Book of Acts - Chapter 10 - Verse 16
Meaning
The verse "This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven" refers to the miraculous event described in the book of Acts where Peter, one of the disciples of Jesus, had a vision from God. In the vision, he saw a sheet descending from heaven containing all kinds of animals, both clean and unclean according to Jewish dietary laws. A voice instructed Peter to 'kill and eat' but Peter refused, citing the Jewish laws. This vision occurred three times, emphasizing its importance and significance. This event was a crucial moment in the early Christian church as it represented a shift towards inclusivity and the recognition that the message of Jesus was meant for all people, not just the Jewish community. By receiving the vessel back up into heaven, it symbolized the acceptance and approval of this new understanding by God. It was a turning point in the Christian faith, leading to the spread of the gospel to all nations.