The Greek name Kornḗlios, represented by G2883, identifies a Roman man named Cornelius. It appears 10 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. All occurrences are found in the tenth chapter of the book of Acts, highlighting the central role this individual plays in a pivotal biblical narrative.
In the biblical narrative, Kornḗlios is introduced as a centurion G1543 of the Italian G2483 band, living in Caesarea G2542 Acts 10:1. He is characterized as a just G1342 man G435 who feareth G5399 God G2316 and has a good report G3140 among the Jews G2453 Acts 10:22. His piety is demonstrated through constant prayer G4335 and giving alms G1654, which are explicitly noted as being had in remembrance G3415 before God Acts 10:31. The story centers on him receiving a vision G3705 of an angel G32 who instructs him to send for the apostle Peter G4074 Acts 10:3-5.
Several related words clarify the identity and character of Cornelius:
- G1543 hekatontárchēs (centurion): This term defines his rank as "the captain of one hundred men" Acts 10:1. This establishes him as a Roman military officer with authority.
- G2152 eusebḗs (devout): Meaning "well-reverent, i.e. pious," this word describes the sincere nature of his faith. It is used to describe both Cornelius himself and a soldier G4757 who served him (Acts 10:2, Acts 10:7).
- G5399 phobéō (to revere): This word, used to describe Cornelius as one that "feareth God" Acts 10:22, indicates a deep awe and reverence. His piety is a defining attribute.
- G1654 eleēmosýnē (alms): This word refers to his charitable acts, which are presented as a memorial before God Acts 10:4. It shows that his faith was expressed through tangible actions.
The theological weight of the account of Kornḗlios G2883 is significant.
- A God-Fearing Gentile: As a Roman centurion G1543, Cornelius is a non-Jew. However, he is described with terms like just G1342 and devout G2152, attributes of a righteous person Acts 10:22. His story demonstrates that a person's sincere piety and actions are seen by God G2316 regardless of their national identity Acts 10:31.
- Divine Summons: The narrative emphasizes that God initiates the contact. Cornelius is warned from God G5537 by a holy G40 angel G32 to send for G3343 Peter Acts 10:22. This direct, divine intervention underscores the importance of the event.
- Opening the Door to the Gentiles: The encounter between Cornelius and Peter G4074 is foundational. When Peter arrives, Cornelius has already called together G4779 his kinsmen G4773 and friends G5384, preparing his entire household to hear G191 the words G4487 from the apostle (Acts 10:22, Acts 10:24).
In summary, Kornḗlios G2883 is more than just a historical name; he is the central figure in a narrative that marks a critical turning point. He embodies the devout Gentile whose reverence for God, demonstrated through prayer G4335 and alms G1654, prompts a direct divine response. The account of this Roman centurion G1543 serves as a clear illustration of God's plan to extend his message beyond the Jews G2453 to all nations.
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