Acts chapter 10 v1-8:

Acts chapter 10 v1-8:

V1-2:  We learn of a Roman centurion named Cornelius – the “Italian cohort” suggests something of an elite regiment, as against those which contained many non-Roman troops from other parts of the Empire. He is now living ( and  stationed ) at Caesarea, about 40 miles north of Joppa. He is, we’re told, ” a devout man”, a God-fearer, as Gentiles who had come to worship the living God of Israel but not become full proselytes, were called, and all his household it seems share this awareness of God – who by His grace is preparing many Gentile hearts for the gospel at this time. He is also a man of genuine compassion, and of prayer.

V3-4:  God sends him a vision of an angel, who addresses him by name. He is awed and frightened, addressing the angel as “Lord” – a title properly applied only to God, and to the Lord Jesus in particular, in the NT. Perhaps there is a confused recognition that this is a messenger from God. The angel tells him that God is mindful of his charitable acts and of his sincere prayers, this does not, of course, mean that he has “earned” God’s grace by these things, but that God is nevertheless aware of them.

V5-6:  The angel tells Cornelius to send to Joppa for Simon Peter, and where he will be found. Truly, all things are known to the Omnipotent God, and His eye is ever upon His people.

V7-8:  Cornelius at once sends trusted messengers – 2 servants ( from his “devout household” ( v2.) and a soldier, who is also a “devout” man. Seemingly, Cornelius, even as a “God-fearer”, has a godly influence on those around him. Do we?