34 Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realise how true it is that GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVOURITISM 35 but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. Acts 10
Peter’s first words to those gathered in Cornelius’ house, before the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentiles and the Church was birthed. Other versions present his words as;
God does not show partiality NKJV, God is no respecter of persons KJV, God treats everyone on the same basis TPT, and God does not love some people more than others WE.
This truth is repeated in multiple places through the Word, so God has emphasised this aspect of His character and dealings with mankind.
Moses referred to this when he had judges appointed for Israel, another significant time for God’s people.
16 And I charged your judges at that time, ‘Hear the disputes between your people and JUDGE FAIRLY, whether the case is between two Israelites or between an Israelite and a foreigner residing among you (foreigners had the right to be heard in court!) 17 DO NOT SHOW PARTIALITY IN JUDGING; hear both small and great alike. Do not be afraid of anyone, FOR JUDGEMENT BELONGS TO GOD. Bring me any case too hard for you, and I will hear it.’ Deuteronomy 1
We hear much talk today about the goings on in places of judgement, like the Supreme Court of the United States, or the European Union. I wonder how many who sit in these courts realise that ‘judgement belongs to the Lord’ and is an extension of His authority in Heaven? Moses told the newly appointed judges to judge small and great alike, impartially and to fear no-one.
14 To the Lord your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it.
16 Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer. 17 For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, WHO SHOWS NO PARTIALITY AND ACCEPTS NO BRIBES.
The verses that follow the Supreme Authority of God in the heavens and His justice, show that He is also a Caring God.
18 He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. 19 And you are to LOVE THOSE WHO ARE FOREIGNERS, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt. Deuteronomy 10
God commanded Israel to Love the foreigner, because of all they had experienced in Egypt. Sometimes our own lives equip us to show love and kindness to people of whom others are unaware. A cousin and his family came home for a visit, from Namibia, south west Africa and the children’s nanny accompanied them (indigenous Namibian). As she walked along a main street in Belfast, another couple from Namibia recognised her features and spoke with her in her native tongue, an amazing coincidence. We may also recognise something in others and be able to connect with them when they may feel alone.
God shows love to all people and His justice is righteous towards all. He calls us to be like Him.
God bless and keep you today.