New Testament
Acts 10:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Peter entered, Cornelius met him, fell down at his feet, and worshiped him.
Compare translations
And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.
What Acts 10:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Peter arrives at Cornelius's home, and Cornelius is overwhelmed with respect and reverence. He meets Peter at the door, showing his deep admiration by falling at Peter's feet. This act of worship highlights Cornelius's recognition of Peter's authority and the significance of his message. However, Peter quickly responds, indicating that he is just a man and should not be worshiped. This interaction emphasizes the importance of humility and the proper perspective on leadership. Cornelius, a Gentile, breaking cultural barriers to honor Peter, signifies a pivotal moment in the early church. It shows that God's message is for everyone, regardless of their background. This encounter sets the stage for a transformative experience for both men, as they learn from each other and grow in faith. It reminds us that true worship belongs to God alone, and we should honor others without elevating them to a divine status. This moment is a powerful reminder of the humility we should carry in our relationships.
How to apply Acts 10:25 to your life
When you meet someone you admire, remember to show respect without losing sight of their humanity. Everyone deserves honor, but true worship belongs to God. Approach relationships with humility, recognizing that we are all equal in the eyes of God. Celebrate the diversity of faith and backgrounds in your community, fostering understanding and connection among all people. Be open to learning from others, just as Peter and Cornelius did.
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 10:25
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 10:25
Related Bible verses
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 10:25 mean?
Acts 10:25 describes the moment when Cornelius, a Gentile, shows deep respect for Peter by falling at his feet. This act signifies Cornelius's recognition of Peter's authority and the importance of his message, while Peter emphasizes that worship should be directed to God alone.
What is the significance of Cornelius worshiping Peter in Acts 10:25?
Cornelius worshiping Peter highlights the breaking of cultural barriers, as a Gentile honors a Jewish leader. It underscores the idea that God's message is for everyone, regardless of background, and sets the stage for a transformative relationship between the two men.
What does the act of falling at someone's feet mean in Acts 10:25?
Falling at someone's feet, as Cornelius did with Peter, is a gesture of deep respect and reverence. It indicates admiration and acknowledgment of the person's authority, but in this context, it also serves as a reminder that true worship belongs to God.
How does Acts 10:25 relate to humility?
Acts 10:25 illustrates humility through Peter's response to Cornelius. Peter quickly redirects the worship back to God, demonstrating that even leaders should remain humble and recognize their humanity, reinforcing the idea that no one should be elevated to a divine status.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.