even Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. Acts 10:38 WEB

Under the direction of a holy angel, a Roman centurion named Cornelius summoned the Apostle Peter to his house. While praying, Cornelius encountered an angel that encouraged him to send for Peter. Spurred on by the Spirit of God, Peter agreed to meet with Cornelius. Upon arriving at the residence, Peter encounters Cornelius and many others gathered to hear him preach the word of God. 

The Apostle Peter began his gospel message of Christ saying in Acts 10:34, “Truly I perceive that God doesn’t show favoritism. WEB” With both Jews and Gentiles in the crowd, Peter emphasizes that God does not show partiality or favoritism. He follows in Acts 10:35 saying, “but in every nation he who fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him. WEB” Among the Roman population, Peter follows Jesus’ command to spread the good news of the resurrected Christ with all people of every nation.

Remission of Sins

Peter reminds his listeners of the healing and good works performed by Jesus of Nazareth emphasizing that “God was with him.” He boldly proclaimed Christ crucified and risen from the dead, offering himself and others as eyewitnesses to the resurrected Christ. In short, Peter delivered a concise account of the gospel message of salvation by faith in the risen Lord Jesus. He presents Jesus of Nazareth as the Jewish Messiah and Savior of all mankind.     

Finally, Peter addresses the reason for his preaching. He says of Jesus in Acts 10:42-43, “He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that this is he who is appointed by God as the Judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him, that through his name everyone who believes in him will receive remission of sins. WEB” As Peter preached, God poured out his Holy Spirit on Jews and Gentiles alike.

Yesterday’s Devotional: The Household of God