In the New Testament, the account of Cornelius' servants and a devout soldier is found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 10. This narrative is significant as it marks a pivotal moment in the early Christian Church, highlighting the expansion of the Gospel to the Gentiles.

Cornelius:

Cornelius was a centurion in the Italian Regiment, stationed in Caesarea. He is described as a devout man who feared God, along with his entire household. Cornelius was known for his generosity to the poor and his consistent prayer life. His piety and reverence for God, despite being a Gentile, set the stage for a divine encounter that would have far-reaching implications for the early Church.

The Vision and the Mission:

In Acts 10:3-6 , Cornelius receives a vision from an angel of God, instructing him to send men to Joppa to bring back Simon Peter. The angel tells Cornelius, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have ascended as a memorial offering before God. Now send men to Joppa to call for a man named Simon who is called Peter."

Cornelius' Servants:

Following the angelic visitation, Cornelius immediately acts in obedience. Acts 10:7-8 states, "When the angel who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among his attendants. He explained what had happened and sent them to Joppa." These servants, along with the devout soldier, were entrusted with the critical task of fetching Peter, demonstrating Cornelius' trust in their faithfulness and reliability.

The Devout Soldier:

The inclusion of a devout soldier among those sent to Peter is noteworthy. This soldier, like Cornelius, is described as devout, indicating a shared reverence for God and possibly a connection to the God-fearing community that Cornelius was part of. The soldier's role underscores the seriousness and importance of the mission, as well as the respect and authority Cornelius commanded.

Significance:

The journey of Cornelius' servants and the devout soldier to Joppa is a testament to the obedience and faithfulness of those who fear God. Their mission facilitated a divine appointment between Peter and Cornelius, leading to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Gentiles, as recorded in Acts 10:44-48. This event confirmed that the Gospel was not limited to the Jews but was intended for all nations, fulfilling the Great Commission.

The account of Cornelius' servants and the devout soldier serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's instructions and the role of faithful individuals in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Their actions contributed to a significant turning point in the history of the Church, emphasizing the inclusivity of the Gospel message.