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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Acts 10:1–8. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The bringing of the gospel to the Gentiles, and the bringing of those who had been strangers and foreigners to be fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God, were such a mystery to the apostles themselves, and such a surprise (Eph 3:3, Eph 3:6), that it concerns us carefully to observe all the circumstances of the beginning of this great work, this part of the mystery of godliness - Christ preached to the Gentiles, and believed on in this world, Ti1 3:16. It is not unlikely that some Gentiles might before now have stepped into a synagogue of the Jews, and heard the gospel preached; but the gospel was never yet designedly preached to the Gentiles, nor any of them baptized - Cornelius was the first; and here we have,
I.An account given us of this Cornelius, who and what he was, who was the first-born of the Gentiles to Christ.
We are here told that he was a great man and a good man - two characters that seldom meet, but here they did; and where they do meet they put a lustre upon each other: goodness makes greatness truly valuable, and greatness makes goodness much more serviceable.
1.Cornelius was an officer of the army, Act 10:1. He was at present quartered in Cesarea, a strong city, lately re-edified and fortified by Herod the Great, and called Cesarea in honour of Augustus Caesar. It lay upon the sea-shore, very convenient for the keeping up of a correspondence between Rome and its conquests in those parts. The Roman governor or pro-consul ordinarily resided here, Act 23:23, Act 23:24; Act 25:6. Here there was a band, or cohort, or regiment, of the Roman army, which probably was the governor's life-guard, and is here called the Italian band, because, that they might be the more sure of their fidelity, they were all native Romans, or Italians. Cornelius had a command in this part of the army. His name, Cornelius was much used among the Romans, among some of the most ancient and noble families. He was an officer of considerable rank and figure, a centurion. We read of one of that rank in our Saviour's time, of whom he gave a great commendation, Mat 8:10. When a Gentile must be pitched upon to receive the gospel first, it is not a Gentile philosopher, much less a Gentile priest (who are bigoted to their notions and worship, and prejudiced against the gospel of Christ), but a Gentile soldier, who is a man of more free thought; and he that truly is so, when the Christian doctrine is fairly set before him, cannot but receive it and bid it welcome. Fishermen, unlearned and ignorant men, were the first of the Jewish converts, but not so of the Gentiles; for the world shall know that the gospel has that in it which may recommend it to men of polite learning and a liberal education, as we have reason to think this centurion was. Let not soldiers and officers of the army plead that their employment frees them from the restraints which some others are under, and, giving them an opportunity of living more at large, may excuse them if they be not religious; for here was an officer of the army that embraced Christianity, and yet was neither turned out of his place nor turned himself out. And, lastly, it was a mortification to the Jews that not only the Gentiles were taken into the church, but that the first who was taken in was an officer of the Roman army, which was to them the abomination of desolation.
2.He was, according to the measure of the light he had, a religious man. It is a very good character that is given of him, Act 10:2. He was no idolater, no worshipper of false gods or images, nor allowed himself in any of those immoralities to which the greater part of the Gentile world were given up, to punish them for their idolatry.
(1.)He was possessed with a principle of regard to the true and living God. He was a devout man and one that feared God. He believed in one God, the Creator of heaven and earth, and had a reverence for his glory and authority, and a dread of offending him by sin; and, though he was a soldier, it was no diminution to the credit of his valour to tremble before God.
(2.)He kept up religion in his family. He feared God with all his house. He would not admit any idolaters under his roof, but took care that not himself only, but all his, should serve the Lord. Every good man will do what he can that those about him may be good too.
(3.)He was a very charitable man: He gave much alms to the people, the people of the Jews, notwithstanding the singularities of their religion. Though he was a Gentile, he was willing to contribute to the relief of one that was a real object of charity, without asking what religion he was of.
(4.)He was much in prayer: He prayed to God always. He kept up stated times for prayer, and was constant to them. Note, Wherever the fear of God rules in the heart, it will appear both in works of charity and of piety, and neither will excuse us from the other.
II.The orders given him from heaven, by the ministry of an angel, to send for Peter to come to him, which he would never have done if he had not been thus directed to do it. Observe,
1.How, and in what way, these orders were given him. He had a vision, in which an angel delivered them to him. It was about the ninth hour of the day, at three of the clock in the afternoon, which is with us an hour of business and conversation; but then, because it was in the temple the time of offering the evening sacrifice, it was made by devout people an hour of prayer, to intimate that all our prayers are to be offered up in the virtue of the great sacrifice. Cornelius was now at prayer: so he tells us himself, Act 10:30. Now here we are told,
(1.)That an angel of God came in to him. By the brightness of his countenance, and the manner of his coming in, he knew him to be something more than a man, and therefore nothing less than an angel, an express from heaven.
(2.)That he saw him evidently with his bodily eyes, not in a dream presented to his imagination, but in a vision presented to his sight; for his greater satisfaction, it carried its own evidence along with it.
(3.)That he called him by his name, Cornelius, to intimate the particular notice God took of him.
(4.)That this put Cornelius for the present into some confusion (Act 10:4): When he looked on him he was afraid. The wisest and best men have been struck with fear upon the appearance of any extra-ordinary messenger from heaven; and justly, for sinful man knows that he has no reason to expect any good tidings thence. And therefore Cornelius cries, "What is it, Lord? What is the matter?" This he speaks as one afraid of something amiss, and longing to be eased of that fear, by knowing the truth; or as one desirous to know the mind of God, and ready to comply with it, as Joshua: What saith my Lord unto his servant? And Samuel: Speak, for thy servant heareth.
2.What the message was that was delivered to him.
(1.)He is assured that God accepts him in walking according to the light he had (v. 4): Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. Observe, Prayers and alms must go together. We must follow our prayers with alms; for the fast that God hath chosen is to draw out the soul to the hungry, Isa 58:6, Isa 58:7. It is not enough to pray that what we have may be sanctified to us, but we must give alms of such things as we have; and then, behold, all things are clean to us, Luk 11:41. And we must follow our alms with our prayers that God would graciously accept them, and that they may be blessed to those to whom they are given. Cornelius prayed, and gave alms, not as the Pharisees, to be seen of men, but in sincerity, as unto God; and he is here told that they were come up for a memorial before God. They were upon record in heaven, in the book of remembrance that is written there for all that fear God, and shall be remembered to his advantage: "Thy prayers shall be answered, and thine alms recompensed." The sacrifices under the law are said to be for a memorial. See Lev 2:9, Lev 2:16; Lev 5:12; Lev 6:15. And prayers and alms are our spiritual offerings, which God is pleased to take cognizance of, and have regard to. The divine revelation communicated to the Jews, as far as the Gentiles were concerned in it, not only as it directed and improved the light and law of nature, but as it promised a Messiah to come, Cornelius believed and submitted to. What he did he did in that faith, and was accepted of God in it; for the Gentiles, to whom the law of Moses came, were not obliged to become circumcised Jews, as those to whom the gospel of Christ comes are to become baptized Christians.
(2.)He is appointed to enquire after a further discovery of divine grace, now lately made to the world, Act 10:5, Act 10:6. He must send forthwith to Joppa, and enquire for one Simon Peter; he lodgeth at the house of one Simon a tanner; his house is by the sea side, and, if he be sent for, he will come; and when he comes he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do, in answer to thy question, What is it, Lord? Now here are two things very surprising, and worthy our consideration - [1.] Cornelius prays and gives alms in the fear of God, is religious himself and keeps up religion in his family, and all this so as to be accepted of God in it, and yet there is something further that he ought to do - he ought to embrace the Christian religion, now that God has established it among men. Not, He may do it if he pleases; it will be an improvement and entertainment to him. But, He must do it; it is indispensably necessary to his acceptance with God for the future, though he has been accepted in his services hitherto. He that believed the promise of the Messiah must now believe the performance of that promise. Now that God has given a further record concerning his Son than what had been given in the Old Testament prophecies he requires that we receive this when it is brought to us; and now neither our prayers nor our alms can come up for a memorial before God unless we believe in Jesus Christ, for it is that further which we ought to do. This is his commandment, that we believe. Prayers and alms are accepted from those that believe that the Lord is God, and have not opportunity of knowing more; but, from those to whom it is preached that Jesus is Christ, it is necessary to the acceptance of their persons, prayers, and alms, that they believe this, and rest upon him alone for acceptance. [2.] Cornelius has now an angel from heaven talking to him, and yet he must not receive the gospel of Christ from this angel, nor be told by him what he ought to do, but all that the angel has to say is, "Send for Peter, and he shall tell thee." As the former observation puts a mighty honour upon the gospel, so does this upon the gospel ministry: it was not to the highest of angels, but to those who were less that the least of all saints, that this grace was given, to preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ (Eph 3:8), that the excellency of the power might be of God, and the dignity of an institution of Christ supported; for unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come (Heb 2:5), but to the Son of man as the sovereign, and the sons of men as his agents and ministers of state, whose terrors shall not make us afraid, nor their hand be heavy upon us, as this angel's now was to Cornelius. And as it was an honour to the apostle that he must preach that which an angel might not, so it was a further honour that an angel was despatched on purpose from heaven to order him to be sent for. To bring a faithful minister and a willing people together is a work worthy of an angel, and what therefore the greatest of men should be glad to be employed in.
III.His immediate obedience to these orders, Act 10:7, Act 10:8.
He sent with all speed to Joppa, to fetch Peter to him. Had he himself only been concerned, he would have gone to Joppa to him. But he had a family, and kinsmen, and friends (Act 10:24), a little congregation of them, that could not go with him to Joppa, and therefore he sends for Peter. Observe,
1.When he sent: As soon as ever the angel which spoke unto him had departed, without dispute or delay, he was obedient to the heavenly vision. He perceived, by what the angel said, he was to have some further work prescribed him, and he longed to have it told him. He made haste, and delayed not, to do this commandment. In any affair wherein our souls are concerned it is good for us not to lose time.
2.Whom he sent: Two of his household servants, who all feared God, and a devout soldier, one of those that waited on him continually. Observe, a devout centurion had devout soldiers. A little devotion commonly goes a great way with soldiers, but there would be more of it in the soldiers if there were but more of it in the commanders. Officers in an army, that have such a great power over the soldiers, as we find the centurion had (Mat 8:9), have a great opportunity of promoting religion, at least of restraining vice and profaneness, in those under their command, if they would but improve it. Observe, When this centurion had to choose some of his soldiers to attend his person, and to be always about him, he pitched upon such of them as were devout; they shall be preferred and countenanced, to encourage others to be so. He went by David's rule (Psa 101:6), Mine eye shall be upon the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me.
3.What instructions he gave them (Act 10:8): He declared all these things unto them, told them of the vision he had, and the orders given him to send for Peter, because Peter's coming was a thing in which they were concerned, for they had souls to save as well as he. Therefore he does not only tell them where to find Peter (which he might have thought it enough to do - the servant knows not what his Lord doeth), but he tells them on what errand he was to come, that they might importune him.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
"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; and when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa." Do you see, that it is not without purpose that the writer says this? It shows that those also "who waited on him continually" were such as he. "And when he had declared the whole matter unto them": observe the unassuming character of the man: for he does not say, Call Peter to me: but, in order also to induce him to come, he declared the whole matter: this was so ordered by Providence; for he did not choose to use the authority of his rank to fetch Peter to him; therefore "he declared the matter;" such was the moderation of the man: and yet no great notion was to be formed of one lodging with a tanner.
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Summary
Acts 10:8 details Cornelius's immediate and faithful response to the angelic vision, where he dispatches his trusted men to Joppa to summon Simon Peter. This seemingly simple act is a pivotal moment in the divine orchestration of events, setting in motion the groundbreaking inclusion of Gentiles into the early Christian community and demonstrating God's sovereign plan to transcend ethnic and religious barriers.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as the immediate follow-up to Cornelius's profound angelic encounter described in Acts 10:1-7. Having received explicit instructions to send for Peter, Cornelius's swift obedience in dispatching his men highlights his piety and readiness to act on divine revelation. It directly precedes Peter's own transformative vision on the rooftop in Joppa, as recorded in Acts 10:9-16, creating a divinely synchronized narrative where both parties are prepared for a revolutionary encounter that will redefine the boundaries of the nascent church. The narrative flow emphasizes God's active hand in bringing these two key figures together.
Historical & Cultural Context
Cornelius, a Roman centurion, was a "God-fearer," a Gentile who revered the God of Israel, engaged in prayer, and gave alms, but had not fully converted to Judaism (e.g., through circumcision). Such individuals were common in the Roman Empire and formed a bridge between Jewish and Gentile communities. Joppa (modern Jaffa) was a significant ancient port city on the Mediterranean coast, known for its maritime activity and as a gateway to Judea. Peter's presence there, staying with Simon the tanner, is culturally significant; tanners worked with animal hides, a trade often considered ceremonially unclean by strict Jews due to its association with dead animals, positioning Peter outside the most rigid Jewish circles and perhaps preparing him for a broader ministry. The act of sending trusted household servants and a devout soldier reflects the typical practice of a Roman officer, relying on his retinue for important missions.
Key Themes
Acts 10:8 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores Immediate Obedience to Divine Revelation, showcasing Cornelius's exemplary response to God's command without hesitation, a model for believers. Secondly, it is a crucial step in the theme of Divine Orchestration and Providence, as God meticulously arranges the meeting between Peter and Cornelius, demonstrating His sovereign control over human events to accomplish His purposes. Thirdly, and most profoundly, this verse is a foundational element in the Inclusion of Gentiles into the Church, a central theological theme of Acts. The sending of these men to Joppa is the direct catalyst for the first major Pentecost for Gentiles, breaking down the long-standing barriers between Jew and Gentile within the people of God, a theme further developed in Acts 15.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the root meaning "to lead out" or "to explain thoroughly," this word signifies a clear, detailed, and authoritative recounting. Cornelius didn't just mention the vision; he "declared" or "rehearsed" all the specific instructions and details received from the angel. This implies a comprehensive communication, ensuring his messengers fully understood the gravity and specifics of their mission to Joppa.
This verb carries the sense of sending someone on a specific mission or with a particular purpose, often with authority or as a representative. It's the same root word from which "apostle" is derived. Here, Cornelius is not merely dispatching servants but commissioning them for a divinely mandated task, underscoring the purposeful and official nature of their journey.
A specific geographical location, Joppa was a significant port city. Its mention here anchors the divine instruction in a concrete, verifiable place. The fact that Peter was found there, staying with Simon the tanner, highlights the specificity of God's instructions and the precise nature of His providence in bringing the right people together at the right time and place.
Verse Breakdown
"And when he had declared all these things unto them"
This clause emphasizes Cornelius's faithful communication of the angelic message. "All these things" refers to the entire vision and the angel's specific instructions to send for Peter, who was staying with Simon the tanner in Joppa. The recipients, "them," are identified in the preceding verse as "two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him" (Acts 10:7). Cornelius's thorough declaration ensures that his messengers are fully informed and understand the divine imperative behind their journey.
"he sent them to Joppa"
This phrase describes Cornelius's immediate and decisive action. The act of "sending" (apostéllō) is not merely a logistical command but a commissioning for a divine mission. Joppa is the specific destination, a coastal city where Peter was providentially located. This action initiates the physical journey that will bring Peter and Cornelius together, demonstrating Cornelius's prompt obedience and setting the stage for the dramatic unfolding of God's plan for Gentile inclusion.
Literary Devices
The verse employs Narrative Progression, swiftly moving the plot forward from divine revelation to human action. It also utilizes Foreshadowing, as Cornelius's act of sending his men to Joppa directly anticipates the momentous encounter with Peter and the subsequent outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Gentiles, a foundational event for the universal church. Furthermore, there is an element of Divine Irony or Orchestration, as God simultaneously prepares both Cornelius and Peter, bringing them together through seemingly ordinary human actions which are, in fact, part of an extraordinary divine plan.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Acts 10:8 powerfully illustrates the principle of divine initiative met with human obedience, a recurring pattern throughout biblical history. God's revelation to Cornelius is not a mere suggestion but a directive, and Cornelius's immediate response demonstrates a heart attuned to God's will. This obedience is critical for the advancement of God's kingdom, particularly in breaking down the long-standing barriers between Jew and Gentile. The sending of these men is a testament to God's meticulous providence, orchestrating seemingly disparate events to fulfill His overarching redemptive plan to include all nations in His family.
Reflection and Application
Cornelius's prompt and unwavering obedience in Acts 10:8 serves as a profound model for believers today. When God speaks, whether through His written Word, the counsel of wise believers, or through providential circumstances, our response should be characterized by decisive action, not hesitation or doubt. Cornelius did not fully comprehend the revolutionary implications of his actions, yet he acted in faith. This teaches us to trust God's wisdom and timing, even when the full scope of His plan is not yet clear. Furthermore, the verse highlights the importance of delegation and collaboration in God's work; Cornelius entrusted this vital mission to his trusted men, reminding us that God often uses a network of faithful individuals to accomplish His purposes. Our readiness to be "sent" and to "send" others in service of God's kingdom is a vital aspect of living out our faith.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who were "them" that Cornelius sent to Joppa?
As specified in Acts 10:7, "them" refers to "two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him." This detail underscores the trust Cornelius placed in these individuals and the official nature of their mission.
Why was Joppa the specific destination for Cornelius's messengers?
Joppa was the coastal city where Simon Peter was residing at the time, specifically staying with Simon the tanner by the sea (Acts 10:6). The angel's precise instruction to Cornelius about Peter's location in Joppa demonstrates God's meticulous orchestration of events to bring these two key figures together for the unfolding of His redemptive plan.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Acts 10:8, though focused on Cornelius's obedience, profoundly foreshadows and participates in the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The breaking down of the barrier between Jew and Gentile, initiated by this very act of sending, finds its ultimate basis in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Christ "hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us" (Ephesians 2:14). Cornelius's act of sending messengers to summon Peter, who would then preach the Gospel to Gentiles, is a direct outworking of the Great Commission given by Christ to "go ye therefore, and teach all nations" (Matthew 28:19). The inclusion of Gentiles, symbolized by the events in Cornelius's household, is a testament to Christ's universal Lordship and the boundless reach of His atoning work, demonstrating that in Christ, "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" (Galatians 3:28). Thus, Cornelius's obedience serves as a human echo of Christ's perfect obedience, which opened the way for all peoples to enter into God's family.