Cornelius, the Truth Seeker
J. G. Hughes. Acts 10:1-48 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,… I. HIS CHARACTER. He was no mere moralist. 1. He acted up to the light he had, which the moralist does not. 2. His morality was only the outward proof of his devoutness. 3. He did not depend upon his good works, but sought something better. 4. He embraced Christ when revealed to him. 5. He impressed others with his devoutness. II. THE HEAVENLY INTEREST IN HIM. This shown by angels, who take active part in the work of human recovery. This interest is seen — 1. In their minute acquaintance with our circumstances. Cornelius mentioned by name, and Peter, and the town, house, situation, host all indicated. 2. In their joy over repenting sinners. 3. In their ministry during the whole career of the heirs of salvation. Thus angels are our examples. III. HIS HUMAN GUIDE. Peter rather than the angel. 1. This is God's plan. Man and man only employed to prophesy, give Divine news, to be a vehicle of Christ's manifestation. 2. Salvation is a practical work. We need the living illustration of a human life. We need not only a teacher but a witness; one who can verify from experience. 3. It redounds more to the glory of God and Christianity. The greatness of the result is heightened by the feebleness of the instrument. 4. It confers honour upon and promotes unity among men. The most important work reserved for men. IV. THE OBSTACLES REMOVED OUT OF HIS WAY. There were great barriers of race, rank, culture etc., but all were broken down (J. G. Hughes.) Parallel Verses KJV: There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, WEB: Now there was a certain man in Caesarea, Cornelius by name, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment,