Topical Bible: Fasting: Habitual by Cornelius

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Introduction

Fasting, as a spiritual discipline, is a practice observed throughout the Bible, often associated with prayer, repentance, and seeking God's guidance. In the New Testament, Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian Regiment, is noted for his habitual fasting, which played a significant role in the early Christian church's expansion to the Gentiles. This entry explores the practice of fasting as exemplified by Cornelius, highlighting its significance and implications within the biblical narrative.

Cornelius: A Devout Man

Cornelius is introduced in Acts 10 as a devout man who feared God, gave generously to those in need, and prayed continually. His character is described in Acts 10:2 : "He and all his household were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to the people and prayed to God regularly." Cornelius's devotion to God is further emphasized by his practice of fasting, which is implied in the narrative as part of his spiritual discipline.

The Vision and Divine Encounter

Cornelius's habitual fasting is indirectly referenced in the account of his vision. Acts 10:30 records Cornelius explaining to Peter, "Four days ago, I was fasting until this hour, and at the ninth hour, I was praying in my house, and suddenly a man in radiant clothing stood before me." This passage indicates that Cornelius was engaged in fasting and prayer when he received a divine visitation, underscoring the importance of fasting as a means of spiritual preparation and receptivity to God's guidance.

Significance of Cornelius's Fasting

1. Spiritual Sensitivity and Openness: Cornelius's fasting is portrayed as a practice that heightened his spiritual sensitivity, allowing him to receive God's message through an angelic visitation. His openness to divine instruction is a testament to the transformative power of fasting in aligning one's heart and mind with God's will.

2. Catalyst for Gentile Inclusion: The vision received by Cornelius during his fast led to a pivotal moment in the early church—the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian faith. Acts 10:34-35 records Peter's realization, "I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right." Cornelius's fasting and subsequent actions played a crucial role in breaking down ethnic and cultural barriers, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of personal spiritual disciplines on the broader community.

3. Model of Devotion: Cornelius serves as a model of devout living, illustrating how habitual fasting, coupled with prayer and almsgiving, can lead to profound spiritual encounters and divine favor. His life exemplifies the integration of fasting into a holistic spiritual practice that encompasses worship, service, and obedience to God.

Conclusion

While Cornelius's account does not explicitly detail the frequency or specific nature of his fasting, the biblical account highlights its significance in his spiritual journey and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. His example encourages believers to consider fasting as a vital component of their spiritual discipline, fostering a deeper relationship with God and openness to His leading.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 10:30
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,
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Letter v. Prayer and Fasting.
... It was in answer to the prayers of Cornelius, that Peter ... him to spend his gained
time in fasting and prayer ... I praise thee." And it was the habitual practice of ...
/.../letter v prayer and fasting.htm

Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount
... For instance: Your habitual abstinence or temperance would ... always joined prayer and
fasting together; thus ... the angel declares to Cornelius, fasting and praying ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 27 upon our lords.htm

Acts XIII
... to which I have called them." The fasting, prayer, and ... city, and many of whom, like
Cornelius, had learned ... loose from his feet." This was a habitual saying of ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xiii.htm

Letter cxxv. To Rusticus.
... his hunger satisfied by the faith of Cornelius, and stilled ... of whose desire neither
continual fasting nor the ... Things at first compulsory will become habitual. ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cxxv to rusticus.htm

Acts IX
... Testament, with the single exception of Cornelius, the gift ... like Ananias, to see
man fasting and weeping ... to listen more favorably to an habitual opponent than ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts ix.htm

Against Jovinianus.
... For he promised that if they would prefer fulness to fasting they should be immortal,
as though it were an impossibility for them to fall; and while he ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against jovinianus.htm