The announcement of an angel

“About the ninth hour of the day he clearly saw in a vision an angel of God who had just come in and said to him, ‘Cornelius!’” (1) The ninth hour (three in the afternoon) is the Jewish hour of prayer. (a) Nine in the morning and three in the afternoon were the times for offering sacrifices at the temple. (b) At that time, Cornelius was praying. (2) In a vision, Cornelius saw an angel sent by God with a message. Later, he testified, “a man stood before me in shining clothing” (Acts 10:30). He saw the angel clearly, not vaguely. (3) The angel called him by name, “Cornelius.” God knew Cornelius’ name, and the angel sent by God knew it as well. God knows our names. What a blessing that is. “And he looked at him intently and became terrified, and said, ‘What is it, Lord?’ And he said to him, ‘Your prayers and charitable gifts have ascended as a memorial offering before God.’” (1) Cornelius, a seasoned warrior, became frightened. (a) This likely reflects a sense of awe towards God. He understood that the one standing before him was an angel sent by God. (b) He responded, “What is it, Lord?” The word “Lord” (“Kurios” in Greek) likely means “sir” in this context, as a humble response. (2) The angel answered: (a) Cornelius’ prayers and alms are genuine. (b) Therefore, they are remembered by God. (3) If it is not genuine, it cannot be pleasing to God. Matthew 26:13 says (words of the Lord Jesus regarding Mary of Bethany), “Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.” “Now dispatch some men to Joppa and send for a man named Simon, who is also called Peter.” (1) The angel’s instructions were as follows: (a) Send messengers to Joppa. (b) Summon a man named Simon, who is also called Peter. This information helps to distinguish him from Simon the tanner. (c) This man is staying at the house of Simon the tanner. “Whose house is by the sea,” indicates that it is located outside the town. God answered Cornelius, who was earnestly seeking Him. Genuine faith and prayer are remembered by God.