Acts 10:2

"Now there was a certain man in Caesarea, Cornelius by name, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment,"

Key Reflection

This passage introduces Cornelius as a Roman centurion and a devout believer in God, setting him apart from traditional Jewish converts to Christianity. His status as an outsider in both military and religious spheres underscores the inclusive nature of God's call, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles in the early Christian community.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 2. A devout man. Pious; or one who maintained the worship of God. See Barnes "Lu 2:25". Comp. Ac 2:5; 8:2. And one that feared God. This is often a designation of piety. See Barnes "Ac 9:31". It has been supposed by many that the expressions here used denote that Cornelius was Jew, or was instructed in the Jewish religion, and was a proselyte. But this by no means follows. It is probable that there might have been among the Gentiles a few at least who were fearers of God, and who maintained his worship according to the light which they had.

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