Definition: And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 11:7. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage! Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Story: This verse comes about after the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem are worried about Peter, who had been preaching about Jesus, and they want him silenced. They believe his preaching is a threat to their religious traditions. What’s Happening? A Vision: Peter is walking through the wilderness when he has a vivid vision – he hears a voice telling him to “Arise, Peter; slay and eat.” The Voice: The voice isn't from God, but from a demonic being (often interpreted as Satan). It’s essentially commanding Peter to do something incredibly violent. Slaying and Eating: The voice instructs Peter to kill and eat a goat. What Does it Mean? This is where it gets complex, and there are different interpretations: It's a Symbolic Representation: Many Christians believe this isn’t about literal killing a goat. It's a powerful metaphor for a spiritual battle between good and evil. The "voice" represents Satan trying to stop the spread of God's message. A Test of Faith: Some interpret it as a test of Peter’s faith. He was facing immense pressure, and this vision was meant to challenge him and push him to do what was right – to stand firm in his belief in Jesus. It's About Courage & Obedience: Ultimately, the verse highlights the importance of standing up for your beliefs, even when it’s difficult. It speaks to a willingness to follow God’s will, even when others disagree with you. Important Context - The Larger Story: This verse is part of a larger story in Acts about the early church. Peter was preaching about Jesus and facing opposition. This vision represents an escalating struggle between good and evil – a battle that continues to this day. In short, "Arise, Peter; slay and eat" isn't a literal command. It’s a symbolic reminder that we must stand firm in our faith and resist evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Acts 11? Discuss the different interpretations of this verse?