New Testament
Acts 10:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Cornelius, a Roman centurion, receives a visit from an angel.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
After the angel who spoke to him had left, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who served him regularly.
And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Cornelius, a Roman centurion, receives a visit from an angel. After the angel departs, he takes immediate action. He calls two of his trusted servants and a soldier who is known for his faithfulness. This shows Cornelius's leadership and his desire to act on the divine message he just received. He doesn't hesitate; instead, he gathers those close to him to share in this significant moment. This act of calling others reflects his commitment to follow through on what he believes is a divine instruction. It highlights the importance of community and support when responding to spiritual guidance. Cornelius is not just a passive recipient of the message; he actively engages others in his journey of faith. His actions set the stage for a pivotal moment in the early church, demonstrating how one person's obedience can impact many. Cornelius's story encourages us to be responsive and to involve others in our spiritual experiences, fostering a sense of shared purpose and mission.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 10:7 to your life
When you feel inspired to take action, don’t hesitate to involve others. Share your experiences and insights with those around you. This not only strengthens your own commitment but also encourages others to join you in your journey. Together, you can explore and grow in your faith more deeply than alone. Remember, community matters in spiritual growth and understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 10:7 teach about obedience?
Acts 10:7 illustrates the importance of obedience to divine guidance. Cornelius immediately acts on the message he receives from the angel, demonstrating that true faith involves taking action. His prompt response shows that when we receive spiritual direction, we should not delay in following through, as our actions can lead to significant outcomes in our lives and the lives of others.
Who was Cornelius in Acts 10:7?
Cornelius was a Roman centurion, a leader in the military, known for his devout faith and good deeds. His character is significant in the early church narrative as he represents a Gentile who is receptive to God's message. His actions in this verse highlight his leadership qualities and willingness to respond to divine instruction, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in the spread of Christianity.
Why did Cornelius call his servants and a soldier?
Cornelius called his servants and a soldier to involve them in the divine message he received. This act reflects his leadership and desire to share significant spiritual experiences with those close to him. By gathering trusted individuals, he demonstrates the importance of community in responding to God's guidance, emphasizing that spiritual journeys are often best undertaken with the support of others.
What can we learn about community from Acts 10:7?
Acts 10:7 teaches us that community plays a crucial role in our spiritual journeys. Cornelius's decision to involve his household and a soldier in his response to the angel's message highlights the strength found in shared faith and collective action. It encourages us to engage with others when we feel inspired, fostering a supportive environment for spiritual growth and exploration.

The Book of Acts
Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias
Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.
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