Acts 10:26

KJV

But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} Peter {G4074} took {G1453} him {G846} up {G1453}, saying {G3004}, Stand up {G450}; I {G2504} myself {G846} also {G2504} am {G1510} a man {G444}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But Kefa pulled him to his feet and said, “Stand up! I myself am just a man.”

Berean Standard Bible

But Peter helped him up. “Stand up,” he said, “I am only a man myself.”

American Standard Version

But Peter raised him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 10:26 captures a profound moment of humility and theological clarity as the Apostle Peter, upon entering the home of Cornelius, prevents the Roman centurion from worshipping him. Peter's immediate response, "Stand up; I myself also am a man," unequivocally redirects Cornelius's reverence away from himself and towards God alone, establishing a foundational principle of Christian worship and highlighting the shared humanity of all believers. This pivotal interaction underscores the universal accessibility of the Gospel and the rejection of any form of human deification within the nascent Christian movement.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the book of Acts, specifically within the narrative of Peter's groundbreaking visit to Cornelius's house in Caesarea, detailed in [Acts 10](/acts/10 "Acts 10 - Peter and Cornelius"). Prior to this, Peter has received a transformative vision of unclean animals, challenging his deeply ingrained Jewish dietary laws and, by extension, his understanding of who can be included in God's covenant people ([Acts 10:9-16](/acts/10-9-16 "Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's Vision of the Sheet")). Simultaneously, Cornelius, a devout Gentile, has received a divine instruction to send for Peter ([Acts 10:1-8](/acts/10-1-8 "Acts 10:1-8 - Cornelius's Vision")). Upon Peter's arrival, Cornelius, perhaps out of overwhelming reverence or a misunderstanding of Peter's spiritual authority, falls at his feet to worship him. Peter's immediate reaction in [Acts 10:26](/acts/10-26 "Acts 10:26 - Peter's Humility") directly precedes his powerful sermon to Cornelius's household, which culminates in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon Gentiles, marking a monumental shift in the early church's mission ([Acts 10:34-48](/acts/10-34-48 "Acts 10:34-48 - Peter's Sermon and Gentile Pentecost")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world of the first century, it was not uncommon for individuals, especially those of high status, spiritual authority, or perceived divine connection, to receive acts of prostration or homage that bordered on or constituted worship. Emperors were deified, and revered figures were often treated with extreme deference. For a Roman centurion like Cornelius, who was "a devout man and one who feared God with all his household" ([Acts 10:2](/acts/10-2 "Acts 10:2 - Cornelius's Piety")), his act of falling at Peter's feet might have been an expression of profound respect and awe for a messenger of the true God, perhaps even an attempt to honor him as a prophet or divine agent, a practice common in his cultural milieu. However, for a Jew, and especially for an apostle of Christ, such an act directed towards a human being was strictly forbidden, as worship was reserved for God alone, a principle deeply rooted in the [First Commandment](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - No Other Gods"). Peter's response, therefore, was not merely a polite refusal but a firm theological correction rooted in monotheistic conviction.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Acts and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it emphasizes the **exclusivity of worship for God alone**, a fundamental tenet of monotheism that sharply distinguishes Christian faith from pagan practices. Peter's humility serves as a model for all spiritual leaders, reinforcing that they are merely servants, not objects of veneration. Secondly, it highlights the **breaking down of barriers** between Jew and Gentile. Peter's declaration, "I myself also am a man," underscores his shared humanity with Cornelius, transcending the deeply entrenched social and religious divisions of the time. This prepares the way for the radical inclusivity of the Gospel, demonstrating that God shows no partiality ([Acts 10:34-35](/acts/10-34-35 "Acts 10:34-35 - God Shows No Partiality")). Finally, it foreshadows the **universal scope of the Great Commission**, as the Gospel is now unequivocally extended to all nations, beginning with Cornelius's household, a direct fulfillment of Jesus' command to be His witnesses "to the end of the earth" ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **took up (Greek, _egeírō'_):** This verb signifies to waken, rouse, or raise up. In this context, it describes Peter's immediate and decisive physical action of lifting Cornelius from his prostrate position. It conveys a sense of urgency and authority in Peter's refusal of worship, not merely a verbal protest but a physical intervention to correct Cornelius's posture of reverence.
* **Stand up (Greek, _anístēmi'_):** Derived from "ana" (up) and "histemi" (to stand), this imperative command means to rise up or stand upright. It is a direct and firm instruction from Peter to Cornelius, demanding a change in his physical posture which symbolized worship. This command immediately re-establishes the proper relationship between a human being and another human being, distinct from the posture of worship reserved for God.
* **man (Greek, _ánthrōpos'_):** This term refers to a human being, emphasizing mortality and finite nature, in contrast to the divine. Peter's use of "ánthrōpos" for himself is a crucial theological statement. It underscores his shared creatureliness with Cornelius, differentiating himself absolutely from God, who alone is worthy of worship. It serves as a powerful assertion of human humility before the divine.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But Peter took him up, saying,"**: This opening clause indicates Peter's immediate and active response to Cornelius's prostration. The conjunction "But" (G1161, _dé_) signals a contrast to Cornelius's action, highlighting Peter's decisive intervention. Peter does not hesitate or allow Cornelius to remain in a posture of worship; rather, he physically raises him, demonstrating a clear and unequivocal rejection of the honor being offered. This action is followed by Peter's verbal clarification, setting the stage for his theological statement.
* **"Stand up;"**: This is Peter's direct command, an imperative verb that leaves no room for misinterpretation. It is a call for Cornelius to rise from his position of worship, asserting Peter's authority as an apostle while simultaneously rejecting the worship directed at him. This command is both practical, in changing Cornelius's physical posture, and profoundly theological, in correcting his understanding of who is to be worshipped.
* **"I myself also am a man."**: This is the core theological declaration of the verse. By stating his shared humanity ("I myself also am a man"), Peter humbly but firmly distinguishes himself from God. The emphasis on "myself also" (G2504, _kagṓ_) reinforces his personal identification with the human condition, making it clear that he is no different from Cornelius in his fundamental nature as a created being. This statement serves as a powerful reminder that worship is reserved for the Creator alone, and no human, regardless of their spiritual gifting or authority, should ever receive it.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 10:26 employs several significant literary devices. **Contrast** is central, as Peter's humble refusal sharply contrasts with Cornelius's act of prostration, highlighting the difference between human reverence and divine worship. The **imperative mood** in "Stand up" conveys Peter's immediate and firm authority, not to receive worship, but to correct a theological error. **Understatement** is also present in Peter's simple declaration, "I myself also am a man." While seemingly straightforward, this statement carries immense theological weight, subtly yet powerfully refuting any notion of Peter's divinity or worthiness of worship. This **didactic statement** serves to teach Cornelius, and by extension, the reader, a fundamental truth about the nature of God and humanity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 10:26 serves as a powerful theological anchor, asserting the exclusive right of God to receive worship and demonstrating the essential humility of His servants. This principle is deeply embedded in the Judeo-Christian tradition, tracing back to the very first commandment, "You shall have no other gods before me" ([Exodus 20:3](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - The First Commandment")). Peter's immediate and unequivocal refusal of worship underscores the absolute distinction between the Creator and creation, a vital theological boundary. It also models true spiritual leadership, where the focus is always on directing praise and adoration to God, rather than drawing attention to oneself. This humility is a hallmark of genuine faith, recognizing that any spiritual power or authority flows from God alone. The verse also subtly reinforces the impartiality of God, who accepts all who fear Him and do what is right, regardless of their background, as Peter later articulates in [Acts 10:34-35](/acts/10-34-35 "Acts 10:34-35 - God's Impartiality").

* [Revelation 19:10](/revelation/19-10 "Revelation 19:10 - Angel Refuses Worship"): "And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy."
* [Matthew 4:10](/matthew/4-10 "Matthew 4:10 - Jesus Rejects Satan's Temptation"): "Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
* [Romans 1:25](/romans/1-25 "Romans 1:25 - Worshiping the Creature Rather Than the Creator"): "Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 10:26 offers timeless and profound lessons for believers today, particularly in an age where influence and charisma can easily lead to the idolization of human figures. Peter's humble refusal of worship serves as a crucial safeguard against the deification of spiritual leaders, celebrities, or even personal achievements. It reminds us that our ultimate devotion, adoration, and worship are reserved exclusively for the one true God, the Creator and Sustainer of all things. For those in positions of leadership, this verse is a powerful call to emulate Peter's humility, consistently deflecting praise from themselves and redirecting it to God. True spiritual authority is marked not by self-exaltation, but by a servant's heart that points others to Christ. Furthermore, Peter's simple declaration, "I myself also am a man," fosters a deep sense of shared humanity and equality among believers. It challenges us to dismantle any barriers of status, background, or perceived spiritual superiority, recognizing that before God, we are all equally human, equally in need of grace, and equally called to worship Him alone. This perspective promotes unity, humility, and a healthy understanding of our place in God's grand design.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be tempted to give undue reverence or "worship" to human leaders, whether in the church or in society?**
* **How does Peter's immediate and unequivocal response challenge my own understanding of humility, especially if I am in a position of influence?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure that my worship and devotion are directed solely towards God, and not subtly diverted to created things or people?**

### FAQ
**Why did Cornelius fall at Peter's feet to worship him?**
Answer: Cornelius, being a Gentile, likely came from a culture where prostration before revered figures, rulers, or divine messengers was a common sign of profound respect, awe, or even worship. While he was a "devout man who feared God" ([Acts 10:2](/acts/10-2 "Acts 10:2 - Cornelius's Piety")), his understanding of the specific boundaries of worship within Jewish monotheism might have been incomplete. His act was likely an overwhelming expression of reverence for Peter as God's chosen messenger, perhaps bordering on the kind of homage given to deities or demigods in his pagan background. Peter's response clarified that such an act, when directed towards a human, was inappropriate for a follower of the one true God.

**Is it ever appropriate to show extreme reverence to spiritual leaders?**
Answer: While respect, honor, and obedience are due to spiritual leaders who faithfully teach God's Word and shepherd His flock ([Hebrews 13:7](/hebrews/13-7 "Hebrews 13:7 - Obey Your Leaders"), [1 Timothy 5:17](/1_timothy/5-17 "1 Timothy 5:17 - Honoring Elders")), Acts 10:26 clearly demonstrates that any act that constitutes or borders on worship is strictly forbidden. Peter's rejection of Cornelius's prostration underscores that worship is reserved for God alone. Leaders are "fellowservants" ([Revelation 19:10](/revelation/19-10 "Revelation 19:10 - Angel Refuses Worship")) and should always point people to Christ, not to themselves.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 10:26, with Peter's humble declaration "I myself also am a man," profoundly points to Christ in several ways. Firstly, Peter's refusal of worship highlights the unique and singular deity of Jesus Christ. While Peter, a mere man, rejects worship, Jesus consistently receives it throughout the Gospels without rebuke, affirming His divine nature (e.g., [Matthew 14:33](/matthew/14-33 "Matthew 14:33 - Disciples Worship Jesus"), [John 9:38](/john/9-38 "John 9:38 - Blind Man Worships Jesus")). This contrast underscores that only Christ, being both fully God and fully man, is worthy of such adoration. Secondly, Peter's emphasis on shared humanity ("I myself also am a man") foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through the Incarnation. Jesus, the Son of God, fully embraced humanity, becoming "like his brothers in every respect" ([Hebrews 2:17](/hebrews/2-17 "Hebrews 2:17 - Jesus Became Like His Brothers")), yet without sin. This shared humanity, exemplified by Peter, finds its perfect and sinless expression in Christ, who bridges the gap between God and humanity. Finally, Peter's actions pave the way for the universal spread of the Gospel, demonstrating that salvation through Christ is not limited by ethnic or social distinctions, but is available to all who believe, Jew and Gentile alike, fulfilling the promise that in Christ, "there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ")). Thus, Peter's humility and theological clarity in Acts 10:26 ultimately serve to magnify the unique person and work of Jesus Christ, the only one worthy of all worship and the Savior of all humanity.

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

Revelation 19:10

And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See [thou do it] not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

Revelation 22:8

And I John saw these things, and heard [them]. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things.

Revelation 22:9

Then saith he unto me, See [thou do it] not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.

Acts 14:14

[Which] when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard [of], they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,

Acts 14:15

And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:

Isaiah 42:8

I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

Matthew 4:10

Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.