By Andrew Williams
Acts 10:4-6 (NLT): “Cornelius stared at him in terror. ‘What is it, sir?’ he asked the angel. And the angel replied, ‘Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God as an offering! Now send some men to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. He is staying with Simon, a tanner who lives near the seashore.'”
Good morning fellow disciples.
This passage introduces the story of Cornelius, a Roman centurion known for his devotion to God and acts of kindness. Cornelius was not yet a believer in Jesus, but his genuine prayers and generosity had been noticed by God. In response, Cornelius receives a divine message to summon Peter, who would share the Gospel with him and his household.
This moment illustrates how God responds to a seeking heart and how He orchestrates His plan to bring salvation to all people. Cornelius’ obedience to the angel’s instructions sets the stage for one of the most pivotal moments in the early church—the inclusion of Gentiles into the family of God. For Peter, this encounter would challenge him to step outside of his cultural and religious boundaries, demonstrating that God’s love and salvation are for everyone.
It’s a reminder for all of us: God sees the sincerity of our hearts, hears our prayers, and calls us to take steps of obedience, even when we don’t fully understand His plan.
Simon Peter is central to this story because of the role he plays in bridging the gap between Jews and Gentiles. At this moment, Peter doesn’t yet know that he will be used to bring the Gospel to people outside of his cultural norms. But as the story unfolds, we see Peter faithfully obey the Spirit’s leading, even when it challenges his preconceived ideas.
Peter’s obedience empowers us to follow God’s leading, even when it takes us out of our comfort zones. His willingness to go to Cornelius’ house teaches us the importance of being open to God’s plans and seeing others through His eyes. Like Peter, we are called to step out in faith and share the love of Christ with everyone, regardless of background or differences.
Are there opportunities in your life where God is calling you to step out in faith and obedience? Maybe it’s reaching out to someone who is different from you, sharing the Gospel with a neighbor, or simply trusting Him in a situation you don’t fully understand. Like Cornelius and Peter, redirect your focus to listening for God’s voice and responding with obedience.
Spend time in prayer asking God to show you how He wants to use you in His plan. Be attentive to His leading, whether through His Word, a prompting in your heart, or a conversation with someone. Take one step of obedience today, trusting that God will guide you and use your faithfulness to accomplish His purpose.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the example of Peter and Cornelius, who both responded to Your call with obedience and faith. Help me to redirect my focus to Your voice and Your plans, even when they take me out of my comfort zone. Teach me to trust You completely and to walk in obedience, knowing that You are always working for Your glory and the good of others. Use me as an instrument of Your love and truth. I commit to following wherever You lead. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
