Cornelius, the Army Commander, who was based in Caesarea, is considered the first Gentile to come to the Lord. (Acts 10)
Angel’s visit and a trance: God sent an angel to Cornelius, asking him to invite Peter to come and share the message of God. Peter had a trance, in which he was taught not to discriminate between Jews and Gentiles. Peter visited the home of Cornelius, where he, his household, and a few others were present. When Peter preached, they were filled with the Holy Spirit and later were baptised.
Life Lessons from Cornelius
1. Devout: Cornelius was not yet a convert to Judaism; nevertheless, he prayed to God. He believed that God exists and rewards those who come to him. (Hebrews 11:6) When a person draws near to God, God also draws near to him. (James 4:8)
2. Feared God: Cornelius had reverential fear for God, who is almighty, sovereign, eternal, and creator.
3. Generous: With concern for the poor, needy, neglected and marginalised, he gave generously to others. Since he feared God, he loved God also. His love for God was demonstrated by his love and generosity to others. (I John 4:8)
4. Prayed continually: Cornelius prayed continuously, consistently. Paul exhorts believers to pray without ceasing. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” ( I Thessalonians 5:17)
5. Obeyed spontaneously: Cornelius immediately obeyed and followed the instructions. He sent his soldiers to invite Peter to his home as the angel had commanded.
6. Shared his blessings: He did not want to keep the blessing for himself. He invited others to come and listen to Peter, who is being sent by God to his home.
7. Broke the Jew-Gentile barrier: God used Cornelius to break the Jewish-Gentile barrier. Lord nudged Peter to go and visit the home of Cornelius, which the Jews normally do not do. If an angel could visit Cornelius house, Peter, a human, could also visit the home of Cornelius.
Am I a diligent, devout, and obedient disciple like Cornelius?