Acts 10:32
Send therfore to Ioppa, and call hither Simon, whose sirname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a Tanner, by the Sea side, who when he cōmeth, shall speake vnto thee. Acts 10:32 (KJV)
The book of Acts, written by Luke, records the early Christian church and the spread of the Gospel. In chapter 10 we encounter a pivotal moment when God directs the devout Gentile Cornelius to send for Peter so that he may hear the message of salvation.
Cornelius’ Vision: Earlier in Acts 10, Cornelius, a God‑fearing man, receives an angelic vision commanding him to send men to Joppa to bring Simon Peter. He obeys, dispatching his servants and a faithful soldier to carry out the instruction.
Peter’s Vision: While the messengers travel, Peter is on a rooftop in Joppa praying. He sees a sheet descending from heaven containing both clean and unclean animals. A voice tells him to kill and eat; Peter objects, saying he has never eaten anything unclean. The voice replies, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” This vision is repeated three times to underscore its importance.
Arrival of Cornelius’ Men: As Peter reflects on the vision, the Holy Spirit informs him that three men are seeking him. He is instructed to go with them without hesitation, which he does. The following day Peter and several brethren from Joppa travel to Caesarea, where Cornelius awaits.
Simon the Tanner: Peter was staying at the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. This detail provides a clear point of reference for Cornelius’ messengers to locate Peter.
Implications and Significance: Acts 10:32 demonstrates divine orchestration bringing Peter and Cornelius together, revealing God’s intention to include the Gentiles in the Gospel. The encounter breaks down ethnic and ceremonial barriers, leading Peter to preach to Cornelius and his household, who receive the Holy Spirit. This event confirms the early church’s expanding mission to all nations.
Overall, the passage marks a crucial turning point in Acts, showcasing God’s inclusive love and the unfolding plan to extend salvation beyond Israel to every people group.
