Acts 10

Caesarea is … sixty-five miles northwest of Jerusalem. It was named in honor of Augustus Caesar …, in the NT period the city was the Roman capital of the province of Judea. Here Rome had a safe haven for its administration of Palestine, though after Roman times the city fell into decay.^[1]

[The Roman in this passage] is identified as a centurion of the Italian cohort (NIV, “regiment”). A centurion was a noncommissioned officer who had worked his way up through the ranks to take command of a group of soldiers within a Roman legion…^[2]

A Roman legion at full strength consisted of 6,000 men, and was divided into ten cohorts of 600 men each. A centurion commanded 100 of these men, and each legion therefore had 60 centurions, who were considered the backbone of the Roman army. The Roman historian Polybius described centurions as “not so much venturesome daredevils as natural leaders of a steady and sedate spirit, not so much men who will initiate attacks and open the battle as men who will hold their ground when worsted and hard pressed and be ready to die at their posts” ^[3]

The Divine Side-by-Side with Humanity

I. Divine Recognition of Man

A. God knows us by name

10 There was a certain man in Caesarea (by the Sea—the NYC of the area of Israel) called Cornelius (meaning horn or hornblower),

B. God knows our work

a centurion (commander of 100 soldiers) of what was called the Italian Regiment (600 soldiers),

C. God knows our spiritual condition

² a devout man (one who worshipped the true and living God–Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible– Acts) and one who feared God (one who sensed the presence of God in the world and knew he was responsible to God to live righteously, justly, and morally toward all men–Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible– Acts)

D. God knows about our relationships

with all his household (he promoted his beliefs and practices at home),

E.God knows our dealings with people

who gave alms generously to the people (one who gave often and much to the poor and needy),

F. God hears our prayers

and prayed to God (our Creator God, not to idols) always,(regularly, habitually).

10:2 “a devout man” There is a threefold description of this man’s devotion:

he revered God
[he shared and propagated his beliefs “with all his household”]
he was always liberal in his many deeds of charity to the people
he had the habit of praying to God (cf. v. 22; 13:16, 26).

This man was religiously, emotionally, and socially linked to the synagogue, although he was not a full convert. To be a full convert one had to

be circumcised if a male
baptize himself in the presence of witnesses
if possible, offer a sacrifice in the Temple.

These requirements prevented many interested Gentiles from becoming full proselytes.^[4]

Matthew Henry— “Wherever the fear of God rules in the heart, it will appear both in works of charity and of piety, and neither will excuse us from the other.”^[5]

II. Divine Interaction With Man

A. The means

³ (Now by divine intervention, it came to pass) About the ninth hour of the day (about 3:00 pm—the second of three regular times of prayer in Judaism) he saw clearly (plainly, distinctly—suddenly and unexpectedly) in a vision an angel of God (sent by the God Cornelius was seeking) coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!” (‘Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:3—God knows who we are, where we are and what we are.)

B. The acknowledgment

⁴ And when he observed him (the angel, seasoned soldier or not), he was afraid (terrified!), and said, “What is it, lord (using the word lord here in the sense of giving high respect)?”

Just think, if holy angels consistently create this terrifying fear, what it will be like to stand before the Almighty, and holy God to whom we all will have to do! No wonder every tongue will confess and every knee will bow.

C. The stimulus/prompting

So he (the angel) said to him, “Your prayers (sincere conversations with God) and your alms (generous gifts to the poor and needy) have come up for a memorial before God (meaning that God kept in mind Cornelius’ heart and corresponding actions in the past and present and was responding to his situation).

Malcolm Muggeridge—“All happenings, great and small, are parables whereby God speaks…. The art of life is to get the message.”^{^[6]}

GETTING OUR ATTENTION

Cornelius had a vision featuring a heavenly messenger. God spoke to other Bible characters through a variety of means—the burning bush of Moses (Exodus 3:1–4); the talking donkey of Balaam (Numbers 22:21–30); the gentle whisper heard by Elijah (1 Kings 19:11–14); the strange object lessons of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 13:1–11). Simply put, God speaks to his people in remarkably different ways—through the written Scriptures, through the words of others, through circumstances and events. It is up to us to listen, to be perceptive, to be alert. What is God trying to say to you today?^[7]

We are not told how much time has transpired before God intervenes here. But, we can be sure God hears our prayers and sees our actions too.

D. The instruction

⁵ Now (here’s what you are to do) send men to Joppa (which is about 32 miles away), and send for Simon (not the tanner, but) whose surname is Peter. ⁶ He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He (Peter) will tell you what you must do.” (it will not be optional if you want to proceed in your quest for God, you “must do” what Simon Peter says.)

In every way, he was a model of religious respectability—and yet he was not a saved man.

The difference between Cornelius and many religious people today is this: he knew that his religious devotion was not sufficient to save him. Many religious people today are satisfied that their character and good works will get them to heaven, and they have no concept either of their own sin or of God’s grace. In his prayers, Cornelius was asking God to show him the way of salvation (Acts 11:13–14).

In many respects, John Wesley was like Cornelius. He was a religious man, a church member, a minister, and the son of a minister. He belonged to a “religious club” at Oxford, the purpose of which was the perfecting of the Christian life. Wesley served as a foreign missionary, but even as he preached to others, he had no assurance of his own personal salvation.

On May 24, 1738, Wesley reluctantly attended a small meeting in London where someone was reading aloud from Martin Luther’s commentary on Romans. “About a quarter before nine,” Wesley wrote in his journal, “while he was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed, I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone for salvation; and an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.” The result was the great Wesleyan revival that not only swept many into the kingdom, but also helped transform British society through Christian social action.^[8]

E. No discussion/options

⁷ And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, (as suddenly as he had appeared and true to his character)

III. Man’s Response to the Divine

A. Immediate action

Cornelius (immediately) called two of his household servants and a devout soldier (a seeker of God as well) from among those who waited on him continually (these men were some of Cornelius’ closest acquaintances whom he’d probably had many spiritual conversations with).

B. Seeks support/help

⁸ So when he had explained (recounted in detail) all these things (the angel said) to them, he sent them to Joppa (after Simon Peter).

GOD SEEKS

Cornelius’s story demonstrates God’s willingness to use extraordinary means to reach those who desire to know him. God does not play favorites and does not hide from those who want to find him. God sent his Son “to seek and save those … who are lost” (Luke 19:10 nlt) because he loves the whole world—and that includes Peter, Cornelius, and you. Even at this very moment, the Father is drawing men and women, boys, and girls to himself (John 6:44). Watch for signs today of God at work in the heart of someone who is spiritually hungry.^[9]

C. Acts on the command

⁹ The (very) next day, as they (the two servants and devout soldier) went (left the previous day) on their journey and (now) drew near the city (of Joppa),

IV. A divine prompting

Peter went up on the housetop to pray (which was a common place for prayer), about the sixth hour (about noon—which was not a common time for prayer).

V. A divine appetite

¹⁰ Then he became very hungry (his hunger pangs went into overdrive—but usually everyone ate their second meal around 10 am) and (yet Peter) wanted to eat; but while they made ready (probably because they wouldn’t normally have a meal at this time—so while they were putting a snack together),

VI. A divine preparation

he fell into a trance (saw a vision)

Twisted Scripture

Acts 10:10

New Age channelers and other occultists cite this verse to claim legitimacy for trances and paranormal experiences. While there are several instances in the Scriptures where God’s people had mystical experiences, such experiences were never sought. They were initiated by a sovereign God. This distinguishes Christian mysticism from New Age mysticism, which urges its adherents to pursue paranormal activity.^[10]

¹¹ and saw heaven opened (this vision is from God) and an object like a great sheet (same words for a great sail) bound at the four corners, descending to him (to mankind) and let down to the earth. ¹² In it were all kinds (both clean and unclean according to the Law of Moses) of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. ¹³ And a voice (as well from heaven) came to him (commanding Peter to), “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.”

¹⁴ But (shocked and horrified) Peter said, “Not so, (i.e., absolutely not!) Lord! For I have never eaten anything common (not Kosher) or unclean (forbidden by the Mosaic dietary laws).”

¹⁵ And a voice spoke to him again the second time (God reaffirms His command in this new dispensation), “What God has cleansed (purified) you must not call common.” (God made the previous dietary laws for a specific reason, and now changes them for the same.) ¹⁶ This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again. (end of lesson and conversation)

God knew the reinforcement Peter would need in order to step out of his comfort zone and grow further in his faith and impact a broader group of people with his faith.

Such separating features were now counterproductive, since God was bringing Jews and Gentiles together in the church, not keeping them apart. On the positive side, the vision pictured the inclusion of both the Gentiles, symbolized by the unclean animals, and the Jews, symbolized by the clean ones, into one body.^[11]

The veil in the Temple was rent. “The middle wall of partition” had been broken down, Eph. 2:14; now there was “neither Jew nor Greek,” Gal. 3:28; the old had decayed and vanished, the new had come in Christ, Heb. 8:13. ^[12]

VII. Divine Timing

¹⁷ Now while Peter wondered within himself (the Greek tells us that Peter was thoroughly perplexed concerning) what this vision which he had seen meant (Peter wasn’t confused about “what” God was saying to him, but “why” He was saying it. Peter knew that the vision was from God and that God was trying to tell him something—but he was plagued with uncertainties and doubts and), behold, the (three) men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon’s house, and stood before the gate (just outside the living quarters). ¹⁸ And they called (out across the courtyard toward the living quarters) and asked whether Simon, whose surname was Peter, was lodging there.

VIII. Divine Instruction

¹⁹ While Peter thought (on) about the vision, the (Holy) Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are seeking you (Peter doesn’t know they are Gentiles yet [it doesn’t matter to God, they are seekers, that is all that matters—hopefully that is all that will matter to Peter]—We also see here that Peter is sensitive to and accustomed to the Holy Spirit’s voice—there is no indication of surprise or doubt). ²⁰ Arise therefore (get up), go down (stairs and greet them) and go with them (God doesn’t tell Peter where he will go as it doesn’t matter where, go to the seekers where ever they are), doubting nothing (do not hesitate, have no reservations); for (the reason being) I have sent them (this is My doing).”

IX. Human Response to the Divine

A. Immediately makes their acquaintance

²¹ Then Peter (obediently) went down to the men who had been sent to him from Cornelius, and said (not because he heard their shout at the gate, but because the Holy Spirit told him about them), “Yes, I am he whom you seek.

B. Seeks their assistance

For what reason have you come?”

²² And they said, “Cornelius the centurion, a just man (blameless, honest, true), one who fears God (has a profound reverence and respect for Him) and has a good reputation (is highly thought of and trusted) among all the nation of the Jews, was divinely instructed by a holy angel (an angel from God) to summon you to his house (which would be unthinkable for most Jews—most would say, “Sorry, I can’t help you, adios.”), and to hear words from you.”

C. Cares for their needs

²³ Then he (Peter) invited them in (which would be unthinkable for most Jews too!) and lodged them. (They had to be exhausted. Whether Peter is struggling with all of this we don’t know, but he certainly listened to, and is obeying God.)

D. Accepts their request

On the next day (without delay, without any fleece requests) Peter went away with them, and some brethren from Joppa accompanied him. (6 others [Acts 11:12] now a party of 10—Mabye to see what happens, or to help, or maybe Peter is acquiring a small following, maybe as witnesses [twice as many as would be needed])

Tacitus—The desire for safety stands against every great and noble enterprise.^[13]

Dr. J.B. Gambrel tells an amusing story from General Stonewall Jackson’s famous valley campaign. Jackson’s army found itself on one side of a river when it needed to be on the other side. After telling his engineers to plan and build a bridge so the army could cross, he called his wagon master in to tell him that it was urgent the wagon train cross the river as soon as possible. The wagon master started gathering all the logs, rocks and fence rails he could find and built a bridge. Long before day light General Jackson was told by his wagon master all the wagons and artillery had crossed the river. General Jackson asked where are the engineers and what are they doing? The wagon master’s only reply was that they were in their tent drawing up plans for a bridge.

Peter Meets Cornelius

²⁴ And the following day (after they left Joppa, four total days had elapsed at this point) they entered Caesarea.

Two worlds were about to collide, as seven devout, orthodox Jews were about to meet a houseful of eager Gentiles. A milestone in the history of the church had been reached.^[14]

X. Where the Divine and Human Don’t Mix

Now Cornelius was waiting for them (“waiting” here is the same word for “looking for.” He was like the father waiting and looking for the return of his wayward son), and had called together his relatives and close friends. (Cornelius did the same thing Levi did when he threw a party for Jesus.)

Cornelius was filled with excitement and anticipation!
He knew he was not only about to hear the Word from the Lord, but he was also expecting to hear some personal direction too.
He even wanted his friends, relatives and family to share in the special blessing!
This is what an open and seeking heart looks like.

²⁵ As Peter was coming in (approached Cornelius), Cornelius (in his excitement and zealousness) met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. (This was not something that Cornelius was at all in the habit of doing when messengers reported to him)

Cornelius laid aside all his power and authority when he sought God, (So unlike the Pharisees and Sadducees.—He knew he was sick and needed a physician.)
Cornelius took on the role of a humble servant, as we all ought to do as Christ followers.—He knew he was the creation that had an appointment with the Creator.

Whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:4)
I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. (Romans 12:3)
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. (Phil. 2:3-4)
Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5)

²⁶ But Peter (quickly) lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; (don’t worship me) I myself am also a man.” (I’m a human being just like you. We are one and the same, created not the Creator)

Peter wanted no part of what most desire, human worship, to be idolized by someone. To be elevated as better than others.

XI. Man’s Instructions from the Divine

A. Peter’s Instructions

²⁷ And as he (Peter) talked with him (Cornelius), he went in and found (the idea of “surprise” is in this word.” When Peter was escorted further into the home, he was surprised to find) many who had come together, (to hear what God would say through him—They were like Mary who chose the better to sit at Jesus’ feet instead of helping Martha). ²⁸ Then he said to them, “You know how unlawful (forbidden) it is for a Jewish man to keep company (to associate) with or go to one of another (Gentile) nation (An obvious question that you may be asking yourself is why would I a Jew, be willing to enter into the house of Gentiles and fellowship with them which is prohibited by Jewish tradition). But (the answer that question is) God has shown me (it was not voluntary on my part) that I should not (as I all my life did) call any man common (defiled) or (ceremonially) unclean. (God himself has removed the race barrier (Eph. 2:11–22)^[15] and because He has, I accept you as God has shown me that He sees you, as clean) ²⁹ Therefore (upon God’s instruction and command) I came without objection (without protest or hostility) as soon as I was sent for (without delay, or procrastination). I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me?” (Tell me in your own words why you asked me to come to you, Cornelius.)

B. Cornelius’ Instructions

³⁰ So Cornelius said, “Four days ago I was fasting until this (very) hour; and at the ninth hour (at 3 pm) I prayed in my house (during my private devotions), and behold, (suddenly and unexpectedly) a man stood before me in bright clothing (brilliant apparel, revealing he was a man in form only), ³¹ and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your alms are remembered in the sight of God. ³² Send therefore to Joppa and call Simon here, whose surname is Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. When he comes, he will speak to you.’ ³³ So I (obeyed and) sent to you immediately, and you have done well to come (you have done a wonderful thing in coming on my behalf).

XII. Man Willing to Bow and Bend Before the Divine

Now therefore (as this divine appointment has arrived), we are all present (ready and waiting) before God (as this is all about Him and from Him), (They were eager, anxious) to hear (to listen attentively—we have ears to hear) all the things (not just what we want to hear, but everything which is) commanded (ordered) you by God (Himself).”

Think of Cornelius’ occupation here, a Centurion. Would Cornelius expect those under him to follow his orders completely? Sure he would, as his commander over him would expect Cornelius to follow his.

As military orders, especially those of the commander-in-chief, are obeyed without question, so Cornelius and all those present intend to obey what the Lord (here referring to God) will communicate to them through Peter.^[16]

This is, indeed, a model congregation, model in its attitude

toward God,
toward his Word,
and toward his [messenger].

Here there is true willingness to receive, believe, and obey.
Here there is no “if” or “but”; they will accept “all things.” …
Here there is implicit faith, which, however, rests, as it must, on the explicit.

They do not as yet know what Peter will say but they do know that what he will say comes from God, and so they are willing to believe.^[17]

[It’s interesting as well that] This being a Gentile audience rather than being a Jewish one, Peter noticeably and wisely goes into greater detail than he has with his Jewish brethren. We would be wise as well to address our audiences accordingly, especially in spiritual matters.

Preaching to Cornelius’ Household

³⁴ Then Peter opened his mouth (under the direction and authority of the Holy Spirit) and said: “In truth (with absolute certainty) I perceive (I see here and now) that God (man’s Creator) shows no partiality (has no favorites between or prejudices towards Jews or Gentiles).

Romans 10:12 – There is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. (e.g., Ruth, Rehab, Jonah and the Assyrians)
Job 34:19 – Yet He is not partial to princes, nor does He regard the rich more than the poor; for they are all the work of His hands. (e.g., David, Joseph, Esther)
Matthew 5:45b – …He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. (e.g., Psa. 73)
Deuteronomy 10:17 – The Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe.

There’s a wideness in God’s mercy,

Like the wideness of the sea;

There’s a kindness in his justice,

Which is more than liberty.

For the love of God is broader

Than the measure of man’s mind;

And the heart of the Eternal

Is most wonderfully kind. —Frederick W. Faber^[18]

³⁵ But (I now realize that) in every nation (whether Jew or Gentile) whoever fears Him (attributes honest reverence, respect to the reality and Person of God) and works righteousness (one who habitually endeavors to live in accordance to their fear) is accepted by Him (is favorably looked upon by God for doing so).

[1] Some have misunderstood this verse to be teaching universalism, [meaning] that [whether some call God Buddha, Allah, or anything else by name or conceptually—they believe that] God accepts all who are sincere on the basis of their [beliefs and] works. That view is obviously inconsistent with biblical teaching and absurd.

[All of these different gods and concepts to some degree:

Contradict each other in fundamental ways
Teach a different means and, even a different concept at times, of salvation
Make some claims of exclusivism

So, if universalism were true, then God becomes nothing and meaningless because He can’t be everything and be real and meaningful. Right? It would be absurd to believe so.

also]

If Cornelius and the others were already saved [as universalism would say], what was Peter doing there preaching that only through the name of Jesus can souls be saved (v. 43)? Further, that they were not yet saved is clearly stated in Acts 11:14.

[Acts 11:13b–14 – …call for Simon whose surname is Peter, ¹⁴ who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved.’]

[2] There are some [as well] who would deny that there is any pre-salvation work on the part of the sinner, leading to salvation. This, too, [is inconsistent with biblical teaching], since the text [here] clearly [shows the opposite]. Is this salvation by works [then]? Of course not. Peter is simply expressing the reality that there is a [Holy] Spirit work in the heart of the sinner (cf. John 16:8–11; Acts 11:18; 2 Tim. 2:25).^{^[19]} [Except the Father draw them and the Holy Spirit convicts them of sin, righteousness and judgment, they cannot come to saving faith in Christ.]

John 16:7–11 – I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. 8 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me; 10 of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; 11 of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
Acts 16:14–15 – Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. 15 And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” So she persuaded us.

This adds a greater significance and hope to our outreaching ministries and church does it not?! To persuade them that there is even a God, is a step in the right direction.

³⁶ The word which God sent (through the Holy Spirit) to the children of Israel (God’s chosen nation the initial recipients of the Word), preaching peace (reconciliation between God and man and between man with himself) through Jesus Christ (God the Son)— He is Lord (Master) of all—(created things and beings—Jews and Gentiles) ³⁷ that word you know (that I know you are familiar with), which was proclaimed throughout all Judea (via Christ Himself initially and through His disciples and converts after Christ’s death and resurrection), and (you are familiar with where it all) began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached (marking the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry): ³⁸ how God anointed (authenticated and equipped) Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit (for His preaching and caring ministry) and with power (from on high to fulfill His calling), who went about (during His ministry) doing (only) good and healing (liberating) all (without favoritism or prejudice towards all) who were oppressed by the devil (the renegade ruler of this world for the time being), for God was with Him (the Trinity was united together in fellowship, purpose and power). ³⁹ And we (the converts of the gospel which Christ brought, paid for and confirmed) are (living, first person eye) witnesses of all things which He (Jesus Christ) did both in the land of the Jews (all through His ministry in Galilee and Judea) and in Jerusalem (where Jesus’ ministry was completed), whom they killed by hanging (crucifying Him) on a tree. ⁴⁰ Him God (bodily) raised up on the third day (verifying Christ’s sinlessness and thus His acceptable sacrifice for our sins), and showed Him openly (during a 40 day period to literally hundreds of people, in fact to more than 500 once, yet), ⁴¹ not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God (those who had placed saving faith in Christ), even to us (his disciples) who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead (at the Sea of Galilee). ⁴² And He commanded (ordered) us to preach (proclaim) to the people (the same good news that saved us to them), and to testify that it is He (Jesus Christ) who was ordained (appointed) by God (being equal with God) to be Judge of the living and the dead (as all, Jews and Gentiles alike, will be required to give an account to their Creator, whereby Jesus will end up being either one’s deliverer or condemner). ⁴³ To Him all the prophets (without exception) witness (testify) that, through His name (Jesus Christ the Lord, implying too, through His power and authority), whoever (whether Jew or Gentile) believes (places saving faith) in Him (Jesus) will receive remission (forgiveness) of sins (past, present and future).”

The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles

⁴⁴ While Peter was still speaking these words (at the same time), the Holy Spirit fell upon (indwelt) all those who heard (received, believed, placed saving faith in) the word. ⁴⁵ And those of the circumcision (the Jewish brothers with Peter) who (had already) believed were astonished (shocked), as many as (6 of them) came with Peter (from Joppa), because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also (testifying without a doubt that God’s saving grace was extended to them). ⁴⁶ For they heard them speak with (the same) tongues (that their Jewish brothers and sisters did at salvation) and (they witnessed the Gentiles) magnify (glorify the Person, Name and salvation of) God, (as their Jewish brothers and sisters did as well.)

Then Peter answered (responded after seeing all of this undeniable evidence of new life in Christ with a rhetorical question), ⁴⁷ “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we (Jews) have?” (The obvious answer being, “Absolutly not!”) ⁴⁸ And he commanded them to be baptized in the name (in respect to the Person and under the authority) of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.

Our ministries at church: helping others to believe that God is is the first step.
The same when we reachout to others in our communities.
Listen for the Holy Spirit’s preemptive work.

God is gracious and merciful to all people.
God prepares the way for people even after salvation. (Isa. 45:2-3; Jer. 29:11)
- Israelites in the wilderness…
- Joseph in slavery
- David with Goliath
- Paul with his teaching

^[1] Longenecker, R. N. (1981). The Acts of the Apostles. In F. E. Gaebelein (Ed.), The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Volume 9: John and Acts (F. E. Gaebelein, Ed.) (384). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House.

[2] Longenecker, R. N. (1981). The Acts of the Apostles. In F. E. Gaebelein (Ed.), The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Volume 9: John and Acts (F. E. Gaebelein, Ed.) (385). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House.

[3] MacArthur, J. (1994). Acts (291). Chicago: Moody Press.

[4] Utley, R. J. D. (2003). Vol. Volume 3B: Luke the Historian: The Book of Acts. Study Guide Commentary Series (133). Marshall, Texas: Bible Lessons International.

[5] Henry, M. (1996). Matthew Henry’s commentary on the whole Bible : Complete and unabridged in one volume (Ac 10:1–8). Peabody: Hendrickson.

[6] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life application Bible commentary (171). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House.

[7] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life application Bible commentary (171). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House.

[8] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Ac 10:1). Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books.

[9] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life application Bible commentary (170). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House.

[10] Cabal, T., Brand, C. O., Clendenen, E. R., Copan, P., Moreland, J., & Powell, D. (2007). The Apologetics Study Bible: Real Questions, Straight Answers, Stronger Faith (1639). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers.

[11] MacArthur, J. (1994). Acts (295). Chicago: Moody Press.

[12] Lenski, R. C. H. (1961). The Interpretation of the Acts of the Apostles (404). Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House.

[13] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts. Life application Bible commentary (177). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House.

[14] MacArthur, J. (1994). Acts (297). Chicago: Moody Press.

[15] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953-2001). Vol. 17: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles. New Testament Commentary (387). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[16] Lenski, R. C. H. (1961). The Interpretation of the Acts of the Apostles (417). Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House.

[17] Lenski, R. C. H. (1961). The Interpretation of the Acts of the Apostles (417). Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House.

[18] Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953-2001). Vol. 17: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles. New Testament Commentary (391–392). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

[19] MacArthur, J. (1994). Acts (300). Chicago: Moody Press.

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