So, Peter asks, “I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?” In verses 31-32, Cornelius personally shares his vision and God’s instructions. He concludes with a direct comment found in today’s verse. 

What a strange moment. Cornelius had no idea what God wanted Peter to say. Until that moment, Peter did not know what he was to say, however, it became clear to him that he was to share the gospel.

He began by saying in verse 34, “Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons” no favoritism. In “every nation” those individuals like Cornelius who seek after God will be “accepted with Him.” 

Here is the key. Cornelius had obviously forsaken the false gods of Rome. He knew there was the one true God of the Jews. He may have even considered becoming a Jewish proselyte. Yet, he did not know Christ.

Peter therefore gave a splendid account of the gospel in verses 36-43. Peter asked in verse 47, “Can any man forbid water that these should not be baptized…?” 

As an outward sign of their inward faith and in obedience to the testimony of Christ, they were then “baptized in the name of the Lord.”

Peter stayed “certain days” to teach and disciple them. Please understand, this is a first. What a great example to us that we are to reach people who are not like us!