Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary

Vision of Cornelius in Caesarea, V. 1-6

1) "There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius," (aner de tis en Kaisereia onomati Kornelius) "Now there was a certain man by name (of) Cornelius in Caesarea," in the Caesarea "by the seaside," not Caesarea Philippi, Acts 8:40; Matthew 16:13; Mark 8:17, This Caesarea was then headquarters of the Roman procurator, the territorial Roman governor.

2) "A centurion of the band," (hekatontarches ek speires) "A centurion out of a cohort-band," a band that protected the procurator or governor and also assisted in enforcing his decisions.

3) "Called the Italian band," (kaloumenes Italikes) "That was called (being called) the Italian cohort," perhaps composed of volunteer Roman citizens born in Italy but then residing in Judea near Caesarea.

Centurions seem to have been referred to as devout, reverent, throughout the New Testament. They appear to have been morally and ethically upright and to have reverence toward God, a thing that perhaps helped them hold the position of trust over one hundred (100) soldiers, Matthew 8:10; Luke 7:2; Acts 27:3.

1) "A devout man, and one that feared God," (eusebeis kai phoboumenos ton theon) "A devout and God-fearing man, continually," a man who was known for his respect or reverence toward God, a God-fearing proselyte who feared willfully committing serious moral or ethical offences toward God, though still unsaved, Acts 10:35; Acts 11:14; Acts 16:14; Acts 13:50; Acts 17:4; Acts 17:22; Matthew 8:10.

2) "With all his house," (sun panti to oiko auton) "In close affinity with all his God-fearing household," his family, inclusive of near relatives and servants, a family household with close ties of religious devotions of outward acknowledgment of the God of the Hebrews and their existence by His mercies, La 3:21, 22.

3) "Which gave much alms to the people" (poion eleemosunas pollas to lao) "Who were continually doing many mercy deeds to the people," caring for the physical and emotional needs of the community about them, a thing highly esteemed among devout Jews and commended as a noble trait for Christians, in showing Christian compassion, Matthew 25:31-46; James 2:15-16; 1 John 3:16-17.

4)"And prayed to God alway,"(kai deomenos tou theou dia pantos) "And he was petitioning God continually," as a man of prayer, though as yet he was not saved, Acts 11:14. Let it be observed that almsgiving and fasting were often closely associated with prayer in the scriptures, Acts 10:30. Each was an outward expression of a personal desire to subject selfishness, covetousness, and surrender of personal carnal desires and passions to the hand of God, 1 Corinthians 9:27; note the fasting of our Lord and of Paul, Matthew 4:2; 1 Corinthians 7:5; 2 Corinthians 6:5; 2 Corinthians 11:27.

1) "He saw a vision evidently," (eilen en horamati phaneros) "He saw (perceived) clearly in a vision," he recognized, an open manifestation, not an illusion, not in a trance as Peter did in Acts 10:10, or as Paul did, Acts 22:17.

2) "About the ninth hour of the day," (hosei peri horan neaten ten hemeras) "As it was around the ninth hour of the day," or about three o’clock in the afternoon. It appears that as a proselyte to Judaism, Cornelius, though a Gentile, observed the Jewish hours of prayer and at this hour he had this vision regarding his salvation, Acts 11:14.

3) "An angel of God coming in to him," (angelon tou theou eiselthonta pros auton) "An angel of and from God entering in unto (toward) or approaching him," Hebrews 1:14. Tho angels are spirits they are given power to appear in visible form resembling men, Psalms 104:4; Hebrews 1:7.

4) "And saying unto him, Cornelius," (kai eiponta auto Kornelie) "And saying to him, Cornelius," (he knew who Cornelius was, and he called his name!) God cares for all men, sends His word and Spirit to call all men to salvation and obedient service, Proverbs 1:22-30; John 16:7-11; Hebrews 3:7; Hebrews 4:7; Revelation 22:17. And it appears that the still small voice or thunderous tone in which He speaks thru His Spirit to the souls and conscience of men may come thru the mouth of unseen angels, even today. When I hear His voice I must "Harden not my heart" or stiffen my neck in refusing to bow to His call either in salvation or service, Proverbs 29:1.

1) "And when he looked on him," (ho de atenisas auto) "Then he (Cornelius) gazing at him," at the angel of the Lord, the heavenly ambassador who came to inform him and guide him to Peter, God’s man of the hour, Acts 11:4.

2) "He was afraid," (emphobos genomenos) "Became fearful," was seized, overcome with fear. Men are to "fear God and keep Him commandments," Ecclesiastes 3:14; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Luke 12:5.

3) "And said, What is it Lord?" (kai eipen ti estin Kurie) "And he inquired, what is it, Lord?" much as Isaiah replied "here am I Lord," Isaiah 6:8; and as little Samuel responded "speak Lord, for thy servant heareth," 1 Samuel 3:9-10.

4) "And he said unto him," (eipen de auto) "And he replied to him," The angel vocally and audibly replied to the inquiry of Cornelius, as follows:

5) "Thy prayers and thine alms," (hat proseuchai sou kai hai eleemosuria, sou) "Your prayers, Cornelius, and your mercy deeds (alms)," your outward charitable and religious devotions, have been observed in heaven by him who beholds the evil and the good, Proverbs 15:3.

6) "Are come up for a memorial before God," (a nebesan eis mnemosunon emprosthen tou theou) "Went up (have gone up) as a memorial in the presence of God." It appears that charitable deeds of both the saved and unsaved, as an expression of God’s great heart of charity and gift of charity (John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 9:15) are daily observed from, and recognized in heaven, Matthew 25:31-46; Matthew 26:13; Hebrews 6:8-10; Colossians 3:14; 2 Timothy 2:22; 2 Peter 1:7.

1) "And now send men to Joppa," (kai nun pempson andras eis loppen) "And (for) now and for future purposes send responsible men to Joppa," where Peter had resided for several days; The idea is, it is your choice, but what you should do of your own will, and accord and for your own need and benefit is to send men. The words were not an imperative mandate but a guide to salvation.

2) "And call for one Simon," (kai metapempsai Saimona) "And summon Simon," Simon Peter; This was a compassionate, divine call, not a mandate that was forced upon Cornelius, as indicated by the verbal middle voice of the word, "send" for this man Simon Peter, if you have the strong will to know how to be saved, John 7:17; Acts 11:14.

3) "Whose surname is Peter:" (tina hos epikaleitai Petros) "The one (Simon) whose surname is Peter," that there be no misunderstanding of the identity of the messenger of God, yet unknown to Cornelius, but who was to explain the gospel so that both he and his household might hear the word, understand, and be saved, Acts 10:34-43; Acts 11:11-18.

1) "He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner," (houtos ksenizetai para tini Simoni bursei) "This man (Simon Peter) lodged with a certain Simon who was a tanner," the establishment of identity is so important in delivering specific, designated messages to designated persons, since each must give account for himself, Romans 14:11-12.

2) "Whose house is by the seaside:” (hoestinoikia para thalassan) "Who has an house alongside the sea," by the sea outside the city. Note the messengers were to deliver their message to the right "Simon," the one on whose conscience and soul God was also working to prepare him to make the trip to the Gentile home to preach the "no-difference" story of salvation, Acts 10:43; Acts 15:9.

3) "He shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do," (Gk. omits in Nestle) The idea is that Cornelius would receive instructions from Simon Peter concerning salvation that left him with an option, as a free moral (responsible) person, to receive salvation or reject it, as also each responsible member of his household could do, Ezekiel 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9; John 1:11-12; John 8:24; Acts 11:14.

Cornelius Sends Three Servants to Joppa for Peter, V. 7-8

1) "And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed," (hos de Apelthen ho lalon auto) "And as the angel speaking to him (to Cornelius) went away or departed," as soon as the angel was gone, Acts 10:3.

2) "He called two of his household servants," (phonesas duo ton oiketon) "He called to him two of his household servants; An household (oiketon) servant was more closely associated with the family than the (doulas) or menial hard- task-slave-servant. Tho the day was late, he lost no time rounding up his servants to send for Peter as directed by the angel, Acts 10:5-6.

3) "And a devout soldier," (kai stratioten eusebe) "And a devout soldier," perhaps from his own Italian cohort, a servant who was loyal and perhaps prayed, gave alms, and fasted, as Cornelius did, a trusted sentry, 1 Corinthians 7:20-21.

4) "Of them that waited on him continually," (ton proskarterounton auto)"Of those who continually waited on, attended, or assisted him," of the Italian band of one hundred, Acts 10:1-2; Acts 10:4. They served the centurion, their master in sincerity of heart, Ephesians 6:5-8.

Not the three witnesses consisted of two household or family care servants and a trusted soldier, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word might be established, attested, or certified, Deuteronomy 17:6; Deuteronomy 19:15; Matthew 18:16; John 8:14.

1) "And when he had declared," (kai eksegesamenos) "And when he had explained," reviewed with the three witnesses what he had seen and heard in the vision, Acts 10:36.

2) "All these things unto them," (kapanta autois) "All these things (that had occurred) unto them," to his two household servants and to his devout soldier from the one hundred member Italian band at his service, Acts 10:1-2.

3) "He sent them to Joppa," (apeseilen autous eis ten loppen) "He sent (commissioned) them into Joppa, “with a special message to a special person, to Simon Peter, God’s man who was then lodging outside the city wall, but at Joppa in the home of Simon the tanner by the seaside, Acts 10:5-6, as recounted and later confirmed by Peter, Acts 11:11-14. On what a mission they went that day, greater than they had ever gone on before, that their master and his household might be saved! Luke 19:10; John 20:21.

Tho the soldiers were not bound to serve Cornelius in religious matters it is to the credit of their loyalty that these two servants and the special soldier departed to find and bring Peter back to their master’s house. They were obedient servants who honored their master, who also had respect for them, a blessed union, Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22; 1 Timothy 6:1-2; Titus 2:9-10.

Peter’s Great Sheet Vision V. 9-16

1) "On the morrow, as they went on their journey," (te de epaurion hodoiporounton) "Then on the following day, as they were journeying," to Joppa where they were to find Peter, Acts 10:5. The distance from Caesarea to Joppa was about 30 miles.

2) "And drew nigh unto the city," (ekeinon kai te polei engizonton) "Even as they came near to the city," of Joppa by the seaside, Acts 10:6. It was located about forty (40) miles northwest of Jerusalem. It was an important Mediterranean seacoast town in the tribe of Dan - It is called Jaffa today, Jonah 1:3; Acts 9:36; Acts 9:38; Acts 9:42.

3) "Peter went up upon the housetop to pray," (anebe Petros epi to doma proseukasasthai) "Peter ascended (went up) upon the roof of the lodging place to pray," at the house of Simon the tanner where he was residing, Acts 11:5. It was a flat roof housetop or terrace, surrounded usually by a banister or wall, Deuteronomy 22:8; Luke 18:1.

4) "About the sixth hour:"(peri horan ekten) "Around or about the sixth hour of the day," about noontime, high noon, or midday, while the sun was at meridian’s height. It was about the hour men often rested and prayed, John 4:6; John 19:14.

1) "And he became very hungry," (egeneto de prospeinos) "Then he became very hungry," very hungry, because it was noon mealtime.

2) "And would have eaten," (kai ethelen geusasthai) "And wished very much to eat," to satisfy his hunger, to break his prayer and temporary fast. Peter was praying while waiting for his ordinary noon meal.

3) "But while they made ready," (paraskeuazonton de auton) "But while they where he lodged prepared to eat," while the meal was being prepared where he was lodging or boarding, at Simon the tanner’s house or inn, by the seaside, Acts 10:5-6.

4) "He fell into a trance," (egeneto ep’ auton ekstasis) "There came upon him an ecstasy," or upon him a trance, a state of emotional rapture from what he saw and heard from the Lord, similar to John’s experience on the island of Patmos, Revelation 1:10; Acts 11:5.

1) "And saw heaven opened," (kai theorei ton ouranon aneogmenon) "And he gazed (gazes) upon the heaven as having been opened," beholdeth heaven, an historic present of vivid reality, Acts 7:56; 1 Corinthians 2:9. It was opened for a disclosure not before clearly understood, Ephesians 3:5-6.

2) "And a certain vessel descending unto him," (kai katabainon skeuos ti) "And a certain vessel coming down before him," perhaps similar in appearance to a fallen sail from a sailboat with which Peter was familiar.

3) "As it had been a great sheet," (hos othonen megalen) "As or similar to a great sheet," having the visual appearance of a great sheet or sailcloth, Acts 11:5.

4) "Knit at the four corners," (tessarsin archais) "By four corners, as it had been knit," in a square or rectangular appearance, suspended by four edges or corners, prepared for usefulness.

5) "And let down to the earth:”(kathiemenon epi tes ges) "Let down upon the earth," from heaven the upper regions of glory. The witness of the shed blood of Christ is offered to and for all, and saves people now, because the need is now, for all nations, Romans 1:14-16; 2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:7; Hebrews 4:7.

1) "Wherein were all manner of four-footed beasts of the earth," (en ho huperchen panta ta tetrapoda tes ges) "in which there appeared all kinds of quadrapeds (fourfooted beasts) of the earth;" In the variety and diversity of the animals may be seen the shed blood of Christ for all men everywhere, Titus 2:11; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Hebrews 2:9; Romans 1:14-16.

2) "And wild beasts, and creeping things,"(kai herpeta) "And reptiles and/or creeping creatures;" unclean beasts were symbols of heathen or Gentile races to Peter, a Jew, who considered all Gentiles as unclean, spiritually and physically uncircumcised, Acts 7:51.

3) "And fowls of the air," (kai peteina tou ouranou) "And birds or fowls of the air, the lower heaven;" 1 Corinthians 15:39, from all kinds of flesh except fish and human flesh, Peter was commanded to observe and eat flesh that was abhorrent to law-keepers, those who doted on salvation thru loyal observances of the law rites and ceremonies, Romans 10:1-10.

In the variety of animals lay the point of the lesson, 2 Corinthians 5:14.

1) "And there came a voice to him," (kai egeneto phone pros auton) "And there came to him (to Peter) a voice," an audible, intelligible voice, one that he understood, much as that voice that spoke to Saul on the Damascus road, Acts 9:5-9.

2) "Rise, Peter; kill, and eat," (anastas Petre thuson kai phage) "Saying, stand up Peter, slay(kill) and eat your fill," without regards for clean or unclean beasts, fowls, creeping things, (reptiles), or fishes as restricted under the Levitical Law, Leviticus 11:1-47; Deuteronomy 14:3;

a) Of beasts, Deuteronomy 14:4-8.

b) Of fishes, Deuteronomy 14:9-10.

c) Of fowls, Deuteronomy 14:11-21.

1) "But Peter said, Not so, Lord;”- (ho de Petros eipen

Medamos, kurie) "Then Peter replied, no, not at all Master," or never Lord. It took this vision, message and experience for Peter’s conversion to witness to the Gentiles and to strengthen the brethren," Luke 22:32; Acts 11:2-18.

2) "For I have never eaten any thing," (hoti oudepote ephagen pan) "Because never at all have I eaten anything at all," as a keeper of the Mosaic or Levitical law with its dietary rites, which had been done away with the fulfillment of the Law, Colossians 2:14-17; Romans 14:3; Romans 4:14-23.

3) "That is common or unclean," (koinon kai akatharton) "That exists as common (profane) or unclean," according to the Hebrew laws of eating, that is hygienically unclean, as prescribed or restricted for flesh food under the Law, Deuteronomy 14:3-21; Isaiah 66:17; Ezekiel 4:14.

-

1) "And the voice spake unto him again the second time," (kai phone palin ek deutetou pros auton) "And a voice came forth to him again a second time," a voice from heaven, saying, or instructing as in Acts 10:13. It appears that Peter only then realized the voice as that of his Lord speaking directly to him, as he had preached, Mark 7:17; Mark 7:23.

2) "What God hath cleansed," (he ho theos ekatharisen) "Whatever things God cleansed," or whatever God has cleansed, pronounced to be clean, Matthew 15:11; 1 Corinthians 8:7-9; Romans 14:14; Romans 14:17; 1 Timothy 4:4.

3) "That call not thou common,” (su me koinou) "You (are) not to treat as unclean," or to defy God’s declaration, or mandate, John 4:9; Acts 15:8-11; 1 Corinthians 10:25. That which entered the belly did not defile Jew or Gentile. It was the fruit of the carnal, covetous, selfish heart that defiled every man, as afore certified by our Lord, Matthew 15:19; Luke 11:41. As surely as the law of Moses abolished compulsory compliance with the dietary Levitical Laws, so did it abolish any further restriction of moral, ethical, or physical uncleanness or cleanness of one race above or over another in relationship to their salvation, worship, and service to God, Acts 15:8-11; Ephesians 2:13-22.

1) "This was done thrice:” (touto de egeneto epi’ tris) "Then this became (was done or occurred) on three occasions," or three successive times. The sheet, with all kinds of creatures, was lowered from and raised again into heaven three times, while the Lord, to emphasize repeated His mandate, three times, as if to certify the Divine Message.

Peter Confers with Messengers of Cornelius, V. 17-22

1) "Now while Peter doubted in himself," (hos de en heauto dieporie ho Petros) "Then as Peter was perplexed or questioning in himself," meditating on what he had seen and heard, seriously considering the-meaning and consequence of the meaning.

2) "What this vision which he had seen should mean," (ti an eie to horama ho eiden) "What the vision that he had seen really meant," what the effect on men would be when reported and what their response would mean, Acts 10:9-16.

3) "Behold, the men which were sent," (idou hoi andres hoi apestalmenoi) "Behold, the men who had been commissioned or sent on a mission," by Cornelius to Joppa, Acts 10:7-8; Acts 11:13-14. They were men Peter would have formerly considered unclean.

4) "From Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon’s house," (hupo tou korneliou dierotesantes ten oikian tou Simonos) "By authority, and by instrumentality of Cornelius (were) inquiring for the house of Simon (the tanner)," where Peter was lodging, apparently inquiring from door to door, Acts 10:5-6.

5) "And stood before the gate," (epestesan epi ton pulona) "Stood or were standing upon the porch," the outer gate to the portico hallway or passage leading to the door of Simon the tanner’s house, to deliver their message to Peter. These men were the two household servants and trusted sentry of Cornelius’ Centurion Italian Band, Acts 10:7-8.

1) "And called, and asked whether Simon," (kai phonesantes epunthanonto ei Simon) "And they were calling, perhaps a servant of Simon the tanner, inquiring whether or not Simon," the Simon God had instructed Cornelius to have brought to his home in Caesarea some thirty miles northward on the Mediterranean coast, Acts 10:5; Acts 11:13

2) "Which was surnamed Peter," (ho epikaloumenos Petros) "The one being called (going by the name of) Peter," meaning a little stone or pebble, Acts 11:13; Matthew 16:18; who was to be converted from his prejudice against witnessing to or associating with the Gentiles, Luke 22:23.

3) "Were lodged there," (enthade ksenizetai) "Were lodged or temporarily staying there," the very place the angel of the Lord had revealed to Cornelius that he would be found, Acts 10:5-6; Acts 11:11.

1) "While Peter thought on the vision," (tou de Petrou dienthumoumenou peri tou hormatos) "Now while Peter pondered what the vision meant," or pondered concerning the meaning of the vision, seeking to know the meaning or spiritual application or it, as it revealed a new order of worship, Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:13-22; Hebrews 3:1-7.

2) "The Spirit said unto him," (eipen to pneuma) "The Spirit said to him," communicated this information to him, Acts 11:12. And Peter obeyed the call of the Spirit, as Philip did in the Gaza desert, and as obedient children of God should, always, Acts 8:29; Romans 8:14.

3) "Behold, three men seek thee," (idou andres duo

zetountes) "Behold two responsible men are seeking you," are looking, inquiring for you. It appears that the devout soldier of Cornelius had come as a guard and protector of the two servant slaves of Cornelius and that these two were sent for the inquiry, to do the searching to find Simon Peter, Acts 11:11-12. This manner of testamentary verification of two or three witnesses was one affirmed in the Scriptures as correct, Deuteronomy 19:15; Matthew 18:16; 2 Corinthians 13:1.

1) "Arise therefore, and get thee down," (alla anastas katabethi) "But stand up (get up) and descend, go down," down from the rooftop to the level and the gate where the inquirers from Cornelius waited, Acts 11:11-12; Acts 5:29.

2) "And go with them, doubting nothing:” (kai poreuou sun autois meden diakrinomenos) "And go in company with them not one thing further doubting," or do not go on doubting or questioning, even though they be neither Jew nor proselytes. Lay your scruples aside to preach the gospel to every nation, Acts 16:9-10; Matthew 28:18-20; John 20:21.

3) "For I have sent them," (hoti ego apestalka autous) "Because I (the Spirit) have commissioned them," sent them on a mission for your testimony, to be given to Cornelius’ house, as a witness of Jesus Christ, Luke 24:46; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; Romans 1:14-16. These three men from Joppa though unsaved were as surely on a Divine commission as was the Apostle Peter that day. The Spirit had sent those men to secure Peter’s witness in Caesarea. Thus both the reason for their coming to and his going from Joppa was attributed to the call of the Spirit of God, Acts 10:19; Romans 8:14; Hebrews 3:7; Hebrews 4:7; Revelation 22:17.

1) "Then Peter went down," (katabas de Petros) "Then Peter descended (went down)," from the housetop where he had prayed and seen the vision, Acts 10:9.

2) "To the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius;- (pros andras eipen) "To the men (who had been commissioned from Cornelius) and said," to the two household servants and the sentry soldier of Cornelius from the Italian band, Acts 11:11.

3) "Behold, I am he whom ye seek," (idou ego eimi on zeteite) "Behold I am (exist as) he whom you all seek. Cheerfully and promptly Peter disclosed his identity to the three men from Caesarea, from the house of Cornelius, Acts 11:12.

4) "What is the cause wherefore ye are come?" (tis he aitia di’ hen pareste) "What is the cause (particular purpose) on account of which you all are here?" He asked a similar question to Cornelius when he arrived at his house later, Acts 10:29. Our Lord asked a similar question to the blind man on the Jericho road, "What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee?" Luke 18:41. A good servant or steward always does his master’s will and finds blessings thereby, Ephesians 6:5-8; Colossians 3:22-24; 1 Peter 2:18.

Peter Goes to Caesarea, V. 22-33

1) "And they said, Cornelius the centurion," (oi de eipan Kornelios hekastontarches) "And they said (to Peter) Cornelius the centurion," of the Italian cohort, Acts 10:1.

2) "A just man, and one that feareth God,"(anerdikaios kai phoboumenos ton theon) "A righteous man who continuously fears God," Acts 10:2; Acts 10:35; Acts 16:14.

3) "And of good report among all the nation of the Jews," (marturoumenos te hupo holou tou ethnous ton loudaion) "And having a good testimony reported of him by all the race (nation) of the Jews," as Ananias who baptized Paul had, Acts 22:12.

4) "Was warned from God," (echrematisthe) "Was warned by a divine messenger," Acts 10:3.

5) "By an holy angel to send for thee into his house," (hupo angelou hagiou metapempsasthai se tis ton oiken autou) "By an holy angel to summon you to his house," to come to his residence, his home place, Acts 10:4-6; Acts 11:12-14.

6) "And to hear words of thee," (kai akousai hremata para sou) "And to hear (give heed) to extended words from you," words whereby he might be saved, Acts 11:14; The words spoken to them by Peter, by which they were saved are recorded, Acts 10:34-48.

1) "Then called he them in, and lodged them," (eiskalesamenos oun autous eksenisen) "Therefore he called them in (for the night) and lodged them," paid for their lodging or extended Christian hospitality to them, to the three Gentiles from Cornelius’ house, Hebrews 13:2; whom he once considered unclean, Acts 10:13-15.

2) "And on the morrow Peter went away with them," (te de epaurion anastas ekselthen sun autois) "And on the next day he arose and went out and away in company with them," first commissioned by the church and apostles from Jerusalem and second, called by the Spirit of God and an angel from God for this special mission to the Gentile house of Cornelius, Acts 8:14; Acts 10:5; Acts 10:19-20.

3) "And certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him," (kai tines adelphon ton apo loppa sunelthon auto) "And some of the brethren (of the Joppa brethren) went In church company with him," to go down to Cornelius’ house, at least six of the church brethren, Acts 11:12; Acts 10:45-47.

They went as friends, witnesses to the truth of what he had to say, and as missionary helpers in any way they could be used in Caesarea with Peter, 1 Corinthians 3:8-9.

1) "And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea," (te de epaurioneiselthen eis ten Kaisareian) "Then on the next day he went into Caesarea," on the second day after leaving Joppa, Acts 10:23.

2) "And Cornelius waited for them," (ho de Kornelius en prosdokon autos) "And Cornelius was awaiting, anticipating, or expecting them," in patience and faith, Luke 1:21.

3) "And had called together his kinsmen," (sugkalesamenos tous sungeneis autou) "Having called together his relatives," and those near him, to share the hour of the return of the three men who had gone for Peter, and to hear what his response was, Acts 10:33.

4) "And near friends," (kai tous anagkaios philous) "And those who were intimate friends," as to a feast, a time of celebration. These near or intimate friends were likely also people who feared God and of like mind with Cornelius, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.

1) "And as Peter was coming in," (hos de egeneto tou eiselthein ton Petron) "And it happened that when Peter was entering," coming into the house of Cornelius, or approaching the entrance to his house in Caesarea, Isaiah 14:9; Matthew 16:28. Heaven and hell take note of the coming and going of men.

2) "Cornelius met him," (sunantesas auto ho Kornelios) "Cornelius met (came to greet) him," in the court entrance or at the door to greet and receive him, an ancient courtesy, expression of interest and care, Genesis 14:17; Matthew 8:34; John 12:13; Acts 28:15.

3) "And fell down (proned himself) at Peter’s feet," as a servant to a master or lord, expressing the lowliest humiliation, but not necessarily involving divine worship, Luke 18:14; James 4:10.

4) "And worshipped him," (prosekunesen) "And worshipped (to or toward him)," perhaps not in a divine sense as in Acts 8:17, but one of extreme humility because of what he had seen and been told in the vision of Peter as a man, Acts 10:6; Acts 11:14.

1) "But Peter took him up, saying," (ho de Petros egeiren auton legon) "Then Peter raised or lifted him up, saying," Acts 14:14-15; Revelation 19:10; Revelation 22:8-9. Neither men, angels, nor inanimate (lifeless) things are together or individually objects of divine worship, Psalms 115:1-8.

2) "Stand up;” (anastethi) "Stand up," or "arise," get up from your bowed down position of worship to me," as if I were a god. Courtesy, humility, and hospitality are desirable Christian virtues but divine worship of men is a sin, for each must give account of himself as a sinner before God, Romans 3:23; Romans 14:11-12; Hebrews 13:2.

3) "I myself am also a man," (kai ego autos anthropos eimi) "I myself also am a human being," not a person or "object of worship." How different was Peter’s attitude from that of King Herod who later was eaten of worms in that same city when he was worshipped or accepted worship of the people as a god, Acts 12:19; Acts 12:21-23. And Paul and Barnabas also refused worship from those who would have extended respect to them as to heathen gods, Acts 14:8-18.

1) "And as he talked with him," (kai sunomilon auto) "And while he was talking with him (Cornelius)," as a matter of introduction and personal identity the one to the other - Racially a Jew and a Gentile, both interested in their souls and the will of God for them and their lives, John 7:17; Ephesians 5:17; Ephesians 2:13-22.

2) "He went in," (eiselthen) "He (Peter) went in," went into Cornelius’ home, an expression of Christian humility, compassion, and care for the souls of those he had, before the vision, considered as unclean, Acts 10:13-15; Colossians 2:14-17.

3) "And found many that were come together," (kai heuriskei auneleluthotas pollous) "And found (finds). many people who had come together, for a special purpose, as relatives and intimate friends who respected his testimony of life and devotion, Acts 10:2; Acts 10:4; Acts 10:24.

1) "And he said unto them," (ephe te pros autous) "Then he said to them," Peter said to those of the household of Cornelius.

2) "Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing," (humeis epostasthe hos athemiton estin) "You all understand how that it is unlawful (by the Mosaic law)," with social, racial, and religious worship and service regulations, John 4:9; John 18:28. It came by tradition and custom that was considered based on the Law, Deuteronomy 7:1-3.

3) "For a man that is a Jew to keep company," (andri loudio kollasthai) "For a responsible man who is a Jew to adhere to or associate in company with, Acts 11:2-3.

4) "Or come unto one of another nation;" (e proserchesthai allophulo) "Or even to approach (draw near to) a foreigner," one of another ethnic order, Galatians 2:12-14.

5) "But God hath shewed me," (kaitnoi ho theos edeiksen) "And (but) God has made plain to me," convinced me by visual aid, a clear message in a vision and by word of mouth, Acts 10:10-13; Acts 15:8-9; Acts 17:26.

6) "That I should not call any man common or unclean," (medena koinon e aktharton legein anthropon) "That I should call no man at all either common or unclean," Acts 10:13-16; as was done under Mosaic regulations, Leviticus 11:1; Leviticus 11:4; Isaiah 66:17; Ezekiel 4:14; 1 Corinthians 8:8; 1 Corinthians 8:13; Ephesians 2:13-22; Ephesians 3:6.

1) "Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying," (dio kai anantirretos althon) "Wherefore (when I recognized this) I came of my own accord, gladly, without question," disputing or denying when word came that you needed and desired help and guidance, John 7:17; Acts 8:31.

2) "As soon as I was sent for," (metapemphtheis) "When I was summoned," as I received the mandate to your household servants that God wanted me to come to you and you desire that I come, I came, desiring to do the will of the Lord, Acts 10:19-23.

3) "I ask therefore," (punthanomai oun) "Therefore I ask, for my own information," and for the benefit of the brethren, witnesses who have come with me, Acts 10:23; Acts 10:45-46; Acts 11:12. These six brethren were perhaps of the same church in Joppa from which Peter raised Dorcas from the dead, Acts 9:36-43.

4) "For what intent ye have sent for me?" (tini logo metepempsasthe me) "For what reason or (why) have you all summoned me," called me here? Tell me yourselves, what is the purpose, your desire? Perhaps Peter knew, but also knew that it was important that there be a public statement on their part, so that the six brethren from the Joppa church could verify, certify what was done, what went on, Acts 11:12; Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 13:1; Numbers 35:30.

1) "And Cornelius said," (kai ho Kornelius epe) "And Cornelius replied," to Peter, related his experience of four days earlier, Acts 10:1-4. Narrated in order what had occurred.

2) "Four days ago I was fasting until this hour;” (apo tetartes herneras mechri tautes tes horas emen) "From the fourth day past (four days ago) until this hour I was (fasting)," in devotion to God. The "this hour" means it was about 3 p.m. four days earlier.

3) "And at the ninth hour I prayed in my house," (ten enaten proseuchomenos en to oiko mou) "And praying at the ninth hour (of that day) in my house," at about 3 o’clock in the afternoon, after nine hours extended fasting he prayed about what he should do, Acts 10:5-6; Acts 11:14.

4) "And behold a man stood before me," (kai idou aner este enopion mou) "And behold a man stood before me, in my presence; It appears that this "man" was the same angel" or messenger referred to in Acts 10:3-4 as "what is it Lord?" Hebrews 1:14.

5) "In bright clothing," (en estheti lampra) "In bright array, clothing, or apparel," in angelic appearance, as in Matthew 28:3; Mark 16:5; Luke 24:4; Divine message bearers are frequently referred to as both men in white or dazzling apparel and as angels, Acts 1:10-11.

1) "And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard," (kai phesin Kornelie eisekousthe sou he prosluche) "And says, Cornelius, your prayer was heard," though he was a Gentile, Acts 10:34-35. Let it be understood that no race, family or person has a restricted franchise on praying to God and being heard, Luke 18:13-14; Romans 10:13; Acts 17:29; Psalms 145:18-19. God hears sinners’ prayers and answers them.

2) "And thine alms," (kai hai eleemosunai sou) "And the mercy deeds, alms, or eeleomosinary deeds of you," the charitable and hospitable good will deeds he rendered acknowledging his belief in God and the value of human life, important in expressing faith in the existence of God, Hebrews 1:1; Hebrews 1:6.

3) "Are had in remembrance in the sight of God," (emnes thesan enopion tou theou) "Were (and have been) remembered before God," in His presence, or in His sight. God observes earnest prayers, fasting, and alms devoutly offered to Him still. This man confirmed and reconfirmed the sincerity of his faith or belief in God by charitable deeds, prayers, and devotions, so that God responded to his expression of faith, (Hebrews 11:1; Hebrews 11:6) and sent one to tell him what to do to be saved, even as He does to every honest person, John 7:17; as He did to the eunuch, Acts 8:29; Luke 19:10; John 20:21; Romans 1:14-16.

1) "Send therefore to Joppa,"(pempson oun eis loppen) "Send (inquiry) therefore to Joppa," send a summons to Joppa, the seacoast city some 30 miles south of Caesarea, Acts 11:4-5; Acts 11:13.

2) "And call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter;”(kai metakalesai Simona hos epiikaleitai Petros) "And call for (summon) Simon who is surnamed Peter," the specific preaching, miracle working Apostle called Peter, Acts 10:5.

3) "He is lodged in the house of one,"(houtos ksenzetai en oikia) "This man (this particular Simon Peter) is lodged or living (now residing) in a house," Acts 10:5-6.

4) "Simon a tanner by the sea side:"(Simonas burseos para thalassan) "Of Simon, a tanner alongside the seashore," or by the sea, Acts 10:6.

5) "Who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee," (omitted in Gk. text) Even an accepted, praying, unsaved Gentile man who desired to be saved was rendered without excuse, John 7:17; Acts 11:14; Romans 2:1.

1) "Immediately therefore I sent to thee;” (eksautes oun epempsa pros se) "Therefore I sent for you at once;" without delay, Acts 10:7-8. Cornelius responded to the call of God that day, not delaying, Proverbs 27:1; 2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:7; Hebrews 4:7.

2) "And thou hast well done that thou art come," (su te kalos epsiesas paragenomos) "And you have done well, arriving," responding or coming at my summons or call for you, Peter; you are appreciated and to be commended, even more than you anticipated, Ephesians 3:20.

3) "Now therefore are we all here present before God," (nun oun pantes hemeis enopion tou theou paresmen) "Therefore for now and hereafter we are present (presenting ourselves) before God," the "we" referred to Cornelius, his near relatives, household servants, intimate friends, and perhaps some of the Italian band, Acts 10:1-2; Acts 10:7; Acts 10:24; Acts 10:27.

4) "To hear all things that are commanded thee of God," (akousai panta ta prostetagmena soi hupo tou Kuriou) "To give heed to all things that have been commanded (mandated) to you by the Lord," that they should repent of their sins, believe on the resurrected and living Christ, confess Him, be saved, and then be baptized in order to make public their identity of faith with Jesus Christ and His church brethren, Acts 10:43-48; Acts 11:14; Romans 10:8-13.

Peter’s Theme in Cornelius’ House Salvation Same in All Ages

V. 34-43

1) "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said," (anoiksas de Petros to stoma eipen) "Then Peter opened his mouth and responded," as a man prepared of God to speak on this occasion, 1 Peter 3:15.

2) "Of a truth I perceive," (ep’ aletheias katalambanomai) "On or (based on) the truth, I, a Jew, perceive or clearly understand," based on the Divine voice heard and things seen in the sheet-vessel vision, Acts 10:9-20; John 5:39; Acts 1:18.

3) "That God is no respecter of persons:”-(hoti ouk estin prosoplemptes ho theos) "That the true God is not (does not exist as) a respector of persons," no special regard for one man, family name, or nation, Romans 2:11; Galatians 2:6; Colossians 3:25; Ephesians 6:9; 1 Peter 1:17.

1) "But in every nation," (all’ en panti ethei) "But in every nation ethnic order," nation or race of people, without respect, Romans 2:10-13.

2) "He that feareth him," (ho phoboimenos auton) "The one who continually fears him," has a continuing reverence of him, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Psalms 112:1; Acts 13:26.

3) "And worketh righteousness," (kai ergazomenos dikaiosunen) "And continually or repeatedly works or does deeds of righteousness," moral, ethical, social, charitable, and alms type deeds, though like Cornelius, yet unsaved, Acts 10:1-4; and as Nicodemus, John 3:1-6.

4) "Is accepted with him," (dektos auto estin) "Is or (exists as) acceptable (having already been accepted) to or toward him," Romans 3:19-22; Romans 4:5; Romans 10:12-13. The idea is that those of this disposition are "disposed to be accepted," of Him, Galatians 3:28.

1) "The word which God sent," (ton logon hon apesteilen) "The word (last of all, final) which He sent," His very Son, John 1:1-3; John 1:14; Hebrews 1:1-3; 1 Timothy 3:16; John 3:16; John 20:21; Galatians 4:4-5.

2) "Unto the children of Israel," (tois huiois Israel) "To the sons (heirs) of Israel," to the Jew first, John 1:11-12; John 5:43; Acts 4:11-12; Romans 1:16.

3) "Preaching peace by Jesus Christ:” (euangelizomenos eirenen dia lesou Christou) "Continually preaching peace through Jesus Christ," reconciliation, as the soul-peace giver or mediator, Matthew 11:28-30; Luke 2:14; John 14:27; John 20:21; Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:17; Colossians 1:20.

4) -(He is Lord of all:)" (houtos estin panton kurios) "This one is (exists as) Lord of all:" Lord of all people, all time, and all things, all who believe, Matthew 28:18; Romans 10:12; Romans 14:9; Ephesians 1:20-23; Revelation 17:14.

When one becomes a child of God he also becomes the purchased possession servant of the Lord and should yield himself as an obedient servant to honor Him in and thru His church, Romans 6:16-18; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Peter 3:22.

1) "That word, I say, ye know," (hrema humeis oidate) "The word-record you all know," you familiar with the report and message, the witness of Jesus Christ, Acts 1:8; Acts 2:32-41; Acts 3:13-26.

2) "Which was published throughout all Judea," (to genomenon kath’ holes tes loudaias) "Which report and deeds became known throughout all the area of Judea," following Pentecost especially, when the "scattered abroad" went everywhere preaching the word, Acts 8:4.

3) "And began from Galilee," (arksamenos apo tes Galilaias) "Beginning or originating from Galilee," the Galilean area or territory, during the early (beginning) ministry of our Lord, when He entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day in Nazareth, after His baptism, Luke 4:16-24; Matthew 4:12-20; Mark 1:14-22. The New Testament gospel message and the church originated in the country of Galilee, three years before our Lord’s death, resurrection, and ascension in Judea.

4) "After the baptism," (meta to baptisma) "Having origin or beginning after the order of the baptism," heaven sent, mandated, or authorized to be administered by John the Baptist, only to professing believers, Acts 3:1-17; Acts 19:4.

5) "Which John preached;" (ho ekeruksen loannes) "Which John (the Baptist) heralded," foretold, preached and declared. A baptism of water, to those who repented of their sins, and believed on Christ. This baptism was authorized-mandated from heaven, John 1:23; John 1:33; Acts 1:21; Acts 1:23.

1) "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth," (lesoun ton apo Nazareth hos echrisen auton ho theos) "How God anointed Him, the Jesus from Nazareth," with the Holy Spirit, at His baptism, Matthew 3:16-17; He was then led of the Spirit thru all His ministry, Matthew 4:1; Luke 4:16-20.

2) "With the Holy Ghost and with power:” (pneumati hagio kai dunamei) "With (the) Holy Spirit and with dynamic power;" as prophesied, Isaiah 6:1-3; Power to work miracles and authority to teach, John 3:1-2; Mark 2:8-13; Matthew 7:29; Hebrews 1:9.

3) "Who went about doing good," (hos dielthen euereton) "Who went about doing good," finishing the work the Father gave Him to do, doing always the things that were pleasing in His sight, John 17:4; John 4:34; John 15:10; Philippians 2:5-9.

4) "And healing all that were oppressed of the devil;”(kai iomenos pantas tous katadunasteuomenous hupo tou diabolou) "And curing all kind of those who were held under oppression by the devil," Matthew 8:16-17; Matthew 9:32-33; Matthew 9:35. He also gave (mandated) these powers to the twelve Apostles, Matthew 10:5-8; Luke 10:17-20.

5) "For God was with him," (hoti hotheos en met’autou) "Because God was with Him," John 3:2; Isaiah 61:1-3; John 8:29, as He did "always those things that pleased Him," as we, His children should do, John 13:34-35; 1 John 3:22.

1) "And we are witnesses," (kai hemeis martures) "And we are (presently exist) as witnesses, as living testators, beholders of His ministry from the beginning in Galilee, Acts 1:21-22; John 15:27; Acts 13:31.

2) "Of all things which he did," (panton hon epoiesen)

Of all (kind of) things which He did," in His baptism by John the Baptist, Matthew 3:16-17; John 1:31-33; In His temptations, Matthew 4:1-6; In His announcement of His anointing, Luke 4:16-20, In His calling His church, Matthew 4:19-22; Matthew 11:18; John 3:19.

3) "Both in the land of Judea and in Jerusalem;” (en te chora ton loudaion kai lerousalem) "Both in the country of Jews and in the city area of Jerusalem," in His miracle ministry, John 3:1-2; John 20:31; In His death, burial, resurrection, commissioning or mandating the church, and His ascension into heaven, Luke 24:46-51; Matthew 28:18-20; John 20:21; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8.

4) "Whom they slew," (hon kai aneilan) "Whom they (the Jews) certainly killed," who killed or slew Jesus is certified, incontestably in the Scriptures, Acts 2:32; Acts 5:30.

5) "And hanged on a tree:” (kremosantes epi kaulon) "Hanging (Him) upon a tree," called the cross, at Golgotha or Calvary, Acts 13:29; Galatians 3:13; 1 Peter 2:24. No tree ever produced such fruit before or since. As sin in man originated from taking and eating fruit from a tree in Eden, so sin had its payment in One (Jesus) on the tree (the cross) at Calvary, where He tasted death for every man, Hebrews 2:9; that men might be reconciled to God, Isaiah 53:11; 2 Corinthians 5:14-20.

1) "Him God raised up,"(touton hotheos egeiren) "This One (Jesus) God raised up;" This is the crux of our Lord’s claim to demonstrate His Divinity; Other religious men had been great, died, but none had claimed that he would be raised up, keep appointments thereafter, as He did, Matthew 26:32; Matthew 28:7; Matthew 28:10; Matthew 28:16; Mark 14:28; Mark 16:7.

2) "The third day," (en te trite hemera) "On the third day," after His burial. Was He raised up? Testimony of then living hundreds from all walks of life certified that He was raised, Acts 2:24; Acts 4:10; Acts 13:30-31; Acts 17:31; 1 Corinthians 15:15.

3) "And shewed him openly;” (kai edoken auton emphane genesthai) "And gave to Him the mission to become (exist in appearance) visible," openly on at least ten occasions, eating, drinking, and speaking with hundreds thereafter, Luke 24:50-51; Acts 1:8-11; 1 Corinthians 15:4-12.

The post- resurrection appearances were:

a) On the day of His resurrection - -

1. To Mary Magdalene, John 20:14-18.

2. To the women returning from the tomb, Matthew 28:8-10.

3. To Peter, Luke 24:34; 1 Corinthians 15:5.

4. To Emmaus road disciples, Luke 24:13-31.

5. To the Apostles, except Thomas, Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-24.

b) Eight days later in Galilee - -

6. To the Apostles with Thomas present

c) In Galilee - -

7. To seven by the sea of Tiberias, John 21:1-23.

8. On a mountain, to the Apostles and five hundred brethren, 1 Corinthians 15:6.

d) At Jerusalem and Bethany - -

9. To James, 1 Corinthians 15:7.

10. To the eleven, Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 14:20; Luke 24:33-43; Acts 1:3-12.

11. To Paul, near Damascus, Acts 9:3-6; 1 Corinthians 15:8.

12. In the temple at Jerusalem, Acts 22:17-21; Acts 23:11.

13. To Stephen, Acts 7:55.

14. To John, on Patmos, Revelation 1:10-19.

1) "Not to all the people,"(ou panti to lao) "Not visible to all the people (the masses) of Galilee and Judea," not to unbelievers, or to all believers, nor will He appear to all unbelievers, or even all believers, at the very same instant of His return in the air, Hebrews 9:27-28; Acts 1:10-11.

2) "But unto witnesses chosen before of God," (alla marusin tois peokesheirotonemois hupo tou theou) "But to appear visibly to witnesses who had been previously appointed by direction of God," Matthew 26:31-32; Matthew 28:7; Matthew 28:10; Matthew 28:16; John 15:27; John 16:16; Acts 1:10-11; Acts 1:21-22; Acts 13:31.

3) "Even to us, who did eat and drink with him,"(hemin oitines sunephagomen kai eunipiomen auto) "Even to us (of His Apostles and disciples, of His church), who did eat and drink with Him," during His ministry, and even after His resurrection, John 21:5-14; Luke 24:36-44. They were special church member people who also ate, and drank with Him at the institution of the Lord’s Supper, Luke 22:28; Luke 22:50.

4) "After he rose from the dead," (meta to anastenai auton ek nekron) "After the time (God caused Him to rise) out of or from among the dead corpses," and before He ascended into heaven. The "us" who were chosen witnesses John 15:16; John 15:27; Acts 1:8-11, were all men and women who were of His obedient company, the church, Acts 1:21-22, who had companied with Him from Galilee, from the beginning, as certified by the op. cit. Scriptures, Acts 10:37; John 15:16; John 15:27.

1) "And he commanded us," (kai parengeilen hemin) "And He gave orders to us," gave command to us to bear a message, "as my Father sent me, so send I you all," a chosen house-company, John 20:21; Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 13:34; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-51; Acts 1:8-11; 1 Timothy 3:15; Ephesians 3:21.

2) "To preach unto the people," (keruksai to lao) "To herald forth to the people," to the masses, to all nations.

3) "And to testify," (kai diamarturasthai) "And solemnly to witness," bear testimony for this testimony of Jesus(as Savior), Acts 10:43, is "The spirit of prophecy," as well as true history, Revelation 1:9; Revelation 19:10.

4) "That it is he that was ordained of God," (hoti houtos estin ho horismenos hupo tou theou) "That this (Jesus) is the one having been aforetime designated of God," set in order, appointed, or designated, Matthew 11:27; Matthew 28:18; Luke 10:22; John 3:35; John 5:22.

5) "To be the judge of quick and dead," (krites zonton kai nekron) "Asa (the judge of the living and the dead," those now living and now dead, and those to live and to die hereafter, 1 Thessalonians 4:17; John 5:22; Acts 17:31; Romans 2:16; Romans 14:9-10; 2 Timothy 4:1-2; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Peter 4:1; 1 Peter 4:5.

THE SINNER FORGIVEN

A German prince, traveling through France, visited the arsenal of Toulon, where the galleys are kept. The commandant, as a compliment to his rank, said he was welcome to set any one slave at liberty whom he should choose to select. The prince, willing to make the best use of this privilege, spoke to many of them in succession, inquiring why they were condemned to the galleys. Injustice, oppression, false accusation, were the only causes they could assign; They were all innocent and ill-treated. At last he came to one who, when asked the same question, answered to this effect: "My Lord, I have no reason to complain. I have been a very wicked desperate wretch. I have often deserved to be broken alive on the wheel. I account it a great mercy that I am here." The prince fixed his eye upon him, gave him a gentle blow upon the head, and said, "You wicked wretch! It is a pity you should be placed among so many honest men: by your own confession you are bad enough to corrupt them all; but you shall not stay with them another day." Then turning to the officer, he said, "This is the man sir, whom I wish to see released."

- Newton.

1) "To him give all the prophets witness," (touto pantes hoi prophetai marturousin) "To this one (Jesus) all the prophets witness," all bear witness. He was the central person to whom all were pointed by true prophets, Deuteronomy 18:15-18; Isaiah 53:1-11; Micah 7:18; Zechariah 13:1; Malachi 4:2.

2) "That through his name," (dia tou onomatos autou) "That thru the name or authority of Him," whom the Father sent as a reconciliation sacrifice for all men, Isaiah 53:4-11; John 3:16; Acts 4:11-12; Galatians 4:4-5; 2 Corinthians 5:14-21.

3) "Whosoever believeth in him," (panta ton pisteuonta eis auton) "Everyone believing or trusting in Him," including all, excluding none, John 3:14-16; John 5:26; John 6:51-58; Romans 1:14-16; Romans 10:8-13; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; 1 John 5:1.

4) "Shall receive remission of sins," (aphesin hamartion labein) "Shall receive forgiveness, acquittal, or pardon of sins," of lawless deeds, Luke 24:47; Ephesians 1:7; Acts 13:38-39; Isaiah 55:6-7; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 9:22; Hebrews 10:18.

Gift of Holy Spirit to Gentiles, V. 44-48

1) "While Peter yet spake these words," (eti lalountes tou Petrou ta hremata touta) "While Peter was still speaking these words," that "whosoever believeth in Him," trusted in Him, (Jesus) would receive remission of sins, from the judgement consequences of their sins, Romans 5:1; Romans 5:5; Ephesians 1:7; Ephesians 1:13.

2) "The Holy Ghost fell," (epepesen to pneuma to hagion) "The Holy Ghost (Spirit) fell, came down upon,"

3) "On all them which heard the word," (epi pantas tous akouontos ton logon) "Upon all those giving earnest attention to the discourse," to the message of Peter; These were apparently all Gentiles of the centurion’s household, direct family, near relatives, intimate friends and part of the Italian band of soldiers over which he had charge, Acts 10:7; Acts 10:24; Acts 10:27; Acts 10:33.

It appears that all who heard, were convicted by the Spirit 11 who made known to them," caused them to understand, then believed or trusted in Jesus, immediately, Proverbs 1:22-30; John 6:63, after which the gift (manifestation) of the Holy Spirit came upon them, as on Pentecost.

1) "And they of the circumcision," (kai hoi ek peritomes) "And those out of or from the circumcision," the Christian Jews who had accompanied Peter from the church at Joppa, Acts 10:23. Here they are called certain brethren, as well as in Acts 11:12.

2) "Which believed were astonished," (eksestesan pistoi) "The faithful or believing ones were astonished or amazed, - Acts 11:12.

3) "As many as came with Peter," (hosoi sunelthan to Petro) "As many as (all those who) accompanied Peter," from among the brethren in Joppa where Peter had raised Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead, Acts 9:34-43.

4) "Because that on the Gentiles also," (hoti kai epi ta ethne) "Because also upon the ethnics, heathen, Gentiles, or races," those racially different and direct from the Jews, former Divinely chosen custodial race for carrying on God’s worship and service under the Law, Hebrews 3:1-7.

5) "Was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost," (he dorea tou hagiou pneumatas ekechutai) "The gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out," as afore-prophesied by Joel, "upon all flesh," Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:17; Acts 11:15-18; Galatians 3:14.

The Holy Ghost came upon the Gentiles this first time without the laying of hands, as He did to the Jews of the church on Pentecost, Acts 2:4; Acts 11:15-18.

1) "For they heard them speak with tongues," (ekouon gar auton lalounton glossais) "For they (the faithful brethren from Joppa) heard them (the new Gentile converts of Cornelius’ house) speaking in tongues (other languages) repeatedly," as the company of witnesses of Jesus had done on Pentecost, Acts 2:4; Acts 2:6-8.

2) "And magnify God," (kai megalunonton ton theon) "They heard them magnifying God," Acts 2:11-12; Acts 2:17-18. They were extolling the name of God in elevated devotion thru their new birth experience thru believing in Jesus Christ and receiving remission of their sins, Acts 10:43; John 5:1.

3) "Then answered Peter," (tote apekrithe Petros) "Then answered Peter," to the astonished, inquiring, and wondering minds of the Christian church brethren who had come with him from Joppa, Acts 10:23; Acts 10:45; Acts 11:12-13. Peter promptly recognized the will of God, that those saved, who have received the remission of sins by faith in Christ, should be baptized to commit their lives of service to Jesus Christ and His church, Luke 9:23; John 14:15; John 15:14; Matthew 28:19-20; Ephesians 2:10; Romans 6:5; Galatians 3:24-25.

1) "Can any man forbid water," (meti to hudor dunati koluoai tis) "No one, not even one can (is able) to forbid water," can he? There would have been no virtue in Peter’s having asked for an objection from the Joppa church brethren, if they had not had a right to object. It is the "church ye," not the preacher, who has authority to baptize and receive or reject baptism to individuals, Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Romans 14:1.

2) "That these should not be baptized," (tou me baptisthenak toutos) "That these Gentile believers should not be baptized;" There are people who should not be baptized: 1. Those who have not repented to life, Acts 11:18; Matthew 3:7-9; Matthew 2. Infants are not to be baptized, of believing or receiving Christ then, Matthew 28:19-20; John 4:1-2; John 3. Those not believed to be in the faith are not to be baptized by the church ye," Colossians 3:17; Ephesians 3:21.

3) "Which have received the Holy Ghost,” (eitines to pneuma to hagion elabon) "Who received (have) the Holy Spirit;" Those qualified to be baptized, without objection of church brethren, are those who have "received the Holy Spirit," else they are not the Lord’s, See? Romans 8:9.

4) "As well as we?" (hos kai hemeis) "As also we have received?" as surely as we have received, can he? Is anyone able, defensively to object to my baptizing these new converts? Peter inquired. On what grounds did he inquire? On the ground that he alone had no authority to baptize - - Such was vested in the church only, never given to any one man, after John the Baptist was sent from heaven to baptize, John 1:33; Even Paul was not sent, authorized to do it independently, 1 Corinthians 1:17.

1) "And he commanded them," (prosetaksen de autos) "Then he (Peter) instructed them," or commanded them, told them, the household of Cornelius, his relatives, and intimate friends what they should further do - not to be born again, not to receive remission of their sins, not to receive the Holy Spirit but to begin their life of Christian service, Ephesians 2:10; Romans 6:4-5; John 14:15; John 15:14.

2) "To be baptized in the name of the Lord," (en to onomati lesou Christou baptistheni) "To be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ," that is by the authority, or as authorized by Jesus Christ, as disciples, instructed believers who had been saved, received remission of sins, and the holy Spirit; Jesus first "made" then baptized disciples. His church, true followers follow the same pattern thru His church today, John 4:1-2; Matthew 28:19-20; Ephesians 3:21. This is God’s order and any other order is out of order and leads to disorder in the church.

3) "Then prayed they him to tarry certain days," (tote erotesan auton epimeinai hemeras tinas) "Then they sincerely requested him to rema-in for a period of some days;" whether or not Peter administered baptism to these new converts, with the sanction of the mission brethren from the disciples, saints in Joppa, is not disclosed, though the necessary inference of the contextual setting seems to merit this conclusion, Acts 9:36; Acts 9:38; Acts 9:41; Acts 9:43; Acts 10:23; Acts 10:45-46.

The New Testament church (new covenant), the House of God which Jesus built, which was and is better than the house that Moses built (Hebrews 3:1-7) was given the ordinances to administer and guard, not the preacher "ye," but the church "ye," Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 13:34; Mark 16:15; John 20:21; Acts 1:8-11; Ephesians 3:21; 1 Timothy 3:15.