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Portrait of CorneliusPortrait · Cornelius

Early Church · New Testament

Cornelius

Roman Centurion Who Welcomed the Gospel

Name meaning
Of a Roman family (Cornelii)
Name origin
Latin: Cornelius, Roman family name

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Centurion
  • God-fearing worshipper
Birthplace
Caesarea Maritima
Modern-day location
Caesarea Maritima, near modern Caesarea on Israel’s Mediterranean coast.
Family
  • Roman household; family members present for Peter’s message
First mention
Acts 10:1-2
Last mention
Acts 10:48; 11:18
Key artifacts
  • Roman armor and centurion’s staff
  • Vision of angel
  • Household gathering

Key verses

  • “A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people.”

    Acts 10:2

  • “Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:”

    Acts 10:34

  • “the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.”

    Acts 10:44

Biography

Early Life

Cornelius was a Roman centurion in Caesarea, devout and generous, who prayed regularly and feared God with his household.

Defining Biblical Moments

An angel directed him to send for Peter. As Peter preached, the Holy Spirit came upon Cornelius and his household, marking the welcome of Gentiles into the church.

Strengths

Cornelius is portrayed as prayerful, generous, receptive, and willing to act on divine direction.

Weaknesses & Lessons

His story challenges inherited boundaries and reminds readers that God’s welcome can exceed human expectations.

Life Lessons for Today

His story challenges inherited boundaries and reminds readers that God’s welcome can exceed human expectations.

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Cornelius appears in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #47 in The Life of Jesus & The Early Church

The Life of Jesus & The Early Church front cover

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