Acts 10:25

And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped [him].

And {G1161} as {G5613} Peter {G4074} was {G1096} coming in {G1525}, Cornelius {G2883} met {G4876} him {G846}, and fell down {G4098} at {G1909} his feet {G4228}, and worshipped {G4352} him.

As Kefa entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell prostrate at his feet.

As Peter was about to enter, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet to worship him.

And when it came to pass that Peter entered, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.

Commentary

Context

Acts 10:25 describes the highly anticipated meeting between the Apostle Peter and Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Cornelius was a devout man, a Gentile who feared God and gave generously to the poor, despite not being a convert to Judaism. He had received a divine vision instructing him to send for Peter. Similarly, Peter had received a vision in Joppa, challenging his traditional Jewish dietary laws and, by extension, the separation between Jews and Gentiles. Cornelius's act of falling down at Peter's feet and worshipping him reflects the profound reverence and awe he felt, believing Peter to be a messenger of God, perhaps even perceiving him as possessing divine authority or power, a common cultural practice in the ancient world when encountering esteemed figures.

Key Themes

  • Rejection of Human Worship: The most immediate and crucial theme highlighted by this verse, especially when read in conjunction with Peter's response in the very next verse. Peter's swift action to lift Cornelius up ("Stand up; I myself also am a man") unequivocally demonstrates that worship is due to God alone, not to any human being, no matter how divinely appointed or respected.
  • Humility of the Apostle: Peter's refusal of worship underscores his humility and understanding of his role. He recognized himself as merely a servant of God, a fellow man, not an object of veneration. This sets a vital example for all spiritual leaders.
  • Divine Authority Recognized: While misplaced in its object, Cornelius's action signifies his strong conviction that Peter was coming with a message and authority from God. His reverence stemmed from a genuine desire to hear God's word.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated as "worshipped" is proskuneō (προσκυνέω). This term can mean to prostrate oneself in reverence or homage, as one might bow before a king or dignitary. However, in biblical contexts, especially when combined with the immediate correction from the one being honored, it clearly signifies an act of divine worship. Cornelius's intent, whether fully understood by him as divine worship or extreme deference, was interpreted by Peter as such, prompting his immediate intervention to redirect the focus to God.

Practical Application

Acts 10:25, particularly in light of Peter's subsequent actions, provides several enduring lessons for believers:

  • God Alone is Worthy of Worship: This passage powerfully reinforces the biblical principle that worship, adoration, and ultimate devotion are reserved for God alone. No human, no matter how gifted, spiritual, or influential, should ever be worshipped or treated as divine. See also Matthew 4:10 and instances where angels refuse worship (Revelation 19:10; Revelation 22:8-9).
  • Humility in Leadership: Those in positions of spiritual authority must maintain humility, always pointing people to God rather than drawing attention or adoration to themselves. True spiritual leadership exalts Christ, not the leader.
  • Discernment in Reverence: It is important to distinguish between showing respect and honor to individuals (which is appropriate) and offering worship (which is reserved for God).
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Revelation 19:10 (8 votes)

    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 (7 votes)

    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 (7 votes)

    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.

  • Matthew 8:2 (5 votes)

    And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

  • Daniel 2:46 (5 votes)

    ¶ Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odours unto him.

  • Daniel 2:30 (4 votes)

    But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for [any] wisdom that I have more than any living, but for [their] sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thy heart.

  • Acts 14:11 (4 votes)

    And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.