Preparing to be Saved

Day 166: Acts 10:1-23

“He was a devout, God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God.” - ‭‭Acts‬ ‭10:2‬ ‭NLT‬‬

In the past four days, we’ve seen Luke introduce us to three unlikely disciples of Jesus: the African (chapter 8), the Persecutor (chapter 9), and the Commander (today’s reading).

Being of the profession of those who followed through on the crucifixion of Jesus, this may make Cornelius the most unlikely of the three to trust Jesus for salvation. Yet, when we see how he was living his life, it is evident that he was preparing himself for this moment. What better person could there have been chosen than this man to be the first non-Jew to confess Jesus as Lord and Savior?

This scene shows us that it takes more than good works to be saved, but it also shows us that good works can prepare someone to encounter the One who did the greatest work on the cross.

Good people (in the eyes of others) can never be good enough to enter into eternal life. All of us have sinned, and therefore all of us need regeneration.

There was hope for Cornelius. There is hope for the nations (Gentiles)! Just like we were challenged this week by the evangelistic efforts of Philip and Ananias, now we see Peter stepping up to share the Gospel. Can we add your name to the list of those who are brave enough to share the message of Jesus with others?

“For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” - Titus 3:3–7 (ESV)