The author of Luke/Acts gives the story of Peter and Cornelius in seven acts. It is a pivotal story in Acts–will the gospel move from Jerusalem into the rest of the known world? As the story unfolds, the roles change. At first Peter is the guest of Simon and then becomes the host of the three visitors from Cornelius. At Cornelius’ home he is a welcome guest, and yet in that role offers the gift of the gospel and of baptism. He returns to Jerusalem, sharing his experiences with his home church community. In the fluidity of roles, from guest to host, Peter discovers the radical nature of God’s welcome, a welcome that extends beyond social or religious boundaries.
