Acts 10:1-8

This is a significant event, as it represents a transition from the message being preached primarily to the Jews to now including the Gentiles; although, as we will see in the coming days, Peter needed some convincing.

Cornelius, a Gentile Roman soldier, is the captain over 600 men. He is a devout man who loves God, as does his entire household, and God chooses him to be the first Gentile focus of the Gospel. Undoubtedly, because of his position of influence, the Gospel would spread dramatically. According to early Christian tradition, Cornelius later became the first Bishop of Caesarea.

Cornelius receives a vision in which an angel of God tells him that his prayers and offerings have been received by God. He is instructed to send for Simon Peter in Joppa, a town some 35 miles away—a day’s journey by foot. Remember, they didn’t have phones or GPS, yet the angel gives Cornelius specific names, a location, and even a vocation to help identify whom he is to contact.

Notice there is no doubt or second-guessing. Cornelius does not hesitate, but instead tells two of his servants and a devout soldier what happened and instructs them to go fetch Peter for him. This was not a little task just down the street, but rather a day’s journey on foot with only a couple of names to guide them.

Interestingly, the Scripture says that Cornelius stared at the angel in “terror.” Remember, this is an accomplished soldier who commands over 600 men and likely doesn’t get rattled by much. Angels are fearsome creatures. One angel in the Old Testament killed over 80,000 men—they are not what is often depicted as little cherubs playing harps while sitting on clouds. They are part of the host and army of heaven—not to be trifled with. That may also help explain Cornelius’ prompt response.

What stands out to me is Cornelius’ immediate obedience to God’s instruction, even though he did not fully understand what God was about to do. God was orchestrating divine appointments behind the scenes, bringing together people from completely different worlds in order to expand His Kingdom. Sometimes we only see a small piece of the puzzle, but God sees the whole picture. Our responsibility is not to have all the answers, but to respond in faith and obedience when He speaks. One act of obedience can open the door for countless lives to be impacted by the Gospel.