Acts 10:18

KJV

And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} called {G5455}, and asked {G4441} whether {G1487} Simon {G4613}, which {G3588} was surnamed {G1941} Peter {G4074}, were lodged {G3579} there {G1759}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and called out to ask if the Shim‘on known as Kefa was staying there.

Berean Standard Bible

They called out to ask if Simon called Peter was staying there.

American Standard Version

and called and asked whether Simon, who was surnamed Peter, were lodging there.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 10:18 succinctly describes the arrival of Cornelius's envoys at the house of Simon the tanner in Joppa, where they inquire about the whereabouts of Simon, who is also known as Peter. This seemingly simple action marks a pivotal moment in the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan, as it sets the stage for the convergence of two divinely orchestrated encounters—Cornelius's vision and Peter's vision—leading to the groundbreaking inclusion of Gentiles into the early Christian community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 10:18 is nestled within a highly significant narrative sequence in the book of Acts, immediately following two parallel divine revelations. Prior to this verse, Cornelius, a devout Roman centurion in Caesarea, receives an angelic visitation instructing him to send for Simon Peter, who is residing in Joppa at the house of Simon the tanner ([Acts 10:3-8](/acts/10-3-8 "Cornelius's Vision and Instructions")). Simultaneously, Peter, on the rooftop in Joppa, experiences a profound vision of a great sheet descending, filled with all kinds of animals, with a divine command to "kill and eat" what was considered unclean, a vision repeated three times ([Acts 10:9-16](/acts/10-9-16 "Peter's Vision of the Unclean Animals")). The arrival of Cornelius's men in Acts 10:17-18, precisely as Peter is pondering the meaning of his vision, underscores the divine synchronization and the immediate practical outworking of God's revealed will. This moment is the critical juncture where the divine command meets human obedience, propelling the narrative towards the expansion of the gospel beyond its Jewish origins.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting of Acts 10 is crucial for understanding the profound implications of this encounter. Caesarea was a Roman administrative center, a cosmopolitan city with a significant Gentile population, while Joppa was a coastal Jewish town. The very idea of a devout Jew like Peter lodging with a tanner, whose trade involved handling dead animals, was already a significant departure from strict Jewish purity laws, as such contact rendered one ritually unclean ([Numbers 19:11-13](/numbers/19-11-13 "Laws of Ritual Impurity")). Furthermore, for Jews to enter a Gentile's house or associate closely with Gentiles was considered defiling ([Acts 10:28](/acts/10-28 "Peter's Explanation of Jewish Customs")). Cornelius, as a Roman centurion, represented the Gentile world, specifically the Roman military occupation, which was often viewed with disdain by Jews. The meticulous details of the messengers' journey—from Caesarea to Joppa, a distance of about 30-35 miles, taking roughly a day—emphasize the intentionality and effort involved in bridging these significant cultural and religious divides, all under divine impetus.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 10:18 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Acts and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Orchestration and Sovereignty**, where God meticulously arranges circumstances and guides individuals—both Jew and Gentile—to fulfill His redemptive purposes. The precise timing of the messengers' arrival with Peter's vision is a clear testament to God's active hand. Another crucial theme is the **Breaking of Barriers and Inclusion**, particularly the dismantling of the long-standing religious and social distinctions between Jews and Gentiles. This event is a foundational step towards the universal offer of salvation, demonstrating that God shows no partiality ([Acts 10:34-35](/acts/10-34-35 "God Shows No Partiality")). It highlights the **Expansion of the Gospel**, moving beyond Jerusalem and Judea to Samaria and the "ends of the earth," a mandate given by Jesus in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "The Great Commission"). Finally, the verse subtly underscores the theme of **Obedience to Divine Instruction**, as both Cornelius's men and Peter are responding to direct commands from God, even when those commands challenge deeply ingrained traditions and prejudices.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **asked (Greek, _pynthánomai'_):** This verb (G4441) signifies an inquiry made to ascertain information, to learn by casual intelligence, or to question. It differs from other Greek words for asking in that it implies seeking information rather than making a request, a demand, or a search for something hidden. In this context, Cornelius's men are not demanding Peter's presence but are carefully and precisely inquiring about his lodging, confirming the details given to Cornelius by the angel. Their question is direct and purposeful, seeking to verify the divine instructions.
* **surnamed (Greek, _epikaléomai'_):** This middle voice verb (G1941) means "to entitle" or "to call upon." Here, it refers to Peter's well-known appellation. The inclusion of "which was surnamed Peter" (G1941 G4074) is not merely descriptive but serves to confirm the identity of Simon. The name "Peter" (Greek: _Petros_), meaning "rock," was bestowed upon Simon by Jesus Himself ([John 1:42](/john/1-42 "Jesus Gives Simon the Name Cephas/Peter")), signifying his foundational role in the early church. This detailed identification ensures that the messengers have indeed found the correct individual, validating the divine guidance provided to Cornelius.
* **lodged (Greek, _xenízō'_):** This verb (G3579) means "to be a host" or, in the passive voice as here, "to be a guest" or "to lodge." It also carries the connotation of being or appearing "strange," as it derives from the word for "stranger" or "foreigner" (ξένος, _xenos_). The fact that Peter, a prominent Jewish apostle, was lodging in the house of Simon the tanner ([Acts 9:43](/acts/9-43 "Peter Stays with Simon the Tanner")) was already unconventional, as a tanner's trade involved contact with dead animals, making him ritually unclean according to Jewish law. This detail subtly foreshadows the even greater breaking of social and religious norms that is about to occur with Peter's interaction with Gentiles.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And called,"**: This initial phrase indicates the action taken by Cornelius's men upon arriving at Simon the tanner's house. The Greek word (G5455, _phōnéō_) simply means to emit a sound, to call out, or to address. It suggests they announced their presence, perhaps by knocking or shouting, seeking attention from within the house. This is a practical, human action initiating the divine encounter.
* **"and asked whether Simon,"**: Following their initial call, the men proceeded to make a specific inquiry. The conjunction "and" (G2532, _kai_) links the two actions, indicating a direct sequence. Their question was precise, seeking to confirm the presence of a specific individual named Simon. The Greek particle "whether" (G1487, _ei_) introduces a direct question, indicating their intent to verify information.
* **"which was surnamed Peter,"**: This clause provides crucial identifying information. It clarifies which Simon they are seeking, distinguishing him from any other person named Simon who might be present. The use of "surnamed Peter" emphasizes the apostle's unique identity and the significance of the name given to him by Jesus, confirming that the men are looking for the very individual God intended them to find.
* **"were lodged there."**: This final clause completes the inquiry, specifying the purpose of their call and question. They are not merely asking if Simon Peter is *in* the house but if he is *lodging* there, indicating a more permanent or extended stay. The adverb "there" (G1759, _entháde_) points to the specific location where they have arrived, the house of Simon the tanner. This detail confirms the accuracy of the angelic instructions given to Cornelius and sets the stage for Peter's encounter with them.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 10:18, though brief, employs several subtle but effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Narrative Juxtaposition**, as the arrival of Cornelius's men is perfectly timed with Peter's perplexing vision, creating a powerful sense of divine orchestration. This immediate follow-up to Peter's vision highlights God's active hand in bringing His plan to fruition. There is also an element of **Dramatic Irony**, as the reader is aware of the full significance of Peter's vision and Cornelius's angelic encounter, while Peter and the messengers are still in the process of understanding God's broader purpose. The phrase "Simon, which was surnamed Peter" functions as a form of **Identification and Confirmation**, ensuring the reader (and the messengers) that the correct individual is being sought, a detail that underscores the precision of divine guidance. Finally, the mention of Peter "lodged there" (at a tanner's house) serves as **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at Peter's growing willingness to transcend traditional Jewish purity laws, which will be fully realized in his subsequent interaction with the Gentiles.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 10:18 serves as the critical point of convergence for the divine plans revealed to Cornelius and Peter, initiating the practical outworking of God's universal redemptive purpose. Theologically, it underscores God's meticulous sovereignty in orchestrating human events to achieve His will, particularly in breaking down the long-standing ethnic and religious barriers between Jews and Gentiles. This moment is foundational to understanding the expansion of the gospel beyond its initial Jewish confines, demonstrating that salvation is offered to all who believe, regardless of their background. It highlights the principle that God is impartial and desires all people to come to repentance and knowledge of the truth.

* [Acts 11:18](/acts/11-18 "God Grants Repentance to Gentiles") – Upon hearing Peter's account, the apostles and believers in Jerusalem glorified God, acknowledging that "then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life."
* [Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ Breaks Down the Dividing Wall") – Paul articulates that Christ "is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us... for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace."
* [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "No Jew or Gentile in Christ") – Paul declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 10:18, though a simple verse describing an inquiry, carries profound implications for our walk of faith today. It powerfully reminds us that God is actively at work, orchestrating circumstances and guiding individuals to fulfill His purposes, often in ways that challenge our preconceived notions and comfort zones. Just as Cornelius's men diligently sought Peter, and Peter was prepared by God to receive them, we are called to be attentive to God's leading, even when it directs us to unfamiliar or uncomfortable territory. This narrative challenges us to examine our own biases and prejudices, whether cultural, social, or spiritual, and to be open to God working through people and in situations we might initially dismiss. It teaches us about the importance of divine timing and the beauty of God's perfect plan unfolding through seemingly ordinary human actions. Our willingness to step out in faith, to seek God's messengers, and to embrace those whom God is drawing, regardless of their background, is crucial for the continued expansion of His Kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might God be orchestrating events that I am not yet fully aware of or understanding?**
* **What cultural or social barriers might I unknowingly be holding that prevent me from fully embracing God's diverse family?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sensitivity to divine timing and be more responsive to God's leading, even when it challenges my comfort zone?**
* **Who are the "Cornelius's" or "Peters" in my life—individuals God might be using to bridge gaps or reveal new truths?**

### FAQ

**Why is it significant that Peter was "lodged there" at Simon the tanner's house?**

Answer: The significance lies in the cultural and religious context of the time. Tanners worked with dead animal hides, a profession that rendered them ritually unclean according to strict Jewish law. For a devout Jew like Peter, an apostle, to lodge with a tanner was already a step outside conventional Jewish purity practices ([Acts 9:43](/acts/9-43 "Peter Stays with Simon the Tanner")). This detail subtly prepares the reader for Peter's even greater transgression of Jewish social norms when he enters the house of Cornelius, a Gentile, which was considered defiling for a Jew ([Acts 10:28](/acts/10-28 "Peter's Explanation of Jewish Customs")). It highlights Peter's growing openness to God's leading, which was already challenging his traditional understanding of purity and separation.

**What does this verse contribute to the overall narrative of Acts?**

Answer: Acts 10:18 is a pivotal verse because it represents the physical convergence of two divinely orchestrated events: Cornelius's angelic vision and Peter's sheet vision. It marks the moment when God's plan for the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian community begins to unfold in a tangible way. The arrival of Cornelius's men at Peter's lodging is the direct catalyst for Peter's journey to Caesarea, where he will preach the gospel to Cornelius and his household, leading to their conversion and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Gentiles ([Acts 10:44-48](/acts/10-44-48 "The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles")). This event is a foundational step in demonstrating that the gospel is for all nations, fulfilling the Great Commission given by Jesus in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "The Great Commission").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 10:18, though seemingly a minor detail of inquiry, points powerfully to the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The breaking down of the wall between Jew and Gentile, initiated in this chapter, is the very essence of Christ's reconciling work on the cross. Jesus, through His death and resurrection, abolished the law of commandments contained in ordinances, creating "one new man" out of two, thereby making peace ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ Breaks Down the Dividing Wall")). Peter's vision and subsequent obedience to enter a Gentile home directly reflects the universal scope of the gospel that Jesus inaugurated. The "Simon, which was surnamed Peter" who is sought out in this verse is the same Peter whom Jesus commissioned to "feed my sheep" ([John 21:17](/john/21-17 "Jesus Restores Peter and Commissions Him")), a commission that now clearly extends beyond the boundaries of Israel. This moment in Acts 10 anticipates the fulfillment of the Great Commission, where disciples are to be made of "all nations" ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "The Great Commission")), demonstrating that in Christ, there is "neither Jew nor Greek" ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "No Jew or Gentile in Christ")). The meticulous divine orchestration leading to this inquiry underscores that the inclusion of the Gentiles was not an afterthought but a central part of God's eternal purpose, realized through the atoning work of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 11:11

And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.

Acts 10:5

And now send men to Joppa, and call for [one] Simon, whose surname is Peter:

Acts 10:6

He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.