Gospel Outreach International

How do we reconcile the apparent hostility toward Gentiles in Jesus’ time with God’s actual commands in Scripture? In this Bible study on Acts 10:23-33, we explore the powerful story of Peter’s visit to Cornelius, a pivotal moment when the gospel explicitly broke through ethnic and cultural barriers. Through this passage, we see God’s heart for all people, regardless of background, and the essential truth that while good works and religious devotion are commendable, they alone cannot save. We’ll discover seven important principles that emerge from this text and challenge us to examine how we might be creating barriers that God never intended. Are we truly reflecting God’s inclusive love in our attitudes and actions toward others?

But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” Acts 10:26

• The Gentiles were less sharply differentiated from Israelites in the Old Testament than in the New Testament times
• The Old Testament actually commands Israelites to love and care for aliens/foreigners (Leviticus 19:33-34, Deuteronomy 10, Ezekiel 47:21-23)
• The attitudes of Jews in Jesus’ time (hating Gentiles) contradicted Old Testament teachings
• Cornelius was devout, generous and sincere, but still needed salvation
• Two essential “musts” emphasized: you must be born again, you must be saved
• Religious practices alone are insufficient for salvation

So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord. Acts 10:33

The early church struggled with accepting Gentiles, much like we sometimes struggle with accepting those who are different from us. This passage shows how Jesus challenges our prejudices and calls us to a higher standard of love. Through Peter’s obedience and Cornelius’s openness, we see God’s plan unfold to include all people in His family. The message is clear—no one is beyond God’s love, and salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of background. Let’s take this to heart and be people who welcome others as Jesus welcomes us, with open arms and without conditions. After all, each of us needed the same grace that saved Cornelius, and Jesus offers it freely to everyone who comes to Him.

Bible References

• Acts 10:23-33
• Acts 10:23-33
• Leviticus 19:33-34
• Deuteronomy 10
• Ezekiel 47:21-23
• John 3:7
• Acts 14
• Matthew 28
• Acts 1
• Romans 12:13
• 1 Timothy 3:2
• Titus 1:8
• 1 Peter 4:9
• John 14:15
• Philippians 2:8