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The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 3
and obedient to, the moral law. He had not been circumcised, nor did
he take part in the sacrificial offerings; he was therefore accounted
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by the Jews as unclean. He, however, sustained the Jewish cause by
liberal donations, and was known far and near for his deeds of charity
and benevolence. His righteous life made him of good ree, among
both Jews and Gentiles.
Cornelius had not an understanding faith in Christ, although he be-
lieved the prophecies, and was looking for Messiah to come. Through
his love and obedience to God, he was brought nigh unto him, and was
prepared to receive the Saviour when he should be revealed to him.
Condemnation comes by rejecting the light given. The centurion was
a man of noble family, and held a position of high trust and honor; but
these circumstances had not tended to subvert the noble attributes of
his character. True goodness and greatness united to make him a man
of moral worth. His influence was beneficial to all with whom he was
brought in contact.
He believed in the one God, the Creator of Heaven and earth. He
revered him, acknowledged his authority, and sought counsel of him
in all the business of his life. He was faithful in his home duties as
well as in his official responsibilities, and had erected the altar of God
in his family. He dared not venture to carry out his plans, and bear
the burden of his weighty responsibilities, without the help of God;
therefore he prayed much and earnestly for that help. Faith marked all
his works, and God regarded him for the purity of his actions, and his
liberalities, and came near to him in word and Spirit.
While Cornelius was praying, God sent a celestial messenger to
him, who addressed him by name. The centurion was afraid, yet knew
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that the angel was sent of God to instruct him, and said, “What is it,
Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up
for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for
one Simon, whose surname is Peter. He lodgeth with one Simon, a
tanner, whose house is by the sea side. He shall tell thee what thou
oughtest to do.”
Here again God showed his regard for the gospel ministry, and for
his organized church. His angel was not the one to tell the story of the
cross to Cornelius. A man, subject as himself to human frailties and
temptations, was to instruct him concerning the crucified, risen and
ascended Saviour. The heavenly messenger was sent for the express