New Testament
Acts 10:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They said, "Cornelius the centurion, a righteous man who fears God and is well spoken of by the entire Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say."
Compare translations
And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.
What Acts 10:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about Cornelius, a Roman centurion known for his righteousness and respect for God. He was well-regarded by the Jewish community, which was significant given the cultural tensions of the time. An angel from God instructed him to invite Peter to his home. This moment is pivotal because it shows how God reaches out to people from different backgrounds. Cornelius's openness to divine guidance highlights the importance of being receptive to God's messages. His story illustrates that faith can transcend cultural barriers and that God values those who seek Him sincerely. This encounter sets the stage for a broader understanding of faith that includes all people, not just a select few. It reminds us that God sees the heart and intentions of individuals, regardless of their background or status. Cornelius's actions demonstrate that genuine faith can lead to transformative experiences and connections with others, paving the way for greater understanding and unity.
How to apply Acts 10:22 to your life
Consider how you can be open to God's guidance in your life. Reflect on your own relationships with people from different backgrounds. Embrace opportunities to connect with others, as you never know how God might be working through those interactions to bring about understanding and unity. Be a bridge in your community, fostering inclusivity and respect for all.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10:17–48)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 10:22
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 10:22
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 10:22 mean?
Acts 10:22 describes Cornelius, a Roman centurion, as a righteous man who fears God and is respected by the Jewish community. The verse highlights how God communicates with people from different backgrounds, as an angel instructed Cornelius to invite Peter to his home.
What is the significance of Cornelius in Acts 10:22?
Cornelius is significant because he represents a Gentile who is open to God's guidance, breaking cultural barriers. His story illustrates that faith and righteousness are recognized by God, regardless of one's background.
How does Acts 10:22 relate to the theme of divine guidance?
Acts 10:22 shows divine guidance through the angel's instruction to Cornelius, emphasizing that God actively directs those who seek Him. This moment highlights the importance of being receptive to God's messages in our lives.
What cultural barriers are addressed in Acts 10:22?
Acts 10:22 addresses cultural barriers by showcasing a Roman centurion, Cornelius, who is respected by Jews. This encounter signifies that God's message of faith and righteousness transcends cultural and ethnic divisions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.