Gleanings from Acts 10 - 19

Cornelius was a devout man who feared God, gave generously to the people, and prayed continually. Yet, despite his good works and sincere devotion, he still needed to hear and believe the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our good works may demonstrate a heart that is seeking God, but they cannot take the place of the finished work of Christ. The gospel must still be preached and believed. The jailer came trembling before them and asked, sirs, what must I do to be saved? This is striking because the question came before Paul had given him an explanation of the gospel. Paul and Silas then preached Christ to him and his household, and they believed. Our lives, especially in difficult circumstances, can create opportunities for the gospel. People may first be drawn by what they see in us, but they must ultimately hear and believe the gospel of Jesus Christ. The miracles demonstrated the power of God accompanying the ministry of the gospel. They were not a replacement for the gospel, but a confirmation of God's work through the preaching of Christ. The gospel is not merely a message of words; it is the power of God at work. God can demonstrate His power in extraordinary ways to advance the message of Christ and bring people to faith. The gospel breaks barriers of race, culture, status, and background. We should not decide who is “worthy” of hearing the gospel.