New Testament
Acts 10:31
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"He said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your charitable giving has been remembered before God.'"
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And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.
What Acts 10:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, God acknowledges Cornelius, a Roman centurion, showing that He listens to the prayers of all people, regardless of their background. Cornelius had been praying and giving to those in need, and God took notice. This highlights the importance of sincere prayer and acts of kindness. God values our intentions and actions, and He remembers them. Cornelius's faithfulness in seeking God and helping others did not go unnoticed. This passage reassures us that our efforts to connect with God and support those around us matter deeply. It encourages us to be persistent in our prayers and generous in our giving, knowing that God sees and appreciates our hearts. Ultimately, it reminds us that God is attentive to our needs and the needs of others, and He responds in His perfect timing. Cornelius's story is a powerful reminder that everyone is significant in God's eyes, and our actions can lead to divine encounters and blessings in our lives and the lives of others.
How to apply Acts 10:31 to your life
Take time to reflect on your own prayers and acts of kindness. Consider how you can be more intentional in both areas. Remember that God sees your efforts, and they can lead to meaningful changes in your life and the lives of others. Stay committed to being generous and prayerful, trusting that God is listening and responding to you. Your actions matter to Him and can make a difference in the world around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10:17–48)
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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.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Acts 10:31
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 10:31 mean?
Acts 10:31 means that God acknowledges Cornelius's prayers and charitable actions. It shows that God listens to everyone, regardless of their background, and values sincere prayer and kindness.
What is the significance of prayer in Acts 10:31?
The significance of prayer in Acts 10:31 is that it demonstrates God's attentiveness to the prayers of individuals. It reassures believers that their prayers are heard and can lead to divine responses.
What does 'charitable giving' refer to in Acts 10:31?
'Charitable giving' in Acts 10:31 refers to Cornelius's acts of kindness and generosity towards those in need. It highlights the importance of helping others as a way to connect with God.
How does Acts 10:31 encourage believers?
Acts 10:31 encourages believers by reminding them that their prayers and acts of kindness are valued by God. It motivates them to be persistent in prayer and generous in giving.
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