“Badges of Faith”

June 23, 2024

Series: Sunday Sermons

Book: Acts

Pastor Wes’s sermon, based on selected verses from Acts 10, emphasizes the theme of inclusivity in the early Christian church. He reflects on his childhood experience as a safety patrol member, drawing parallels to the apostle Peter’s adherence to Jewish dietary laws. In Acts 10, Peter receives a vision from God, instructing him to eat foods previously considered unclean, symbolizing the breaking of traditional boundaries. Despite initial resistance, Peter learns that God’s love transcends cultural and religious barriers, as exemplified by the inclusion of Cornelius, a Gentile and Roman centurion, into the faith community. Pastor Wes challenges the congregation to examine their own “badges” or unwritten rules that may hinder embracing others fully, urging them to draw the circle wider and practice a faith that is both curious and creative.