Acts 10:7

KJV

And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when {G5613} the angel {G32} which {G3588} spake {G2980} unto Cornelius {G2883} was departed {G565}, he called {G5455} two {G1417} of his {G846} household servants {G3610}, and {G2532} a devout {G2152} soldier {G4757} of them that waited on {G4342} him {G846} continually {G4342};

Complete Jewish Bible

As the angel that had spoken to him went away, Cornelius called two of his household slaves and one of his military aides, who was a godly man;

Berean Standard Bible

When the angel who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among his attendants.

American Standard Version

And when the angel that spake unto him was departed, he called two of his household-servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Following a direct angelic visitation, Cornelius, a devout Roman centurion, immediately responded to the divine instruction by dispatching a carefully chosen delegation. He summoned two trusted household servants and a particularly pious soldier who was continually in his service, commissioning them to travel to Joppa and bring back Simon Peter, demonstrating his prompt obedience and the reliable character of his retinue.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 10:7 serves as the immediate narrative follow-up to Cornelius's profound vision in [Acts 10:3-6](/acts/10-3-6 "Acts 10:3-6 - Cornelius's Vision and Angelic Instruction"). The angel explicitly commanded Cornelius to send men to Joppa to summon Simon Peter. This verse, therefore, marks Cornelius's swift and obedient initiation of that divine directive, setting in motion the pivotal events that will lead to Peter's visit and the groundbreaking conversion of the first Gentile household. It highlights the direct cause-and-effect relationship between divine revelation and human action, emphasizing Cornelius's faith and the immediate impact of God's communication. The narrative seamlessly transitions from the heavenly realm to practical earthly logistics, underscoring the tangible nature of God's work through human agents.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Cornelius was a Roman centurion, a commander of approximately 100 soldiers, stationed in Caesarea, the Roman administrative capital of Judea. This position indicates he was a man of significant authority and influence within the Roman military structure. His household would have been substantial, comprising not only family but also numerous servants and soldiers under his command. The detail that he was a "devout" man who "feared God" ([Acts 10:2](/acts/10-2 "Acts 10:2 - Description of Cornelius")) places him among the "God-fearers," Gentiles who worshipped the God of Israel, observed some Jewish customs, but had not fully converted to Judaism (e.g., through circumcision). This status was common in the Roman Empire and provided a bridge between the Jewish and Gentile worlds, making Cornelius an ideal candidate for God's redemptive plan to extend salvation beyond ethnic Israel. His decision to send his own trusted household members reflects the common practice of delegating important tasks to reliable subordinates in a hierarchical society.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Initiative and Human Obedience**, as Cornelius's immediate action is a direct, faithful response to God's clear instruction. His promptness sets a precedent for how believers should respond to divine leading, a theme echoed in Peter's own subsequent obedience to a vision in [Acts 10:9-16](/acts/10-9-16 "Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's Vision of the Sheet"). Secondly, the verse highlights **God's Use of Ordinary People and Existing Relationships** to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. Cornelius doesn't seek outside help but utilizes his own trusted household, demonstrating how God works within the fabric of our daily lives and relationships. Thirdly, the mention of a "devout soldier" reinforces the theme of **Character and Integrity**, suggesting that Cornelius surrounded himself with individuals who shared his values, which facilitated the execution of God's plan. This careful selection of messengers speaks to the importance of trustworthiness in carrying out divine mandates, a quality consistently emphasized throughout [the book of Acts](/acts/1 "The Book of Acts - The Acts of the Apostles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **called (Greek, _phōnéō'_):** From G5455, meaning to emit a sound, to address in words or by name, or to call for. In this context, it signifies Cornelius's deliberate act of summoning specific individuals to his presence, indicating a direct command or request. This is not a casual utterance but an intentional act of leadership to initiate a crucial mission.
* **household servants (Greek, _oikétēs'_):** From G3610, referring to a fellow resident, specifically a menial domestic. This term denotes servants who lived within the master's household, implying a closer, more integrated relationship than hired laborers. Cornelius's choice of these individuals suggests a degree of trust and familiarity, indicating they were reliable members of his personal staff, privy to the goings-on of his home.
* **devout (Greek, _eusebḗs'_):** From G2152, meaning well-reverent or pious. This adjective describes the soldier's character, indicating he was a man who exhibited reverence and godliness, similar to the description of Cornelius himself in [Acts 10:2](/acts/10-2 "Cornelius's Piety"). The inclusion of this detail is significant, emphasizing that Cornelius chose men not only for their practical reliability but also for their spiritual disposition, aligning with the sacred nature of the mission.
* **waited on him continually (Greek, _proskarteréō'_):** From G4342, meaning to be earnest towards, to persevere, be constantly diligent, or to adhere closely to as a servitor. This phrase highlights the soldier's unwavering loyalty and steadfastness in his duty to Cornelius. It suggests a consistent, dedicated presence and service, reinforcing the idea that Cornelius selected individuals of proven faithfulness and commitment for this critical task.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed,"**: This clause establishes the immediate temporal context. The departure of the angel signifies the conclusion of the divine revelation and the moment for human action to commence. It underscores the directness and brevity of the angelic encounter, leaving Cornelius with a clear, urgent directive. The angelic presence is temporary, but its message demands an enduring response.
* **"he called two of his household servants,"**: This part details Cornelius's immediate and practical response. The act of "calling" implies a direct command or summons, demonstrating his authority and resolve. The selection of "two" household servants suggests a deliberate choice for a specific purpose, perhaps for reliability, to ensure the message was delivered, or for practical support on the journey. These were trusted members of his domestic staff, indicating an existing relationship of loyalty and dependence.
* **"and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;"**: This final clause provides further detail about the chosen messengers, highlighting the specific character of the third individual. The soldier's "devout" nature (pious, godly) aligns with Cornelius's own spiritual disposition, suggesting a shared reverence for God. The phrase "waited on him continually" emphasizes the soldier's unwavering loyalty and constant presence, indicating a highly trusted and reliable individual. This careful selection of messengers—two domestic staff and one dedicated military subordinate—underscores Cornelius's prudence and the importance he placed on the mission.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. **Narrative Progression** is evident as the verse immediately follows the angelic visitation, showing Cornelius's prompt and decisive action, thus propelling the story forward. This swift response highlights the theme of immediate obedience to divine command. **Characterization** is subtly but powerfully used to reveal aspects of both Cornelius and his chosen messengers. Cornelius is portrayed as a man of action and discernment, who trusts and relies on his immediate circle. The description of the soldier as "devout" and one who "waited on him continually" serves as a form of **Emphasis through Detail**, underscoring the quality and trustworthiness of the individuals Cornelius selected for this crucial mission. This detail not only adds verisimilitude but also subtly foreshadows the success of their journey and the importance of their testimony later in the chapter.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 10:7 is a pivotal verse, illustrating the principle that divine revelation often requires immediate and practical human response. Cornelius's swift obedience to the angel's command demonstrates a profound trust in God's word, setting a powerful example for believers. This act of sending trusted individuals from his own household highlights God's method of working through existing relationships and the resources at hand. The selection of a "devout soldier" also underscores the importance of character and spiritual alignment in those chosen for God's purposes, reflecting Cornelius's own piety and his desire to surround himself with like-minded individuals. This verse is a crucial step in God's unfolding plan to extend salvation to the Gentiles, showing divine initiative met with human faithfulness, paving the way for the radical inclusion that defines the early church's mission.

* [Acts 10:1-8](/acts/10-1-8 "Acts 10:1-8 - Cornelius's Vision and Immediate Response")
* [Acts 10:22](/acts/10-22 "Acts 10:22 - The Messengers' Testimony about Cornelius")
* [Luke 1:38](/luke/1-38 "Luke 1:38 - Mary's Obedience to God's Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 10:7 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, primarily emphasizing the critical importance of immediate and faithful obedience to God's revealed will. Cornelius, upon receiving a clear divine directive, did not hesitate or procrastinate but acted decisively. This serves as a powerful reminder that when God speaks, whether through His Word, prayer, or the counsel of godly individuals, our most appropriate response is prompt action. Furthermore, the verse highlights the wisdom of entrusting significant tasks to those who are not only capable but also possess integrity and a devout spirit. Cornelius's choice of "household servants" and a "devout soldier" underscores the value of surrounding ourselves with trustworthy individuals who share our commitment to God's purposes. This principle extends to our personal lives, our families, and our church communities: God often uses the relationships and resources He has already placed around us to accomplish His will. Our readiness to act and our discernment in choosing those to partner with us are crucial for effectively participating in God's unfolding plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might God be calling for immediate obedience, and what steps can you take to respond promptly?**
* **How does Cornelius's trust in his household servants and a devout soldier encourage you to identify and empower trustworthy individuals within your own sphere of influence for God's work?**
* **What does the "devout" character of the soldier suggest about the kind of people we should seek to surround ourselves with, especially when undertaking spiritual missions?**

### FAQ

**Why did Cornelius send three men instead of going himself, or sending more?**

Answer: Cornelius, as a Roman centurion, held a position of significant authority and responsibility in Caesarea. It would have been highly unusual, if not impossible, for him to abandon his post to travel to Joppa. Sending trusted subordinates was a standard practice for someone in his position to execute important tasks. The choice of three men (two servants and one soldier) likely provided a balance of domestic reliability and military authority/protection for the journey, ensuring the message was delivered and Peter was safely escorted back. This number was sufficient for the task without being excessive, demonstrating prudence and efficiency in fulfilling the divine command.

**What is the significance of the soldier being described as "devout"?**

Answer: The description of the soldier as "devout" (Greek: _eusebḗs_) is highly significant. It mirrors the description of Cornelius himself in [Acts 10:2](/acts/10-2 "Cornelius's Character"), indicating that Cornelius surrounded himself with individuals who shared his reverence for God. This detail emphasizes the spiritual quality of Cornelius's household and the integrity of those he chose for this sacred mission. It suggests that the soldier was not merely a loyal subordinate but also someone who understood and respected the spiritual nature of Cornelius's vision and the importance of the task at hand, further validating the divine encounter and the subsequent events.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 10:7, while seemingly a simple narrative detail, profoundly contributes to the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Cornelius's immediate obedience in dispatching these men is a direct response to a divine initiative that ultimately leads to the expansion of the gospel beyond the confines of Jewish ethnicity. The calling of Peter, facilitated by these messengers, culminates in the first recorded mass conversion of Gentiles, where the Holy Spirit falls upon them just as He did on the Jewish believers at Pentecost ([Acts 10:44-48](/acts/10-44-48 "Acts 10:44-48 - The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles")). This event powerfully demonstrates that salvation in Christ is not limited by race or background but is freely offered to all who believe, fulfilling the prophetic vision of a people from every tribe, tongue, and nation worshipping the Lamb ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation")). Jesus himself declared His mission was to gather "other sheep that are not of this sheep pen" ([John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - Jesus the Good Shepherd")), and Cornelius's household represents a foundational step in that universal ingathering. The breaking down of the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile, fully accomplished through Christ's sacrifice on the cross ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")), is tangibly manifested in the events set in motion by this verse, showcasing Christ as the universal Lord and Savior for 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

Luke 3:14

And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse [any] falsely; and be content with your wages.

Philemon 1:16

Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?

Matthew 8:9

For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this [man], Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth [it].

Matthew 8:10

When Jesus heard [it], he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.

1 Samuel 14:6

And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for [there is] no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.

1 Samuel 14:7

And his armourbearer said unto him, Do all that [is] in thine heart: turn thee; behold, I [am] with thee according to thy heart.

Judges 7:10

But if thou fear to go down, go thou with Phurah thy servant down to the host: