Acts 10:16

16 And this thing was done by thrice; and at once [and anon] the vessel was received 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 And Peter said, Lord, forbid [Lord, far be it from me], for I never eat any common thing and unclean.

15 And again the second time the voice was made to him, That thing that God hath cleansed, say thou not unclean [That thing that God hath cleansed, thou shalt not say unclean].

16 And this thing was done by thrice; and at once [and anon] the vessel was received again into heaven.

17 And while that Peter doubted within himself, what the vision was that he saw, lo! the men, that were sent from Cornelius, sought the house of Simon, and stood at the gate. [And the while Peter within himself doubted, what the vision was which he saw, lo! the men, that were sent from Cornelius, seeking the house of Simon, stood nigh at the gate.]

18 And when they had called, they asked if Simon, that is named Peter [that was named Peter], had there harbour.