Cornelius…was a devout man who feared God - Konelio…o se tagata faamaoni e mata’u i le Atua

Scripture Focus: Galuega 10:1-24

Now there was a certain man in Caesarea, Cornelius by name, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, a devout man, and one who feared God with all his house, who gave gifts for the needy generously to the people, and always prayed to God. At about the ninth hour of the day, he clearly saw in a vision an angel of God coming to him, and saying to him, “Cornelius!” He, fastening his eyes on him, and being frightened, said, “What is it, Lord?” He said to him, “Your prayers and your gifts to the needy have gone up for a memorial before God. Now send men to Joppa, and get Simon, who is also called Peter. He lodges with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the seaside. When the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier of those who waited on him continually. Having explained everything to them, he sent them to Joppa. Now on the next day as they were on their journey, and got close to the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray at about noon. He became hungry and desired to eat, but while they were preparing, he fell into a trance. He saw heaven opened and a certain container descending to him, like a great sheet let down by four corners on the earth, in which were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild animals, reptiles, and birds of the sky. A voice came to him, “Rise, Peter, kill and eat!” But Peter said, “Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” A voice came to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed, you must not call unclean.” This was done three times, and immediately the vessel was received up into heaven. Now while Peter was very perplexed in himself what the vision which he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon’s house, stood before the gate, and called and asked whether Simon, who was also called Peter, was lodging there. While Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men seek you. But arise, get down, and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.” Peter went down to the men, and said, “Behold, I am he whom you seek. Why have you come?” They said, “Cornelius, a centurion, a righteous man and one who fears God, and well spoken of by all the nation of the Jews, was directed by a holy angel to invite you to his house, and to listen to what you say.” So he called them in and lodged them. On the next day Peter arose and went out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. On the next day they entered into Caesarea. Cornelius was waiting for them, having called together his relatives and his near friends.
- Acts 10:1-24 (WEB)

Study:

This passage marks a pivotal moment in the early church – the inclusion of Gentiles! Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is presented as a God-fearing man, yet outside the covenant community of Israel. He receives a vision instructing him to seek out Peter. Simultaneously, Peter receives a vision challenging his understanding of clean and unclean food, preparing him to accept Cornelius. God clearly demonstrates that salvation is not limited to the Jews. The Lord responds to genuine faith, regardless of nationality or social standing. This story highlights God's proactive initiative in reaching out to those who seek Him, and it challenges us to examine our own biases and preconceptions about who God works through.

Application:

The story of Cornelius compels us to consider who we might be excluding, intentionally or unintentionally. Like Peter, we might hold onto traditions or prejudices that hinder us from embracing God’s inclusive love. Are there groups of people we avoid, or assumptions we make, that prevent us from seeing them as God sees them – as individuals worthy of love and the Gospel message? The early church grew exponentially when they understood they were to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). This passage reminds us that God's grace is available to all and that we are called to share it without barriers.

Reflection Questions:

• How does this story challenge your understanding of God’s grace?
• Are there any unconscious biases you need to address?
• In what ways can you actively seek to include others who may feel excluded?
• How can we apply the lesson of embracing others regardless of their background to our lives today?

Prayer:

Loving God, open our eyes to see others as you see them, and help us to tear down any walls that separate us. Forgive us for our prejudices and biases, and fill us with your love and compassion. Empower us to be instruments of your peace, reaching out to all people with the Gospel message. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: Acts, Cornelius, Peter, Gentiles, Inclusion, Early Church, Vision, Faith, Romans, God's Grace, Prejudice, Biblical Study