We reach a crucial point in the spread of the gospel in this chapter. God has heard the prayers of Cornelius, Peter is nearby, and it’s time for the gospel to be given to the gentiles. I think that because this could very well have gone badly, that God carefully orchestrated what took place. Cornelius is told to send for Peter. Peter is taught that God can make clean whatever he chooses to make clean, including the gentiles. And Peter is then told that three men are coming and to follow them. And he does. The gospel is preached, the spirit is given, and baptism follows. Hooray!
What piques your interest in this chapter? I admit to a real fondness for this line, “In Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian Cohort, as it was called.” (10:1 NRSV).
I found myself underlining and circling most of 34-48, when Peter addresses Cornelius, his family, and close friends.
Curious why you had a fondness for that line?? 😁
Thanks for asking. The way that line was phrased reminded me of a movie, “The Court Jester.” Check out Danny Kaye’s comment on the Italian Court about 30 seconds into this clip.
https://youtu.be/g_lAFDbnMLA
Oh my — that looks like a very fun movie! 😆😆. Makes me smile that came to your mind! 😁
One of our family favorites.