christ? Peter, Paul, and the others needed to witness God's work in action to understand Him better. Peter ultimately realized that God is impartial, transcending earthly categories—God in Christ Jesus is Lord of all people.
Our mission now is to get beyond these walls and into the world, demonstrating God’s truth. Remember, Jesus did not die solely for those gathered in the church. John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” Everyone—this is the message we must share!
Imagine a village with a unique tree at its center, its roots intertwined with villagers' homes and its branches offering shade for community gatherings. One storm uprooted many trees, yet the central tree stood firm. The villagers realized its health was linked to their livelihoods—so they nurtured it more diligently. As they cared for the tree, their lives flourished together under its branches, sharing food and stories.
This tree symbolizes the church—rooted in Christ and intertwined with its members' lives. Just as villagers learned that caring for this tree meant caring for themselves, we must nurture our church community, for our spiritual health depends on it.
In closing, Jesus seldom said, “I want you to think about me.” Instead, He said, “Follow Me!” Following Him means doing so as a collective body—this is church! Imagine Jesus telling Simon, “I’m assembling a team at God’s Kingdom, Inc. Can you work with Matthew, a former tax collector?” Despite their differences, Jesus called them to journey together. His criteria for choosing disciples was not based on commonalities; there would be misunderstandings and betrayal. Yet after His resurrection, He returned to this group and said, “As I was saying before the interruption... It’s called church.”
**Action Points:**
1. **Reach Out**: This week, reach out to someone in our community who feels excluded. Extend friendship, listen to their story, and invite them to worship or an upcoming event.
2. **Join a Small Group**: Consider personal or group Bible study. These provide opportunities to deepen your understanding of God's Word and foster connections.
3. **Serve Together**: Look for service opportunities inside and outside the church. Volunteering will help break barriers and invite others into God’s family.
4. **Share Your Story**: Identify someone who needs to hear God's message of love and inclusion. Share your faith journey and the transformative grace you have received.
5. **Pray for Inclusivity**: Pray for inclusivity within our church and community. Ask God to help you see others through His eyes and guide you in breaking down existing barriers.
As we embrace these action points, let’s remember our spiritual health is intertwined with our relationships—with God and each other. Together, let’s nurture the tree of our church community, ensuring it flourishes and provides shelter for all.
Can you say 'church'? Let's go out and live out God's call to inclusivity!