[:en]Cornelius Calls for Peter (vs. 1-9)
Caesarea was the most important city port on the Mediterarean in Palestine. It served as the capital of the Roman province of Judea, and the first city to have Gentile Christians a non-Jewish church.
Cornelius was devout and God-fearing who gave generously and prayed regularly. An angel of the Lord appeared to him and told him to bring Peter who was staying with Simon the tanner at Joppa.
Peter’s Vision (vs. 9-23)
According to Jewish law, certain foods were considered unclean and forbidden to be eaten (Lev. 11). That’s why it was difficult for the Jews to eat with the Gentiles for fear of defilement. God gave Peter a vision showing him not to look upon the Gentiles as inferior people. He was sent to a Gentile home and tell Cornelius the Good News of salvation of Jesus Christ.
Peter at Cornelius House (vs. 24-48)
When Peter entered Cornelius house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. Peter immediately told him to get up because he was only a man. Instead, he introduced Christ to Cornelius. When you are flattered or honored, use the opportunity to give glory to God.
Despite of his background and personal feelings, Peter obeyed God to take the good news to a Roman. We should also not to allow any barrier to keep us from telling others about Christ.
In any nation, there are people seeking for God but someone must take it to them. Are you willing to be that someone?
Peter’ sermon contained a statement of the God News consisted of the following message: The good news of peace through Jesus Christ; Jesus is the Lord with Holy Spirit and power, His death and resurrection; the forgiveness of sins through His name, and God as judge of the living and the dead. A sermon does not need to be long to be effective. It should be Spirit led and center on Christ who is the way to the truth and the light.
The gift of the Holy Spirit was being poured out on the Gentiles as they spoke in tongues praising God. They were baptized publicly declaring their allegiance to Christ and their identification with the Christian community. Cornelius urged Peter to stay with them for a few days to learn more about Christ. Do you recognize your need to be with mature Christians to learn more about Jesus?
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