Acts 10:34

KJV

¶ Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} Peter {G4074} opened {G455} his mouth {G4750}, and said {G2036}, Of {G1909} a truth {G225} I perceive {G2638} that {G3754} God {G2316} is {G2076} no {G3756} respecter of persons {G4381}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Then Kefa addressed them: “I now understand that God does not play favorites,

Berean Standard Bible

Then Peter began to speak: “I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism,

American Standard Version

And Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 10:34 captures a watershed moment in early Christian history, as the Apostle Peter, enlightened by divine revelation, articulates a profound theological truth: God is utterly impartial. This declaration, made in the home of the Gentile centurion Cornelius, signifies a radical shift in the early church's understanding of God's redemptive plan, affirming that His grace and salvation are extended to all humanity, irrespective of ethnic, social, or religious background.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the powerful opening statement of Peter's sermon to Cornelius's household, immediately following a series of divinely orchestrated events designed to dismantle Peter's deeply ingrained Jewish prejudices. The preceding narrative in [Acts 10](/acts/10 "Acts 10 - Peter and Cornelius") meticulously details Cornelius's vision ( [Acts 10:1-8](/acts/10-1-8 "Acts 10:1-8 - Cornelius's Vision") ) and Peter's transformative vision of the sheet containing clean and unclean animals ( [Acts 10:9-16](/acts/10-9-16 "Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's Vision") ). The arrival of Cornelius's messengers precisely when Peter was pondering the vision's meaning ( [Acts 10:17-23](/acts/10-17-23 "Acts 10:17-23 - The Messengers Arrive") ) and the Spirit's direct instruction to accompany them ( [Acts 10:19-20](/acts/10-19-20 "Acts 10:19-20 - The Spirit's Instruction") ) culminate in Peter's arrival at Cornelius's house. His initial words upon entering, "Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean" ( [Acts 10:28](/acts/10-28 "Acts 10:28 - Peter's Realization") ), set the stage for the profound theological insight of verse 34, which then undergirds his entire sermon on Jesus Christ.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Jewish society, particularly in Judea, was characterized by a strong sense of ethnic and religious distinctiveness. The Mosaic Law, including dietary restrictions and purity laws, served to separate Israel from the surrounding Gentile nations. Jews generally avoided close association, especially eating, with Gentiles, whom they considered ritually unclean. This cultural norm was deeply embedded in their identity as God's chosen people. Peter, as a devout Jew and an apostle to the circumcised, naturally adhered to these customs. The Roman Empire, while diverse, also had its own social hierarchies and ethnic tensions. Cornelius, a Roman centurion, represented the Gentile world, yet he was a "devout man, and one that feared God with all his house" ( [Acts 10:2](/acts/10-2 "Acts 10:2 - Cornelius's Piety") ), indicating a Gentile who had embraced aspects of Jewish monotheism without full conversion. The encounter between Peter and Cornelius thus represents a clash and convergence of these distinct cultural and religious worlds, orchestrated by God to break down long-standing barriers.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 10:34 is a pivotal expression of several overarching themes within the book of Acts and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the **Universal Scope of the Gospel**, demonstrating that God's redemptive plan is not confined to one ethnic group but extends to all nations, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - Light to the Gentiles") ). This verse also powerfully illustrates **God's Impartiality and Sovereignty**, revealing His active intervention to guide His apostles beyond their preconceived notions and prejudices. It underscores that salvation is by grace through faith, accessible to all who fear Him and work righteousness, regardless of their background ( [Acts 10:35](/acts/10-35 "Acts 10:35 - God Accepts All Who Fear Him") ). Finally, it highlights the **Breaking Down of Barriers** between Jew and Gentile, a foundational theological truth that would be further expounded by Paul in his epistles (e.g., [Ephesians 2:14-18](/ephesians/2-14-18 "Ephesians 2:14-18 - Christ Our Peace") ), leading to the formation of a unified body of Christ composed of believers from every tongue, tribe, and nation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **perceive (Greek, _katalambánō_):** From G2638, meaning "to take eagerly, i.e. seize, possess, etc. (literally or figuratively):--apprehend, attain, come upon, comprehend, find, obtain, perceive, (over-)take." Peter's use of this word signifies not merely a casual observation but a profound, Spirit-led comprehension or apprehension of a truth that had previously eluded him. It suggests a sudden, deep understanding that "seized" his mind, transforming his perspective.
* **truth (Greek, _alḗtheia_):** From G225, meaning "truth:--true, X truly, truth, verity." This word denotes reality, sincerity, and faithfulness. When Peter says "Of a truth," he is affirming the absolute veracity and undeniable nature of the principle he is about to declare. It is a fundamental, unchangeable aspect of God's character, now fully revealed to him.
* **respecter of persons (Greek, _prosōpolḗptēs_):** From G4381, meaning "an accepter of a face (individual), i.e. (specially), one exhibiting partiality:--respecter of persons." This compound word literally describes someone who "receives a face" or judges based on outward appearance, status, or identity rather than intrinsic merit or character. It encapsulates the concept of favoritism, prejudice, or partiality. Peter's declaration that God is "no respecter of persons" directly refutes any notion that God shows favoritism based on external human distinctions like ethnicity, social standing, or religious background.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Peter opened his mouth, and said,"**: This phrase, "opened his mouth," is a common biblical idiom (G455 _anoígō_ and G4750 _stóma_) signifying the commencement of a solemn, important, or authoritative discourse. It indicates that Peter is about to deliver a message of significant theological weight, not just casual conversation. The preceding events have prepared him for this moment, and his words carry the weight of divine revelation.
* **"Of a truth I perceive that"**: Peter's emphatic declaration "Of a truth" (G1909 _epí_ and G225 _alḗtheia_) underscores the absolute certainty and divine origin of his realization. The verb "perceive" (G2638 _katalambánō_) indicates a deep, experiential understanding that has dawned upon him, not merely an intellectual assent. This is the culmination of his vision, the Spirit's guidance, and his encounter with Cornelius, leading to an undeniable conviction about God's nature.
* **"God is no respecter of persons:"**: This is the core theological statement of the verse. The Greek term (G4381 _prosōpolḗptēs_) directly translates to "one who shows partiality" or "one who judges by appearance." By stating that God is "no respecter of persons" (G2316 _theós_ is G2076 _estí_ no G3756 _ou_ respecter of persons G4381 _prosōpolḗptēs_), Peter asserts God's absolute impartiality. God does not favor one individual or group over another based on external criteria such as race, nationality, social status, wealth, or religious heritage. His judgment, grace, and acceptance are based on righteousness and faith, accessible to all who respond to Him.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Idiom** with the phrase "opened his mouth," signaling a formal and significant pronouncement. Peter's statement is a profound **Theological Declaration**, articulating a fundamental attribute of God's character that challenges the prevailing human and even his own prior understanding. The phrase "no respecter of persons" is a powerful **Antithesis** to human tendencies toward prejudice and favoritism, highlighting God's perfect justice and equity. This declaration also functions as a **Climax** in the narrative arc of Peter's transformation, representing the moment his personal prejudices are fully overcome by divine truth, paving the way for the universal mission of the church.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 10:34 stands as a cornerstone for understanding God's impartial nature, a truth that transcends the Old Covenant's particularistic focus on Israel and fully blossoms in the New Covenant's universal invitation. This divine impartiality means that God's love, justice, and offer of salvation are not contingent on human distinctions or achievements, but are freely extended to all who respond in faith and obedience. It dismantles any notion of ethnic, social, or religious exclusivity in God's eyes, establishing a level playing field for humanity before Him. This profound truth forms the basis for the church's global mission, compelling believers to share the gospel without prejudice or reservation, knowing that God welcomes all who come to Him through Christ.

* [Deuteronomy 10:17](/deuteronomy/10-17 "Deuteronomy 10:17 - God Shows No Partiality")
* [Romans 2:11](/romans/2-11 "Romans 2:11 - No Partiality with God")
* [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - One in Christ Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Peter's realization in Acts 10:34 is a transformative truth that calls believers today to a radical re-evaluation of their own biases and prejudices. If God shows no favoritism, then neither should His followers. This means actively dismantling any walls of division—whether based on race, socioeconomic status, nationality, gender, or past failures—within our churches and communities. It compels us to embrace a truly inclusive gospel, extending genuine love, welcome, and fellowship to all people, just as God extends His grace. This truth assures us that our access to God is not based on who we are in the world's eyes, but solely on His character and our response to Him. It should inspire us to pursue justice, advocate for the marginalized, and share the good news of Jesus Christ indiscriminately, reflecting the boundless and impartial love of our Heavenly Father.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or ministry might I unknowingly be showing partiality, contrary to God's nature?**
* **How does the truth of God's impartiality challenge my preconceived notions about who is "worthy" of God's love or attention?**
* **What practical steps can I take to embody God's impartiality in my interactions with others, especially those different from me?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean that God is "no respecter of persons"?**

Answer: To say that God is "no respecter of persons" means that He does not show favoritism or partiality based on external human distinctions. The Greek phrase (G4381 _prosōpolḗptēs_) literally means "one who takes a face," implying judging or treating someone based on their outward appearance, social status, ethnicity, wealth, or any other superficial characteristic. Peter's declaration in [Acts 10:34](/acts/10-34 "Acts 10:34 - God is No Respecter of Persons") affirms that God's judgment, love, and offer of salvation are applied equitably to all people. He looks beyond outward appearances to the heart and the individual's response to Him ( [1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - The Lord Looks at the Heart") ). This principle is foundational to the universal scope of the gospel, meaning that salvation is available to everyone, regardless of their background, who fears Him and works righteousness ( [Acts 10:35](/acts/10-35 "Acts 10:35 - God Accepts All Who Fear Him") ).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Peter's profound realization that "God is no respecter of persons" finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Prior to Christ, God's covenant relationship was primarily with Israel, a chosen nation through whom His redemptive plan would unfold. However, Jesus, the Messiah of Israel, came not only for the lost sheep of Israel but also as the "light to lighten the Gentiles" ( [Luke 2:32](/luke/2-32 "Luke 2:32 - Simeon's Prophecy") ). His death on the cross broke down the "middle wall of partition" ( [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Broke Down the Wall") ) that separated Jew and Gentile, creating "one new man" ( [Ephesians 2:15](/ephesians/2-15 "Ephesians 2:15 - One New Man") ) in Himself. Through Christ, access to God the Father is granted to all, "whether Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female" ( [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - One in Christ Jesus") ), for all are "one in Christ Jesus." The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Cornelius and his household ( [Acts 10:44-48](/acts/10-44-48 "Acts 10:44-48 - Holy Spirit on Gentiles") ) vividly demonstrates that the impartial God extends His Spirit and salvation to all who believe in His Son, fulfilling the promise that in Christ, "all the families of the earth shall be blessed" ( [Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - Abrahamic Covenant") ). Thus, Christ is the embodiment of God's impartiality, the means by which all humanity can draw near to a God who welcomes all without prejudice.

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

Romans 2:11

For there is no respect of persons with God.

2 Chronicles 19:7

Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do [it]: for [there is] no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.

Deuteronomy 10:17

For the LORD your God [is] God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:

Job 34:19

[How much less to him] that accepteth not the persons of princes, nor regardeth the rich more than the poor? for they all [are] the work of his hands.

Colossians 3:25

But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

Luke 20:21

And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person [of any], but teachest the way of God truly:

Ephesians 6:9

And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.