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Peter at Cornelius' House

Illustration of Peter at Cornelius' House

In the house of the Roman centurion Cornelius, Peter preached the gospel to Gentiles for the first time, having learned through a vision that God shows no partiality. He proclaimed the good news of Jesus, anointed with the Spirit, crucified, and risen, offered to all who believe. As he spoke, the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentile hearers, opening the door of the church to the nations.

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Key Passages

God Is No Respecter of Persons

Acts 10:34-43

Peter preaches Christ to Gentiles for the first time, declaring that whoever believes in him receives remission of sins.

T34hen Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

Did You Know?

1

This sermon opened the church's door to the Gentiles.

2

The Holy Spirit fell on the hearers while Peter was still speaking.

3

It followed Peter's rooftop vision that God 'is no respecter of persons.'

4

It marked a turning point: the gospel was for all nations, not Israel alone.