In this week’s story, we meet Cornelius, a God-fearing Roman soldier. The term “God-fearers” is a technical term for a Gentile who attended the synagogue and followed the Jewish laws but remained uncircumcised.[1] As we begin the story of Peter and Cornelius, some translations will use the word devout, and others will say Cornelius was a God-fearing man.
Roman society was corrupt. Their many pagan gods offered no hope. As a result, many Gentiles were seeking something better. Monotheism and the high ethical standards of the Jewish faith were appealing. Despite the attraction, most Gentiles were not ready to take the drastic step to become fully Jewish. To do this, men had to be circumcised and make a total break with Gentile family and friends.
Cornelius and His Faith
While sincere, Cornelius’ position as a Centurion made becoming a full Jew impossible. He had to be in contact with the Gentile soldiers under him. We do find out some important facts from Scripture. Acts 10: 2 He was a devout, God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God. [2]
Giving to the poor was important to the Jews, as was regular prayer times. Even though Cornelius was a God-fearer, Jews would have still considered him a Gentile. So, Cornelius had to worship in a separate place in the synagogue and could not enter the Temple. Jews would not enter his home nor invite him to theirs.
Cornelius could not offer sacrifices because he could not enter the Temple. But Cornelius did what he could, and God knew his heart. When the angel came, he gave some Godly insight. Acts 10:4b And the angel replied, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God as an offering! God acknowledged what Cornelius had done and accepted it as a sacrifice.
David had compared prayer to an offering. Psalm 141:2 Accept my prayer as incense offered to you, and my upraised hands as an evening offering.[3]
God Fearers Today
We still have people today who live on the edge of Christianity. The world and culture are in chaos and offer no hope. The promise of a loving, faithful God sounds attractive, but many think they must earn that love. Since that seems impossible, they believe following Christ is not for them.
God-fearing Jews were attracted to Christianity because they did not have to become Jews first. Many of these were the first to receive the Gospel message of the early evangelists. Those who believe they must first be “good enough” to receive the gift of salvation are surprised when they understand Jesus gives that as a gift. A gift does not have to be earned, but we may certainly give thanks for it by what we do.
As we share the good news of Jesus with others, we must tell who God is and who we are in His sight. This can open doors for the Holy Spirit to move and restore. To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/double-visions
[1] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts (p. 170). Tyndale House.
[2-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.