Make It So

"While Peter was still speaking these things, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening to the word. The circumcised believers who had accompanied Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit should have been poured out on the Gentiles also, for they could hear them speaking in tongues and glorifying God.

Then Peter responded, 'Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit even as we have?' He ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. " - Acts 10:44-48

There's still a bit of entitlement in the air with Peter's Jewish followers - Peter's already committed major breaches in the Jewish law, which no doubt set those with him on edge. But how shocking it must have been for them to witness this event - Gentiles - folks the Jews looked down upon - have been blessed by God. What soul searching they must have had to do after this!

But, in the words of a famous 24th century captain, God is telling Peter very clearly to "make it so" - so Peter orders the baptism of these Gentiles. Not as Jews - but as Christians. He's prayed with them, preached to them, and talked right to their hearts. They've experienced the power of God. A God they've been missing out on for so many generations, and now is the time for them to follow the new path.

And from here, an entirely new religion is born. Baptized with the Holy Spirit, and sent out across the earth to preach the Good News. No matter what.

(And for fans of that 24th century captain, consider this the first "prime directive". (-: )