Acts 10:1-48

A gospel for all people

In this passage is a key moment for the early church. It solved the problem of how Jews & Gentiles could exist within the same church. God clearly showed Peter that He is not a God of favouritism.

Cornelius - a good man

Cornelius, by all appearances was a good man. He was devout, generous, and prayed continuously. But he was not saved. This is a stark reminder that being what is considered a good person is not enough. They need to hear the message of salvation, belieive in Christ by name, repent from sin, and live the life God desires for them.

God used Peter to present that message to Cornelius. God had removed all of Peter's hangups about engaging in evangelism with Gentiles through his vision, and so he could preach with power to all in Cornelius' house. While Cornelius had a vision, that is not what saved him - the vision only lead him to hear the gospel. He was saved by God's grace in offering him the opportunity to accept what he heard.

Two applications

There are 2 characters in the passage, and so there are 2 applications.

Are you a Peter? Are you always seeking opportunities to be used by God to present the gospel - maybe even to someone you might have not expected?

Are you a Cornelius? Are you a good person who still isn't saved, and needs to seek out the gospel and receive God's gift of grace?