Acts 10:22

KJV

And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} they said {G2036}, Cornelius {G2883} the centurion {G1543}, a just {G1342} man {G435}, and {G2532} one that feareth {G5399} God {G2316}, and {G5037} of good report {G3140} among {G5259} all {G3650} the nation {G1484} of the Jews {G2453}, was warned from God {G5537} by {G5259} an holy {G40} angel {G32} to send {G3343} for thee {G4571} into {G1519} his {G846} house {G3624}, and {G2532} to hear {G191} words {G4487} of {G3844} thee {G4675}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They answered, “Cornelius. He’s a Roman army officer, an upright man and a God-fearer, a man highly regarded by the whole Jewish nation; and he was told by a holy angel to have you come to his house and listen to what you have to say.”

Berean Standard Bible

“Cornelius the centurion has sent us,” they said. “He is a righteous and God-fearing man with a good reputation among the whole Jewish nation. A holy angel instructed him to request your presence in his home so he could hear a message from you.”

American Standard Version

And they said, Cornelius a centurion, a righteous man and one that feareth God, and well reported of by all the nation of the Jews, was warned of God by a holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words from thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 10:22 presents the pivotal message delivered by Cornelius's messengers to Peter in Joppa, detailing the Roman centurion's exemplary character and the divine directive for Peter to visit his household. This verse underscores Cornelius's reputation as a righteous and God-fearing Gentile, widely respected by the Jewish community, and highlights the supernatural orchestration of the encounter by a holy angel, setting the stage for the groundbreaking expansion of the Gospel to the Gentiles.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 10:22 is embedded within a crucial narrative pivot in the Book of Acts, marking the initial breakthrough of the Gospel beyond its Jewish origins to the Gentiles. The preceding verses (Acts 10:1-8) introduce Cornelius, his piety, and his angelic vision instructing him to send for Peter. Concurrently, Peter receives a transformative vision in Joppa (Acts 10:9-16) that challenges his deeply ingrained Jewish dietary and social customs, preparing him to associate with Gentiles. Verse 22 serves as the direct report from Cornelius's men to Peter, confirming the divine impetus for their summons and providing a detailed character sketch of Cornelius that would have resonated with Peter, despite his initial reservations about entering a Gentile home, as later articulated in [Acts 10:28](/acts/10-28 "Acts 10:28 - Peter's Understanding of Jewish Law"). This verse acts as the bridge, linking the separate divine preparations of Cornelius and Peter, compelling Peter to comply with the angelic command.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Caesarea Maritima, a major Roman port city and the administrative capital of Judea, heavily populated by Gentiles. Cornelius, as a Roman centurion, held a position of authority within the occupying Roman military, making his piety particularly noteworthy. The description of him as "one that feareth God" (Greek: _phoboumenon ton Theon_) identifies him with a recognized group of Gentiles who, while not fully converting to Judaism (e.g., through circumcision), adhered to monotheism, observed certain Jewish ethical standards, and often attended synagogue services. These "God-fearers" were distinct from pagan idolaters and often served as a bridge between the Jewish community and the broader Gentile world, providing a receptive audience for the early Christian message. For Peter, a devout Jew, the cultural barrier of entering a Gentile's house and sharing a meal was immense, as Jewish purity laws strictly forbade such close association with non-Jews. The divine intervention described in this verse was therefore essential to overcome these deeply entrenched cultural and religious norms, paving the way for a revolutionary shift in the early church's mission.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Acts. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Orchestration**, emphasizing that the encounter between Peter and Cornelius was not coincidental but meticulously planned by God. Both Cornelius's vision in [Acts 10:3-6](/acts/10-3-6 "Acts 10:3-6 - Cornelius's Angelic Vision") and Peter's vision in [Acts 10:9-16](/acts/10-9-16 "Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's Vision on the Rooftop") underscore God's active hand in guiding the spread of the Gospel. Secondly, Cornelius's detailed characterization highlights the theme of **God's Favor on the Righteous and Seeking Heart**, regardless of ethnic or religious background. His reputation as "a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews" demonstrates that God sees and responds to genuine piety, even outside the covenant community of Israel. Finally, the instruction for Peter "to hear words of thee" emphasizes the **Primacy of the Proclaimed Word** in salvation, foreshadowing Peter's sermon in [Acts 10:34-43](/acts/10-34-43 "Acts 10:34-43 - Peter's Sermon to Cornelius's Household"), which culminates in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles, a clear demonstration of [God's Impartiality](/acts/10-34-35 "Acts 10:34-35 - God Shows No Partiality").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **centurion (Greek, _hekatontárchēs'_):** From G1543, meaning "the captain of one hundred men." This term immediately identifies Cornelius as a Roman military officer, placing him squarely within the Gentile world and the apparatus of Roman authority. His position highlights the significant social and cultural chasm that Peter, a Jewish apostle, would have to cross to enter his home. The fact that a Roman centurion, a symbol of foreign occupation, is also described as a "just man" and "one that feareth God" is a remarkable testament to his character and the universality of God's grace.
* **just (Greek, _díkaios'_):** From G1342, meaning "equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy." This descriptor emphasizes Cornelius's moral uprightness and integrity. It suggests that his piety was not merely outward observance but deeply rooted in his character, manifesting in righteous conduct. This attribute would have made him a credible and respected figure, even among the Jewish community, as attested by the phrase "of good report among all the nation of the Jews." His justice likely included fair dealings and compassionate actions, aligning with the ethical demands of the God he feared.
* **feareth God (Greek, _phobéō'_ / _theós'_):** G5399 (_phobéō_) means "to be in awe of, i.e. revere," and G2316 (_theós_) means "a deity, especially the supreme Divinity." Combined, "one that feareth God" (Greek: _phoboumenon ton Theon_) is a technical term for Gentiles who revered the God of Israel, adhering to monotheism and certain Jewish moral precepts without undergoing full conversion to Judaism. This status was significant because these individuals were often more open to the Gospel than either staunch Jews or pagan Gentiles, serving as a vital bridge for the early Christian mission. Cornelius's "God-fearing" status indicates a sincere, pre-existing spiritual hunger and devotion that God recognized and honored.
* **warned from God (Greek, _chrēmatízō'_):** From G5537, meaning "to utter an oracle... divinely intimate; by implication... bear as a title." In this context, it signifies a divine communication or admonition. The passive voice ("was warned from God") emphasizes that the initiative came from God, not Cornelius. This divine warning, delivered "by an holy angel," underscores the supernatural and authoritative nature of the command for Cornelius to send for Peter. It removes any doubt about the legitimacy of the summons, making it clear that this was a divinely orchestrated event with immense theological implications for the inclusion of Gentiles.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they said, Cornelius the centurion,"**: This opening establishes the speakers as Cornelius's messengers and immediately identifies the subject. The title "centurion" (G1543, _hekatontárchēs_) instantly communicates his Roman military rank and Gentile identity, setting the stage for the groundbreaking nature of the encounter.
* **"a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews,"**: This clause provides a comprehensive and highly positive characterization of Cornelius. He is described as "just" (G1342, _díkaios_), indicating his moral uprightness. His status as "one that feareth God" (G5399, _phobéō_ / G2316, _theós_) identifies him as a Gentile who worshipped the God of Israel, setting him apart from pagan idolaters. Crucially, his "good report" (G3140, _martyréō_) "among all the nation of the Jews" (G1484, _éthnos_ / G2453, _Ioudaîos_) highlights his widespread respect and credibility, even within the Jewish community, which would have been a significant factor in Peter's eventual willingness to engage with him.
* **"was warned from God by an holy angel"**: This segment reveals the divine origin and supernatural nature of the summons. The phrase "warned from God" (G5537, _chrēmatízō_) signifies a direct, authoritative divine communication, not a mere suggestion or human idea. The agency of "an holy angel" (G40, _hágios_ / G32, _ángelos_) further emphasizes the sanctity and divine authority behind the instruction, confirming that this was a heavenly mandate.
* **"to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee."**: This final clause specifies the angel's instruction. Cornelius was commanded "to send for thee" (G3343, _metapémpō_) – referring to Peter – "into his house" (G1519, _eis_ / G3624, _oîkos_), which was a significant step for Peter due to Jewish purity laws. The ultimate purpose of this summons is "to hear words of thee" (G191, _akoúō_ / G4487, _rhēma_), underscoring the centrality of the spoken Gospel message in God's plan for salvation and the inclusion of Gentiles.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound significance. **Characterization** is prominent, as Cornelius is meticulously described through a series of positive attributes: "a just man," "one that feareth God," and "of good report among all the nation of the Jews." This detailed portrayal elevates his standing and makes his divine encounter more compelling. **Divine Intervention** is explicitly stated through the phrase "warned from God by an holy angel," emphasizing the supernatural agency behind the events and God's direct involvement in the unfolding narrative. This highlights the miraculous nature of the Gospel's expansion. Furthermore, the verse uses **Foreshadowing**, as the instruction for Peter "to hear words of thee" anticipates Peter's sermon in Cornelius's house, which will lead to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles, a pivotal moment for the universal mission of the church. The careful crafting of Cornelius's reputation also serves as **Ethos**, building credibility for the subsequent narrative of Gentile inclusion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 10:22 stands as a foundational text for understanding God's universal redemptive plan, revealing His active pursuit of all humanity, irrespective of ethnic or religious background. Cornelius's character, marked by justice, God-fearing piety, and a good reputation even among Jews, demonstrates that God sees and honors sincere devotion and a seeking heart. This verse underscores the divine initiative in salvation, as God Himself orchestrates the meeting between Peter and Cornelius through angelic intervention. It challenges the early church's ethnocentric biases and paves the way for the radical truth that God shows no partiality, extending His grace and the gift of the Holy Spirit to Gentiles. The emphasis on "hearing words" from Peter highlights the indispensable role of the preached Gospel as the means by which God brings salvation.

* [Acts 10:34-35](/acts/10-34-35 "Acts 10:34-35 - Peter's Declaration of God's Impartiality")
* [Romans 2:10-11](/romans/2-10-11 "Romans 2:10-11 - God's Impartiality in Judgment")
* [Ephesians 2:11-18](/ephesians/2-11-18 "Ephesians 2:11-18 - Gentiles Brought Near Through Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 10:22 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. Cornelius's story reminds us that God is actively at work in the lives of individuals, often preparing hearts long before they explicitly hear the Gospel. His reputation as "a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report" underscores the power of a life lived with integrity and genuine piety, even when one's full understanding of Christ is not yet complete. Such a life can serve as a powerful testimony, creating open doors for the Gospel message. This verse challenges us to look beyond our own cultural, social, or religious boundaries and recognize that God's grace extends to all people. It calls us to be ready, like Peter, to step out of our comfort zones and engage with those God is preparing, trusting that He will guide us to those who are seeking. Ultimately, it reinforces the truth that God desires all to hear the "words" of salvation, compelling us to be faithful messengers of His truth to a diverse world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Cornelius's character challenge my assumptions about who God might be working in today?**
* **In what ways might God be preparing "Corneliuses" in my own sphere of influence, and how can I be more attentive to His leading?**
* **What cultural or personal barriers might I need to overcome to effectively share the Gospel with people from different backgrounds?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean that Cornelius was "one that feareth God"?**

Answer: The phrase "one that feareth God" (Greek: _phoboumenon ton Theon_) was a specific designation in the Greco-Roman world for Gentiles who, while not fully converting to Judaism (which would typically involve circumcision for men, adherence to all Mosaic laws, etc.), had abandoned pagan polytheism and worshipped the God of Israel. They were drawn to Jewish monotheism, ethical standards, and often attended synagogue services. Cornelius exemplifies this group: he was devout, prayed regularly, and gave generously to the poor ([Acts 10:2](/acts/10-2 "Acts 10:2 - Cornelius's Piety")). These "God-fearers" were often a receptive audience for the early Christian message, acting as a bridge between the Jewish and pagan worlds, as they already had a foundational understanding of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 10:22, by introducing Cornelius as a Gentile prepared by God to hear the Gospel, profoundly foreshadows the universal scope of Christ's redemptive work. The "words" Peter is summoned to speak are not merely human wisdom but the life-giving message of Jesus Christ, His death, resurrection, and the salvation He offers to all who believe. This event directly fulfills the prophetic trajectory of the Old Testament, where God's covenant with Abraham promised that "all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - Abrahamic Covenant")). Jesus Himself commissioned His disciples to make disciples of "all nations" ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission")), and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost ([Acts 2:1-4](/acts/2-1-4 "Acts 2:1-4 - The Day of Pentecost")) was a foretaste of this global reach. Cornelius's conversion, initiated by divine warning and facilitated by Peter's obedience, demonstrates that Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross broke down the "dividing wall of hostility" between Jew and Gentile ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Breaks Down the Dividing Wall")), creating "one new humanity" ([Ephesians 2:15](/ephesians/2-15 "Ephesians 2:15 - One New Humanity in Christ")) in Him. Thus, Cornelius's story is a powerful testament to Christ's all-encompassing lordship and His desire to gather people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation into His kingdom, echoing the vision of the redeemed multitude in [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation").

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 11:14

Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.

Acts 10:2

[A] devout [man], and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.

Hebrews 10:38

Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

John 13:20

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.

John 5:24

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

Luke 7:4

And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this:

Luke 7:5

For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.