Acts 10:3 One day at about three in the afternoon [Cornelius] had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, “Cornelius!”
There are lots of contrasts in this chapter. Cornelius willingly accepts the message of the Lord and sends for Simon Peter to hear what he has to say. Peter balks at God’s vision, replying at first, “Surely not, Lord!”
Acts 10:4 Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked.
However, as commentary points out, “Peter was willing to re-examine his traditions and prejudices in light of God’s word….” He goes to preach Jesus to the gentiles, and they enthusiastically receive the word of God and “the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message” (v 44).
Acts 10:13 Then a voice told [Peter], “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.”
Lord, Thank You for the times when I react immediately like Cornelius, asking Your will when You call. Forgive me for the times when I balk at Your instructions like Simon did at first. Help me to continually re-examine everything in my life in light of Your sovereignty, love, and grace. Draw me closer. Amen.
Acts 10:14 “Surely not, Lord!” Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.”
Have a blessed day.