How does Acts 10:21 connect to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?

Acts 10:21 in Context

“Peter went down to the men and said, ‘Here am I, the one you are looking for. Why have you come?’” (Acts 10:21)

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The Great Commission Restated

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

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Bridging the Two Passages

• “Go” in Matthew becomes action in Acts: Peter literally goes down to the Gentile messengers from Cornelius.

• “All nations” starts coming to life: these men represent the first fully Gentile household to receive the gospel.

• Jesus promised His presence; the Spirit’s prompt in Acts 10:19-20 (“Get up! Go with them without hesitation…”) shows that promise being kept.

• Teaching obedience: Peter’s forthcoming message (vv. 34-43) will call Cornelius’s household to repentance, faith, and baptism—exactly the discipling pattern Jesus laid out.

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Key Takeaways

• Acts 10:21 is the first concrete step of the Church obeying the Great Commission beyond Jewish borders.

• Peter’s immediate response models the readiness every disciple should have when God opens a door (2 Timothy 4:2).

• The episode confirms that the gospel is for “everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16), fulfilling Jesus’ universal mandate.

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Lessons for Today

• Stay sensitive to the Spirit’s nudge; divine appointments often look like unexpected visitors.

• Crossing cultural lines is not optional—Christ’s command still targets “all nations.”

• Confidence comes from Christ’s continued presence; as He was with Peter, He is with us (Hebrews 13:5-6).