Then Peter opened his mouth and said: ”In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. (35) But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. (36) The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ – He is Lord of all – (37) that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: (38) how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

Acts of the Apostles was written by Luke; historian, physician, traveling companion of the apostle Paul- and Gentile. To understand our verses today we must understand their context. An event entirely new to the Jewish mind tells the reader that NOW salvation is not based on national identity or good works. Gentiles are brought directly into relationship with God apart from becoming Jews which changed the history of the world. This inclusion is by Gods grace and centers on the person and work of Christ Jesus. Jesus is Lord of ALL.

There are three lengthily references in Acts given to the conversion of a Gentile outside of becoming a Jew. The Gentile, Cornelius, was a Roman centurion of the Italian army, who was guarding the city of Caesarea. Cornelius was a godly man who instructed his family and household in worship of God. There is no indication in the verses that he was familiar with the gospel. God sent a vision to Cornelius that he should send for a man named Peter who was living in Joppa. This Cornelius did directly. Meanwhile in Joppa, Peter was also sent a vision telling him first that there is no further difference between clean and unclean foods so there is no further disagreement between Jew and Gentile – the wall of separation was removed. God is God over all. Then Peter was commanded to come to Cornelius accompanied by Cornelius’s men who were at the door. Peter responded to Gods command and our verses today are the beginning of his address to Cornelius and his household. Peter had not finished his words when the conversion occurred and all who heard came to salvation in faith in Christ. Peter’s words as recorded here by Luke are the most comprehensive review of Jesus’ ministry found in any speech in Acts of the Apostles.

Peter’s sermon is the first sermon in Acts addressed to a Gentile audience. It is a message of peace in Christ. It is a message that God’s revelation, sent to the Jews, that all men/women now stand and fall by the judgment of God alone. It is a message that Jesus Christ is Lord of all – and most importantly, Jesus Christ is available to all.