Acts 10:8

He explained what had happened and sent them to Joppa.

Study Bible

He told them
This phrase indicates a clear communication of events. The Greek word used here is "ἐξηγέομαι" (exegeomai), which means to explain or declare. This implies a detailed recounting, suggesting that Cornelius, the subject of this verse, was thorough in his explanation. In a spiritual sense, this reflects the importance of sharing one's experiences and revelations with others, a practice that is foundational in the Christian faith for the edification and encouragement of the community.

what had happened
The phrase refers to the vision Cornelius received from an angel of God, as described earlier in Acts 10. This divine encounter is pivotal, marking a significant moment in the early Church's history where the Gospel begins to reach the Gentiles. The historical context here is crucial; it was a time when Jewish customs were deeply ingrained, and the inclusion of Gentiles was revolutionary. This phrase underscores the unfolding of God's plan to extend salvation beyond the Jewish people, fulfilling the promise that all nations would be blessed through Abraham's seed.

and sent them
The act of sending is significant in biblical narratives, often symbolizing mission and purpose. The Greek word "πέμπω" (pempo) is used, which means to dispatch or send forth. Cornelius's decision to send his servants and a devout soldier to Joppa demonstrates obedience and faith in the divine instruction he received. This action reflects the Christian call to act upon God's guidance, trusting in His plan even when the full picture is not yet visible.

to Joppa
Joppa, known today as Jaffa, is a port city with historical and biblical significance. It was the same city from which Jonah attempted to flee from God's command. In the context of Acts 10, Joppa is where Peter was staying, and it becomes the setting for a pivotal moment in the early Church. The geographical mention of Joppa highlights the interconnectedness of God's plan throughout history, as locations often serve as backdrops for divine encounters and revelations. This reminds believers of the importance of place and context in God's unfolding story, encouraging them to be attentive to where God might be calling them to go or whom He might be calling them to meet.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cornelius
A centurion in the Roman army, described as a devout and God-fearing man who prayed regularly and gave generously to those in need. He received a vision from an angel instructing him to send for Peter.

2. Peter
One of Jesus' apostles, staying in Joppa at the time. He would later receive a vision that prepared him to meet Cornelius and understand the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan.

3. Joppa
A port city on the Mediterranean Sea, where Peter was staying with Simon the tanner. It is significant as the place from which Cornelius' men were sent to bring Peter.

4. Angel of God
The divine messenger who appeared to Cornelius, instructing him to send for Peter, thus setting the stage for the inclusion of Gentiles in the early Christian church.

5. Servants and Soldier
Cornelius sent two of his servants and a devout soldier to Joppa to fetch Peter, demonstrating his obedience and faith in the vision he received.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Guidance
Cornelius' immediate response to the angel's message demonstrates the importance of obeying God's guidance without hesitation.

Breaking Down Barriers
The sending of men to Joppa signifies the breaking down of cultural and religious barriers, a theme central to the Gospel's expansion.

Faith in Action
Cornelius' actions show that faith is not passive; it requires taking steps in response to God's revelations.

God's Sovereignty in Evangelism
The orchestration of events in Acts 10 highlights God's sovereign role in spreading the Gospel to all peoples.

Prayer and Generosity
Cornelius' life exemplifies how prayer and generosity can align us with God's purposes and open doors for His work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Cornelius' response to the angel's message in Acts 10:8 challenge us to respond to God's guidance in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Cornelius and Peter illustrate the breaking down of cultural and religious barriers in the spread of the Gospel?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in Cornelius' actions to our daily walk with Christ?

4. What role does prayer and generosity play in aligning ourselves with God's purposes, as seen in Cornelius' life?

5. How does the inclusion of Gentiles in Acts 10 relate to the Great Commission and the unity of believers described in Ephesians 2?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 10:1-7
Provides the context of Cornelius' vision and his instructions to send for Peter, highlighting his devout nature and God's response to his prayers and alms.

Acts 10:9-16
Describes Peter's vision, which prepares him to accept Gentiles as part of God's plan, emphasizing the breaking down of Jewish-Gentile barriers.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles.

Ephesians 2:11-22
Paul explains the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ, which is a theological underpinning of the events in Acts 10.