Topical Bible: Religion: Outstanding Religious Persons: Cornelius, Another Centurion

◄ Religion: Outstanding Religious Persons: Cornelius, Another Centurion ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Cornelius, a centurion in the Italian Regiment, is a significant figure in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts. His account is pivotal in the early Christian Church as it marks the opening of the Gospel to the Gentiles, demonstrating God's impartiality and the universality of the Christian message.

Background and Character

Cornelius is introduced in Acts 10:1-2 as a devout man who feared God, along with his entire household. He is described as generous, giving alms to the people, and as one who prayed continually to God. This description highlights his piety and reverence for the God of Israel, despite being a Gentile and a Roman officer. His character is further emphasized by his reputation among the Jewish people, who respected him for his devoutness and charitable deeds.

Divine Vision and Peter's Visit

Cornelius's account unfolds with a divine encounter. In Acts 10:3-6, Cornelius receives a vision in which an angel of God instructs him to send men to Joppa to bring back Simon Peter. The angel acknowledges Cornelius's prayers and alms as a memorial offering before God, indicating divine approval of his faith and actions.

Simultaneously, Peter receives a vision in which he is shown a sheet with various animals and is told to "kill and eat" (Acts 10:13). This vision challenges Peter's understanding of Jewish dietary laws and prepares him for the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian faith. When Cornelius's men arrive, Peter, led by the Holy Spirit, agrees to accompany them to Caesarea.

The Meeting and the Holy Spirit

Upon Peter's arrival, Cornelius gathers his relatives and close friends, demonstrating his eagerness to share the message he is about to receive. In Acts 10:25-26, Cornelius falls at Peter's feet in reverence, but Peter lifts him up, emphasizing that he is merely a man. This interaction underscores the humility and respect Cornelius has for God's messengers.

Peter then shares the Gospel, proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord of all and recounting His life, death, and resurrection. As Peter speaks, the Holy Spirit descends upon all who hear the message, including the Gentiles present (Acts 10:44-46). This event astonishes the Jewish believers who accompanied Peter, as they witness the Gentiles receiving the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues.

Baptism and Acceptance

Recognizing the work of the Holy Spirit, Peter declares, "Can anyone withhold the water to baptize these people? They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have!" (Acts 10:47). Cornelius and his household are then baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, signifying their full inclusion into the Christian community.

Significance in Early Christianity

Cornelius's conversion is a watershed moment in the early Church, illustrating the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles. His account is a testament to God's impartiality, as Peter acknowledges in Acts 10:34-35, "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 faith, obedience, and openness to God's leading serve as an example for believers, highlighting the importance of prayer, generosity, and readiness to embrace God's will. His narrative underscores the transformative power of the Gospel and the inclusive nature of God's kingdom, extending beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries.