“Thus, he called for Peter and John. They should have stayed in Jerusalem”
I don’t know what version of the bible this comes from but mine says they went to Samaria because the Jerusalem church sent them to confirm what was taking place there (Acts 8:12-14, “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:”) . If people were believing and being baptized, the Holy Spirit was there. They had not been “baptized” in the Holy Spirit, just like the 120 in the upper room before Pentecost.
As to Samaria, the Great Commission does not exclude it; it says go into all the world, with no exception. The persecution caused the disciples, including Philip, to disperse and carry the gospel to the uttermost parts, including Samaria, where Jesus taught.
You are absolutely correct. [Acts 8:12-14] But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
This was done in direct violation of The Lord's command to them here: [Matthew 10:5-6] These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
I guess you have to ask yourself....."Who should I believe and trust in? The Jerusalem Church....or my Lord and Saviour?"
No one is saying that Samaria, or Outer Mongolia or any other place on this Earth would not be evangelized. The Lord saw to it when He selected Paul, Timothy, Barnabas and others.....not of "THESE TWELVE"!
I'm reading the same Bible you are. Why do you think this happened? [Acts 10:44-46] While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter. And also this: [Acts 11:1-3] And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
Because.....The Twelve were told to not evangelize the Gentiles or go to Samaria. God would see to it that someone else would undertake that task! That is why they were so astonished and critical of Peter....until they understood that the Holy Spirit had directed him to do this to show a way for the Gentiles also.
Enter Paul!