Cornelius
The Roman Centurion Who Received the Holy Spirit
Name Information
- Meaning: "Horn" (Latin origin)
- Language of Origin: Latin
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Cornelius was a Roman centurion stationed in Caesarea. A God-fearing Gentile known for prayer and generosity, he received a vision from God that led to the apostle Peter preaching the Gospel to him. As he and his household believed, the Holy Spirit came upon them — the first recorded Gentile conversion in Acts. Cornelius’s story confirms that salvation through Christ is for all people, not just Jews.
⏰ 1st century AD
Roles
- God-fearer
- Centurion
- Gentile Convert
Story
Known for his devotion, prayer, and charity toward the poor.
Sent men to find Peter after receiving a vision from God.
Peter, after a vision of his own, agreed to visit Cornelius’s home.
As Peter preached the Gospel, the Holy Spirit fell on Cornelius’s household.
They were baptized — marking the turning point in the church’s Gentile mission.
Spiritual Significance
- A Roman officer who feared God and prayed regularly.
- Received an angelic visitation instructing him to call for Peter.
- First Gentile in Acts to receive the Holy Spirit and baptism.
- His conversion confirmed that the Gospel was for the nations.
- His story shifted the church toward full Gentile inclusion (Acts 11:18).
Christ Connection
Cornelius’s conversion affirms that Jesus came to save not just Jews but Gentiles.
His story fulfills God’s promise to bless all nations through Christ (Genesis 12:3).
Peter’s message centered on the crucified and risen Christ — and all who believe in Him receive forgiveness.
What We Can Learn
- God hears the prayers of sincere seekers, even before they fully know Him.
- The Gospel breaks down every ethnic and cultural barrier.
- The Holy Spirit confirms God's inclusive plan of salvation.
- Obedience opens the door for divine encounters.
Memory Verses
Truly I understand that God shows no partiality.
— Acts 10:34
Key Passages
- Acts 10–11
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