34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him.” (Acts 10:34–35, NKJV)
God’s love for sinners is unconditional: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son…” (Jno. 3:16). God’s salvation of sinners is conditional: “…that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (Jno. 3:16). Today’s verse helps explain the condition of faith (“whoever believes in Him”) that saves sinners “by grace” (Eph. 2:8). First, God’s conditions for salvation are impartial. God’s very nature demands it to be so. Next, salvation conditions are universal (“in every nation”). Next, we learn that “whoever believes in Him” is one who fears God. Reverence for God implies one fully submits to God’s will, not his own. Such a submission, reverent faith “works righteousness.” That is, this person is obeys the commands of Jesus in order to be saved. Jesus and His apostles commanded belief, repentance, confession of faith and water baptism to be saved (Mk. 16:15-16; Acts 2:37-38; 22:16; Rom. 10:9-10). Do you fear God? Will you work righteousness? If so, He will accept you. Yes, salvation is conditional, and Jesus Christ sets the conditions (Matt. 28:18-20).
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