People's New Testament There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 10:1 The Doors of the Kingdom Opened to the Gentiles
SUMMARY OF ACTS 10: The Centurion Cornelius. His Vision. His Messengers Sent to Joppa. Peter's Vision the Next Day. Peter Directed to Go to Caesarea. Peter Preaches Christ to Cornelius and His Household. The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles. The Gentiles Baptized. A certain man in Caesarea. Caesarea, at this time the chief seaport of Palestine and the Roman capital, was their military headquarters. Cornelius, a centurion. Cornelius, a Gentile, a Roman officer, is one of four centurions named favorably in the New Testament: Julius (Ac 27:1-3), the centurion at the cross (Mt 27:54 Mr 15:39 Lu 23:47), and the centurion who built the synagogue at Capernaum (Lu 7:2). The office corresponded to the modern captain. The Italian band. A cohort, composed of about 600 men. Many of the conquered races served in the Roman armies, but this cohort was made up of Italians. At the residence of the Roman procurator would be placed a body of troops on which he could rely. A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 10:2 A devout man. This is stated of Gentiles in several places in Acts (Ac 10:7 13:50 17:4,17), and always means those who had abandoned heathenism and turned to Jehovah. They had not become Jews, but were trying to worship the One God. The greater part of the first Gentile converts were made up of this class. He was benevolent and a man of prayer.
He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 10:3 He saw in a vision evidently. Openly, distinctly.
About the ninth hour. Three o'clock. One of the Jewish hours of prayer. See PNT Ac 3:1. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 10:4 What is it, Lord? Filled with awe, he inquired the meaning of the appearance.
Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. He was heard because he was yearning for light and using all the light he had. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 10:5 Send men to Joppa. He is not told to go, because a soldier could not leave his post without orders, but to send. Joppa is about thirty miles south of Caesarea.
He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. 10:6 Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side. See PNT Ac 9:43. Tanners were required, by the ancient sanitary laws, to live outside city walls, and had to be near plenty of water (Hackett).
Tell thee what thou oughtest to do. As the angel says that his prayer was heard, he had surely prayed that he might know what to do. And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; 10:7 Two of his household servants, and a devout soldier. The first were his personal servants. the second his military household; all, no doubt, devout (see PNT Ac 10:2 ).
And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.
On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: 10:9 On the morrow, as they... drew nigh to the city. Starting in the evening, after three o'clock, they could be near Joppa, thirty miles distant, the next day, at the sixth hour, or about twelve o'clock.
Went up upon the house top to pray. To the flat roof of the house, surrounded by the usual balustrade about four feet high, a place of retirement, and often the sleeping place of the family in the warm season. Moses required balustrades to the roofs (De 22:8). See also 1Sa 9:25. And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, 10:10 Fell into a trance. A rapt condition, when he was transported out of himself into a mental condition that fitted him to see divine things. See 2Co 12:2 Re 1:10.
And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 10:11-15 Saw heaven opened. The meaning of the vision is plain. Peter was hungry (Ac 10:10). He saw, let down from heaven, all kinds of animals, those ceremonially unclean and prohibited by the Mosaic law, as well as others (Ac 10:11,12), and was told to kill and eat (Ac 10:13). When he answered that he had never eaten anything common (as opposed to holy) and unclean (Ac 10:14), that is, forbidden by Moses, he was told that what God had cleansed was not common or unclean (Ac 10:15). This could only mean that the ceremonial distinctions of the law were abrogated (Le 11:2-45 De 14:3-21). It was at this time that the messengers from a Gentile, one of a class, with which even Peter would not eat, yet for which Christ had died, presented themselves (Ac 10:21). The object of the vision was to show Peter that it was the will of the Lord that he should go.
Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 10:11-15 Saw heaven opened. The meaning of the vision is plain. Peter was hungry (Ac 10:10). He saw, let down from heaven, all kinds of animals, those ceremonially unclean and prohibited by the Mosaic law, as well as others (Ac 10:11,12), and was told to kill and eat (Ac 10:13). When he answered that he had never eaten anything common (as opposed to holy) and unclean (Ac 10:14), that is, forbidden by Moses, he was told that what God had cleansed was not common or unclean (Ac 10:15). This could only mean that the ceremonial distinctions of the law were abrogated (Le 11:2-45 De 14:3-21). It was at this time that the messengers from a Gentile, one of a class, with which even Peter would not eat, yet for which Christ had died, presented themselves (Ac 10:21). The object of the vision was to show Peter that it was the will of the Lord that he should go.
And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. 10:11-15 Saw heaven opened. The meaning of the vision is plain. Peter was hungry (Ac 10:10). He saw, let down from heaven, all kinds of animals, those ceremonially unclean and prohibited by the Mosaic law, as well as others (Ac 10:11,12), and was told to kill and eat (Ac 10:13). When he answered that he had never eaten anything common (as opposed to holy) and unclean (Ac 10:14), that is, forbidden by Moses, he was told that what God had cleansed was not common or unclean (Ac 10:15). This could only mean that the ceremonial distinctions of the law were abrogated (Le 11:2-45 De 14:3-21). It was at this time that the messengers from a Gentile, one of a class, with which even Peter would not eat, yet for which Christ had died, presented themselves (Ac 10:21). The object of the vision was to show Peter that it was the will of the Lord that he should go.
But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. 10:11-15 Saw heaven opened. The meaning of the vision is plain. Peter was hungry (Ac 10:10). He saw, let down from heaven, all kinds of animals, those ceremonially unclean and prohibited by the Mosaic law, as well as others (Ac 10:11,12), and was told to kill and eat (Ac 10:13). When he answered that he had never eaten anything common (as opposed to holy) and unclean (Ac 10:14), that is, forbidden by Moses, he was told that what God had cleansed was not common or unclean (Ac 10:15). This could only mean that the ceremonial distinctions of the law were abrogated (Le 11:2-45 De 14:3-21). It was at this time that the messengers from a Gentile, one of a class, with which even Peter would not eat, yet for which Christ had died, presented themselves (Ac 10:21). The object of the vision was to show Peter that it was the will of the Lord that he should go.
And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. 10:11-15 Saw heaven opened. The meaning of the vision is plain. Peter was hungry (Ac 10:10). He saw, let down from heaven, all kinds of animals, those ceremonially unclean and prohibited by the Mosaic law, as well as others (Ac 10:11,12), and was told to kill and eat (Ac 10:13). When he answered that he had never eaten anything common (as opposed to holy) and unclean (Ac 10:14), that is, forbidden by Moses, he was told that what God had cleansed was not common or unclean (Ac 10:15). This could only mean that the ceremonial distinctions of the law were abrogated (Le 11:2-45 De 14:3-21). It was at this time that the messengers from a Gentile, one of a class, with which even Peter would not eat, yet for which Christ had died, presented themselves (Ac 10:21). The object of the vision was to show Peter that it was the will of the Lord that he should go.
This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven. 10:16 This was done thrice. The voice spoke three times. See Ac 10:13,15.
Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, 10:17-23 While Peter doubted. Doubted, not what the Lord had said, but what was the special object. It was while he was thinking over the matter that the messenger came. The Spirit told him their purpose and what he must do. He, therefore, called in the men, took care of them till the next day, and then returned with them. Six Jewish brethren from Joppa went with him (Ac 11:12).
And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. 10:17-23 While Peter doubted. Doubted, not what the Lord had said, but what was the special object. It was while he was thinking over the matter that the messenger came. The Spirit told him their purpose and what he must do. He, therefore, called in the men, took care of them till the next day, and then returned with them. Six Jewish brethren from Joppa went with him (Ac 11:12).
While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. 10:17-23 While Peter doubted. Doubted, not what the Lord had said, but what was the special object. It was while he was thinking over the matter that the messenger came. The Spirit told him their purpose and what he must do. He, therefore, called in the men, took care of them till the next day, and then returned with them. Six Jewish brethren from Joppa went with him (Ac 11:12).
Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them. 10:17-23 While Peter doubted. Doubted, not what the Lord had said, but what was the special object. It was while he was thinking over the matter that the messenger came. The Spirit told him their purpose and what he must do. He, therefore, called in the men, took care of them till the next day, and then returned with them. Six Jewish brethren from Joppa went with him (Ac 11:12).
Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? 10:17-23 While Peter doubted. Doubted, not what the Lord had said, but what was the special object. It was while he was thinking over the matter that the messenger came. The Spirit told him their purpose and what he must do. He, therefore, called in the men, took care of them till the next day, and then returned with them. Six Jewish brethren from Joppa went with him (Ac 11:12).
And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. 10:17-23 While Peter doubted. Doubted, not what the Lord had said, but what was the special object. It was while he was thinking over the matter that the messenger came. The Spirit told him their purpose and what he must do. He, therefore, called in the men, took care of them till the next day, and then returned with them. Six Jewish brethren from Joppa went with him (Ac 11:12).
Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. 10:17-23 While Peter doubted. Doubted, not what the Lord had said, but what was the special object. It was while he was thinking over the matter that the messenger came. The Spirit told him their purpose and what he must do. He, therefore, called in the men, took care of them till the next day, and then returned with them. Six Jewish brethren from Joppa went with him (Ac 11:12).
And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends. 10:24 And the morrow after. Parts of two days were employed on the journey.
Cornelius... had called together his kinsmen and near friends, who were like-minded with himself. And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. Ac 10:25,26 Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet. Meeting him, as he entered, he cast himself at his feet as God's messenger. Observe Peter's conduct: Instead of receiving worship, as the popes who claim to be his successors, he forbade him, as he was only a man. Not even an angel ought to be worshiped (Re 22:8,9), only God.
But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. Ac 10:25,26 Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet. Meeting him, as he entered, he cast himself at his feet as God's messenger. Observe Peter's conduct: Instead of receiving worship, as the popes who claim to be his successors, he forbade him, as he was only a man. Not even an angel ought to be worshiped (Re 22:8,9), only God.
And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. Ac 10:25,26 Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet. Meeting him, as he entered, he cast himself at his feet as God's messenger. Observe Peter's conduct: Instead of receiving worship, as the popes who claim to be his successors, he forbade him, as he was only a man. Not even an angel ought to be worshiped (Re 22:8,9), only God.
And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 10:28 Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing. Contrary to Jewish customs. Moses prohibited intermarriages and religious intercourse, but the Jews carried their restrictions beyond both the letter and spirit of the law. They would not eat with the uncircumcised (Ga 2:12).
Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?
And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,
And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.
Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.
Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 10:33 Therefore are we all here present before God, to hear. It was an assembly of devout men (see PNT Ac 10:2 ) who recognized the fact that Peter had a message of the Lord for them; the first Gentile audience that ever listened to a gospel sermon.
Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth. The same preacher who, on the day of Pentecost, declared the conditions of salvation to the Jews now declares them for the first time to the Gentiles. To him Christ gave the keys of the kingdom (Mt 16:19), and with them he opened its doors to both Jew and Gentile.
I perceive that God is no respecter of persons. It has just dawned on him that Jew and Gentile are on the same footing in God's sight. Those who fear the Lord in any nation, of any race, will be accepted. But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 10:36 The word which God sent to the children of Israel. The message of Christ.
That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 10:37 That word, I say, ye know. Have heard of, but not fully.
After the baptism which John preached. Christ's ministry began from his baptism by John (see Joh 1:22). How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth. At his baptism, and made him the Anointed (Mt 3:16,17 Mr 1:10,11 Lu 3:21,22). He gives a condensed summary of the ministry of Jesus. Luke has only preserved the substance of what Peter said.
And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 10:39 We are witnesses. Not only of his life and power, but of his resurrection (see PNT Ac 1:21 ).
Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 10:42 He commanded us to preach unto the people. In the Great Commission (Mt 28:18-20 Mr 16:14-18).
To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness. By their testimony of the Christ, which is so prominent a feature of prophecy. See Isa 53:11 55:1-3 Joe 2:32.
That through his name, etc. Three important facts are stated: (1) that remission of sins is in the name of Christ; (2) that it is only granted on condition of belief upon him; that is, trust in his name; (3) that whosoever believes thus, Jew or Gentile, shall receive remission of sins. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 10:44 The Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. The kinsmen and intimate friends of Cornelius, as well as on him (Ac 10:24).
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. 10:45 They of the circumcision. The Jews who went with Peter. They were astonished that the Holy Spirit should fall on Gentiles. This miraculous outpouring was extraordinary, and the object is plain, viz: to convince Peter and his fellow Jews that God had accepted the Gentiles; the same reason for which Peter's vision had been given. This is the only instance recorded of the Spirit falling on unbaptized persons. This exception is made to convince the Jewish Christians that uncircumcised Gentiles were fit subjects of baptism. Peter had to recall this fact in order to convince the church at Jerusalem that he had done right (Ac 11:2,3,15). As on Pentecost the Holy Spirit fell on Jews, so now when Gentiles receive the Gospel they are baptized with the Holy Spirit (Ac 11:15,16).
For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 10:47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized? Peter's scruples were overcome. He was now satisfied that the gospel was for Gentiles as well as Jews. God had made no difference in the baptism of the Holy Spirit. He asks his Jewish brethren if any man can give a reason why they should not be baptized. Wesley says:
How easily is the question decided if we take the word of God for our rule. Either men have received the Holy Spirit, or not. If they have not, then Repent, saith God, and be baptized, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Ac 2:38). If they have been baptized with the Holy Spirit, then who can forbid water ?'' And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. 10:48 Commanded them to be baptized. All who heard and upon whom the Holy Spirit fell. In the name of the Lord. In acknowledgment of his authority. All the baptisms of Acts are in his name, but into the names of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The People's New Testament by B.W. Johnson [1891] Bible Hub |
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