Acts 9:32-10:48: Salvation for Every Nation

For more context before you begin studying, read this introduction to the book of Acts.

Once the Berlin Wall seemed impenetrable, and communism powerful and indestructible. For seventy years Christians wondered if Christmas would ever be openly celebrated in Russia. Then, dramatically, the wall fell. Communism collapsed. Nations that had been closed to the gospel for years began to welcome Christians, their help and their message with open arms. The historic breakthrough was like the one the early Christians experienced in this passage. A seemingly impenetrable spiritual wall was broken down. In both situations we see that from God's perspective there is always the potential for reaching every person in all the corners of the world with the wonderful news of Jesus Christ.

Warming Up to God

Think of an impossible feat that you have seen God accomplish. Thank him and allow him to show you again that he truly is almighty.

Read Acts 9:32-10:48

Discovering the Word

• How is God's power demonstrated in 9:32-43?
• This is the first time Peter has been involved in raising someone from the dead. How might this prepare him for what happens in chapter 10?
• How did God prepare Cornelius for Peter (10:1-8)?
• In what ways did God prepare Peter for Cornelius (10:9-33)?
• What evidence is there that Cornelius expected God to work (10:24-26)?

Applying the Word

• What lessons do we learn from Cornelius' life?
• In summary, how do you see God's purpose, as stated in Acts 1:8, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth," being fulfilled in this passage?
• In what ways could you grow in relating to people of other cultures and races?

Responding in Prayer

Ask God to use your experiences in life and knowledge of him to bring others to Christ.