Definition: And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 10:4. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising passage! Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was about to be offered as a sacrifice to the Jewish authorities. They were worried he would change their minds and reject the plan for his crucifixion. As Jesus was being prepared, He looked at this man – who is identified as a Samaritan (a group that wasn’t part of Judaism). What Happened Next: Fear & Questioning: Jesus felt fear! He recognized that this man was facing a significant and potentially dangerous situation. The Lord’s Response: He immediately turned to God and said, “Lord? What is it?” It's like he was asking, "What’s happening here?" What It Means – A Simplified Translation: This verse essentially says: “Jesus felt a little bit worried about this man. He realized that the Jewish authorities were expecting him to be sacrificed, and he asked God, 'What is it you want me to do?'” Key Takeaway: It’s a moment of recognition and humility . Jesus wasn't just focused on his own fate; he was acknowledging the power and presence of God. He wasn't expecting anything specific, but rather being guided by divine will. Why it’s significant: This is often seen as an example of Jesus’ growing authority and understanding of what's right – that God is in control, even when things seem difficult. It shows his connection to the divine and his willingness to submit to His plan. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss a specific theme within this passage (like faith, humility, or obedience)?