Introduction

The two visions bring Cornelius and Peter together. (a) Cornelius, a centurion in Caesarea, received a message from an angel in a vision. He was instructed to send men to Joppa to invite Peter, who was staying at the house of Simon the tanner. (b) The vision Peter saw was meant to prepare him for what was about to happen. At that time, it was taboo for Jews to visit the homes of Gentiles.

The timing of the vision

“On the next day, as they were on their way and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray.” (1) “The next day” refers to the day after Cornelius had his vision and the second day of the journey for Cornelius’ messengers. As the messengers were nearing the city, Peter went up on the rooftop. (2) Houses in Palestine at that time had rooftops. Wooden beams were laid out, and a mixture of mud and straw was placed on top. Once the mud hardened, it formed a solid floor. The rooftop was an ideal place for solitude. (3) The text mentions “around the sixth hour” (noon), but the Jewish prayer times were at 9 am and 3 pm. Noon was a time for voluntary prayer. It is likely that Peter went to the rooftop to escape the odors and breathe the sea breeze while praying. “But he became hungry and wanted to eat; but while they were making preparations, he fell into a trance.” (1) Feeling hungry while praying is an experience many can relate to. At that exact time, a meal was being prepared downstairs. The midday meal was typically the most lavish. The delicious smells must have wafted up from below. (2) “He fell into a trance,” which is a half-conscious state. (3) The term “trance” in Greek is “ekstasis,” which an English word “ecstasy” is driven from. God intended to use Peter’s hunger to teach him a spiritual lesson through food. God controls daily events and even their timing. Nothing happens without God’s permission. For those who believe in God, there are no coincidences. Let us remember this and be encouraged.