Acts 10:16

16 This was done thrice, and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

Acts 10:16 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 10:16

This was done thrice
That is, either the voice spoke the same words three times, or the sheet was let down three times; and it may be both; it may be, that every time the voice was spoke, the sheet was let down: this was done, not with respect to any mystical meaning in the number three, but for the confirmation of Peter, that he might be the more firmly assured of the truth of the things represented unto him:

and the vessel was received up again into heaven;
to denote, that when the general assembly and church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven, whether Jews or Gentiles, are all gathered in, by the preaching of the Gospel to them, they will be taken up to heaven, their original and native place, and be for ever with the Lord; as well as to certify to Peter, that what was now shown him on earth, concerning the taking away the distinction of men and meats, was ratified in heaven.

Acts 10:16 In-Context

14 But Peter said, "Not so, Lord, for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean."

15 And the voice spoke unto him again the second time, "What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common."

16 This was done thrice, and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

17 Now while Peter wondered to himself what this vision which he had seen could mean, behold, the men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house and stood before the gate,

18 and called and asked whether Simon, who was surnamed Peter, was lodged there.