Cornelius’ answer

Cornelius answered, “Four days ago to this hour, I was praying in my house during the ninth hour; and behold, a man stood before me in shining clothing, and he said ‘… send some men to Joppa and invite Simon, who is also called Peter …’” (1) Cornelius testified about his experience. Four days ago, at this very hour refers to three in the afternoon. (2) An angel (a man in shining clothes) stood before him and spoke. (a) Your prayer has been heard. (b) Your acts of charity have been remembered before God. (c) Therefore, send men to Joppa and summon Simon. (d) His name is also called Peter. (e) He is staying at the house of Simon the tanner by the sea. Cornelius continued, “So I sent men to you immediately, and you have been kind enough to come. Now then, we are all here present before God to hear everything that you have been commanded by the Lord.” (1) Cornelius explained that he sent for Peter because the angel had instructed him to do so. (2) He expressed his gratitude for Peter crossing religious and cultural boundaries to come. Cornelius was well aware of the wall that existed between Jews and Gentiles. (3) He acknowledged that Peter brought a message from God. (a) The Greek verb for “commanded” is “prostasso,” a military term for giving orders. (b) They were ready to listen to what God had commanded Peter. (c) They were the perfect audience, prepared by God. Finally, let’s look at the four steps to making a decision. (1) Know God’s will. Peter understood God’s will through a vision. In our case, we can know God’s will through (a) the Holy Spirit and (b) the Word of God. (2) Examine your motives. It is essential to discern whether our desire aligns with God’s will. (3) Engage your willpower. The knowledge, emotions, and will are interconnected. (a) The knowledge’s demands are satisfied by knowing God’s will. The emotion’s demands are satisfied by the desire to do God’s will. The will begins to function when the knowledge is supported by emotions. (4) Rely on God’s grace. The most difficult is to choose the most challenging path. God knows our past, present, and future. Therefore, we must make decisions trusting in God’s grace. God’s grace provides the strength to support us daily.