Acts 10:32 – “Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the house of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.”
Extended Explanation
This verse is part of Cornelius’ retelling of the vision he received from God. In the vision, an angel instructed Cornelius to send men to Joppa to find Peter, who was staying at the house of a man named Simon, a tanner. The angel gave specific instructions about where Peter could be found, making it clear that God had orchestrated this meeting.
This moment is significant because it shows that Cornelius was not left to figure things out on his own—God was guiding him step by step. Cornelius had been praying and seeking God, and now God was responding by directing him to Peter, who would share the gospel with him.
Another key detail is that Peter was staying at the home of Simon the tanner. Tanners worked with animal hides, a job that often made them ceremonially unclean according to Jewish customs. This shows that Peter was already beginning to break away from traditional Jewish restrictions—something that prepared him for the even bigger step of entering a Gentile’s home.
Historical Context
At this time, the divide between Jews and Gentiles was strong. Most Jews believed that in order for a Gentile to have a relationship with God, they needed to convert to Judaism, follow Jewish laws, and adopt Jewish customs. However, God was revealing something new—salvation through Jesus Christ was for everyone, not just the Jewish people.
Cornelius was a Roman centurion—a high-ranking officer in the Roman army. Though he was a Gentile, he was described as “God-fearing” (Acts 10:2), meaning he worshiped the God of Israel and lived a moral life. He prayed regularly and gave to the poor, but he had not yet heard the full gospel of Jesus.
Peter, on the other hand, was a Jewish disciple of Jesus. He had been raised with the belief that Jews should not associate closely with Gentiles. But God was preparing Peter to change his perspective. By staying with Simon the tanner—a man involved in an “unclean” profession—Peter was already taking a step toward a broader understanding of God’s plan.
Theological Implications
- God is in control of the details. The angel didn’t just tell Cornelius to look for a preacher—he gave exact instructions on where to find Peter. This shows that God is actively involved in leading people to the truth.
- God prepares both the messenger and the receiver. While Cornelius was being told to send for Peter, God was also preparing Peter through a vision (Acts 10:9-16). God works on both sides to accomplish His purposes.
- God calls people from all backgrounds to be part of His kingdom. Cornelius was a Gentile, and Peter was a Jew, yet God was bringing them together to show that salvation was for everyone.
Literary Analysis
This verse follows a pattern of divine guidance seen throughout Acts. In multiple places, God directs people step by step to accomplish His will (Acts 8:26-29, Acts 16:9-10).
The phrase “Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter” repeats the exact instructions given earlier in Acts 10:5-6. This repetition emphasizes the precision of God’s plan—every detail was arranged according to His purpose.
The mention of Peter staying with Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea adds a layer of meaning. Tanners worked with dead animals, something that Jewish law considered unclean (Leviticus 11:39-40). This small detail suggests that Peter was already beginning to let go of some traditional Jewish restrictions, making him more open to what God was about to reveal.
Biblical Cross-References
- Acts 10:5-6 – The original command from the angel to Cornelius, showing that God’s message remained consistent.
- Acts 8:26-29 – God directed Philip to meet the Ethiopian eunuch, similar to how He guided Cornelius to Peter.
- Acts 16:9-10 – Paul received a vision directing him to preach in Macedonia, showing that God often gives clear guidance.
- Ephesians 2:14 – “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” This verse connects with Acts 10, as God was breaking down the division between Jews and Gentiles.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Acts 10:32 reminds believers that God is actively working in people’s lives to bring them to the truth. Just as He arranged for Cornelius and Peter to meet, He is still leading people to the gospel today.
It also encourages Christians to be sensitive to God’s leading. Cornelius obeyed the vision immediately, sending men to find Peter. Today, when God prompts us to take action—whether to share our faith, reach out to someone in need, or step outside our comfort zone—we should be ready to obey.
Additionally, this verse challenges us to break down barriers. Peter had to overcome his Jewish background in order to preach to Cornelius. Today, believers are called to share the gospel with all people, regardless of race, background, or status.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He personally guided Cornelius. Instead of leaving him to wonder or struggle to find the truth on his own, God sent an angel with clear instructions.
This verse also shows that God actively seeks people who are seeking Him. Cornelius was praying, and God answered him. This is a reminder that God does not ignore those who sincerely desire to know Him (Jeremiah 29:13).
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus often reached out to those whom society considered unworthy. He healed Gentiles (Matthew 8:5-13), spoke with a Samaritan woman (John 4:9-10), and praised the faith of non-Jews (Matthew 15:21-28). Peter’s visit to Cornelius is a continuation of Jesus’ mission—to bring salvation to all people.
Jesus Himself said in John 10:16, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also.” Acts 10 is a fulfillment of this statement, as the gospel begins to reach the Gentiles.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to trust that God is in control of the details of your life?
- Are there people in your life who are seeking God but need guidance? How can you be part of God’s plan to lead them to Jesus?
- Peter had to step out of his comfort zone to visit Cornelius. Are there any personal barriers that keep you from sharing your faith with certain people?
- How can you be more sensitive to God’s leading in your daily life?
- How does this passage challenge you to be more open to sharing the gospel with people from different backgrounds?
Acts 10:32 is a powerful reminder that God is at work, arranging divine appointments to bring people to the truth. It calls every believer to be ready, obedient, and open to the ways God leads. Just as Peter was sent to Cornelius, we are sent into the world to share the message of Jesus with those who are searching for Him.