Acts 10:35

But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

Acts 10:35 (KJV)

Context

Acts 10:35 is the climax of Peter’s address to Cornelius, a Gentile centurion. Before this, the early Christian community was mostly Jewish, and a cultural and religious divide separated Jews from Gentiles. Through a vision of a sheet with unclean animals, God taught Peter not to call any person common or unclean (Acts 10:28). This prepared Peter to declare that the gospel is for all people, not only Jews.

Meaning

The verse begins with the truth that God is no respecter of persons. He does not show favoritism based on nationality, ethnicity, or social status. This principle is echoed in Romans 2:11, emphasizing that God’s love and salvation are available to all.

“But in every nation he that feareth him” clarifies that the fear of God is not terror or dread but reverential awe, respect, and obedience. It involves recognizing His authority, holiness, and power, and acknowledging our dependence on Him. This fear is the disposition of a child toward a Father, not a slave toward a tyrant.

“And worketh righteousness” stresses that true faith produces righteous living. It is not enough to merely fear God; our faith must show in our actions. As James 2:17-18 teaches, faith without works is dead. This is not human merit earning salvation but the natural outflow of a genuine relationship with God.

“Is accepted with him” reassures believers that those who fear God and work righteousness are received by Him. This acceptance is not based on external markers or achievements but on the heart’s condition and a genuine relationship with God. It highlights the inclusive nature of God’s salvation, extending to people from every nation and background.

Biblical connections

Peter explicitly states in Acts 10:34 that God is no respecter of persons, and verse 35 applies that truth. The Old Testament prophet Jonah struggled with God’s mercy toward the Gentiles in Nineveh, learning that in every nation, including Nineveh, the one who fears God and works righteousness is accepted by Him. This verse does not teach that human works are the basis of salvation; rather, a genuine fear of God always produces a life of righteous action, and such a life is pleasing to Him.

Application

Acts 10:35 challenges any tendency toward exclusivism or favoritism within the church. It reminds us that God’s grace extends to all who fear Him and pursue righteousness, regardless of their background. This truth encourages believers that their devotion and obedience are seen and honored by God, and it calls us to welcome those whom God accepts.

Reflection

God’s acceptance is impartial and available to all. This verse played a significant role in the early church’s understanding of God’s inclusive plan of salvation and serves as a reminder of His impartiality and love for all humanity.