Why did God instruct Cornelius to send for Simon Peter in Acts 10:5? Setting the Scene: Cornelius and the Angelic Visit • Cornelius, “a devout man and one who feared God” (Acts 10:2), received an unmistakable vision. • The angel said, “Your prayers and almsgiving have ascended as a memorial before God” (Acts 10:4). • Then came the specific order: “Now send men to Joppa to call for a man named Simon who is called Peter” (Acts 10:5). Why the Angel Did Not Preach Himself • God has chosen the preaching of the gospel through human messengers (Romans 10:14–15). • Angels deliver announcements, but salvation’s message is entrusted to people redeemed by Christ (Hebrews 2:16). • The command protected the divine pattern: faith comes by hearing “the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17) from Spirit-filled witnesses. Peter’s God-Given Role • Jesus gave Peter “the keys of the kingdom” (Matthew 16:19), making him the appointed opener of gospel doors. • Peter had already opened the door to Jews (Acts 2) and Samaritans (Acts 8:14–17). Cornelius represented the Gentiles—Peter must unlock this final door. • Peter’s presence would authenticate Gentile inclusion to the Jerusalem church (Acts 11:1–18; 15:7–9). Purposes Served by This Divine Appointment • Salvation for Cornelius and his household – “He will convey a message to you by which you and all your household will be saved” (Acts 11:14). • Demonstration of God’s impartiality – “God shows no favoritism” (Acts 10:34). • Fulfillment of prophetic promise – Isaiah 49:6 foretold light to the nations; Peter’s sermon made it concrete. • Unity of the one body in Christ – Ephesians 2:14–18 highlights Jew-Gentile reconciliation; Acts 10 gives the historical hinge. • Confirmation by supernatural signs – The Spirit fell while Peter was speaking (Acts 10:44–46), mirroring Pentecost and proving God’s approval. What Happened Because Cornelius Obeyed • Peter preached Christ’s life, death, and resurrection (Acts 10:39–41). • All who believed received forgiveness (Acts 10:43). • The Holy Spirit was poured out on Gentiles (Acts 10:44–45). • They were baptized in Jesus’ name (Acts 10:47–48). Practical Takeaways for Today • God hears and remembers sincere seekers, but saving truth still comes through the gospel. • Obedience to a specific command can unlock blessings for many others. • No cultural or ethnic barrier is too great for the reach of Christ’s redemption. |
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