Where Are You, God? 30 First Encounters With Godਨਮੂਨਾ

The Early Church (Days 22-24)

Day 22: Cornelius - The First Non-Jewish Household

The Gospel was about to cross its most significant barrier yet. For centuries, a wall had separated Jews from Gentiles—but God was preparing to tear it down through two simultaneous visions that would change Christianity forever.

Cornelius was a Roman centurion stationed in Caesarea, described as devout and God-fearing. He gave generously to those in need and prayed regularly. Though he worshiped the God of Israel, he remained an outsider—uncircumcised, unclean by Jewish standards.

Two Visions, One Purpose

While Cornelius was praying, an angel appeared with specific instructions to send men to Joppa to bring back Peter. Meanwhile, Peter was having his own vision—a sheet filled with unclean animals and a voice commanding: "Get up, Peter. Kill and eat" (Acts 10:13).

Peter's response was instinctive: "Surely not, Lord! I have never eaten anything impure or unclean" (Acts 10:14). But God's reply shattered centuries of understanding: "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean" (Acts 10:15).

Breaking Down Walls

When Cornelius's messengers arrived, Peter understood. This vision wasn't about food—it was about people. God had shown him that he should not call anyone impure or unclean. Peter walked into Cornelius's house and found a crowd of relatives and friends eagerly waiting.

The Gentile Pentecost

As Peter began preaching about Jesus, something unprecedented happened: "While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message" (Acts 10:44). The Jewish believers with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles.

The evidence was undeniable. They heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Peter's response was immediate: no one could stand in the way of their being baptized with water.

The Door Opens Wide

Cornelius and his household became the first official Gentile converts to Christianity. The Gospel had officially broken beyond Jewish boundaries. When critics questioned Peter's actions, his defense was simple: "Who was I to think that I could stand in God's way?" (Acts 11:17).

No More Walls

God is still in the business of breaking down barriers that separate people from His love. The same Spirit that fell on Cornelius's household continues reaching across every divide today.