The history unfolding in Acts 10.1-11.18 reads simply enough, but is of great importance. There is far more to learn than a simple reading permits. Yes, Cornelius is visited by an Angel, and Peter receives a vision, the gospel is received by many and Peter squares it all with the other apostles in Jerusalem. What else is there to learn?

We should start with Cornelius. He lived in the sea-side city of Caesarea-Maritima, a port built by Rome to be used as a capital of the region. The most capable soldiers were stationed there, and Cornelius was one of them. The New Testament characters had many run-ins with soldiers and even Centurions (commanders of 100 men). Jesus healed the daughter of a Centurion, and here one receives the attention of the Lord of Hosts. Never are they reprimanded for their duty, never are they asked to step down from their position, always they are treated with respect. Those who flee military service because they believe the Bible teaches pacifism are greatly mistaken.

So Cornelius was a military man, and he was also a Gentile. This passage shows how God instigated the spread of salvation beyond the boundaries of the Jews and Samaritans. The door to eternal life was opened to all people now and not salvation only, but God’s presence through the indwelling Holy Spirit and all other benefits of being a Christ-follower. There are no second class citizens in Heaven. No longer was the title “Children of God” solely that of Israelites.

As a Gentile Cornelius and his household could never become fully Jewish, but he respected and adopted Jewish beliefs so much so that he was called a God-fearer. This is a Jewish title for Gentiles who study the Jewish Scriptures. Clearly he had devoted himself to knowing the one true God, and practiced that knowledge through charity and prayer. Is it any wonder that he was chosen as the first to be blessed? Have you have ever wondered if God takes notice of you and your acts of righteousness? Wonder no more.

Cornelius and his house were lead to the Messiah by none other than Peter, the Rock and foundation of the early church. It was important that God teach Peter first that following Jesus is open to all mankind. All the effort of the Angel and the vision and the journey to Caesarea were necessary to prove God’s hand was in this act. The events and how they unfolded was convincing evidence to the other apostles that God was indeed behind the expansion of the gospel to the people of the world.

Notice also the importance of prayer. Cornelius was a man of prayer, and it was while Peter was praying that he received his vision. Following his prayer time Peter was prompted by the Holy Spirit and given divine direction for his next mission. How often do you pray? Do you practice prayer so frequently that it is something historians would pen about your character? Perhaps your life has lacked direction; could it be because you pray too little?

This story is the pivot point for the rest of the book of Acts. From here forward the Jewish origin and nature of “the repentance that leads to life” will recede and the spread of this gospel to the outermost parts of the world will advance. And while Peter certainly started the movement, the torch would be carried on by another. Someone far less likely.