Acts 10:36 – “You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Peter is speaking to Cornelius and his household, explaining that the message of salvation, which was originally given to Israel, is now being shared with the Gentiles. Peter emphasizes that the “good news of peace” comes “through Jesus Christ.” This is a key moment in Peter’s sermon because he is declaring that salvation is found in Jesus alone and that Jesus is not just for the Jewish people—He is “Lord of all.”

The phrase “good news of peace” refers to the gospel message, which offers reconciliation between God and humanity. Because of sin, people are separated from God, but through Jesus’ death and resurrection, peace with God is made possible.

Peter also makes it clear that Jesus is “Lord of all.” This means He is not just the Savior of Israel, but the ruler and authority over all people, including the Gentiles. This statement would have been radical for Peter’s audience because, up until now, many Jews believed that the Messiah’s mission was primarily for Israel. But Peter, through God’s revelation, now understands that Jesus came to save all people, not just one nation.

Historical Context

At this time, the message of Jesus had been primarily spread among the Jews. The early church was made up mostly of Jewish believers who still followed many Jewish customs. However, in Acts 10, everything begins to change.

Cornelius, a Roman centurion, was a Gentile who worshiped the God of Israel but had not fully converted to Judaism. Despite his devotion, he was still considered an outsider. But God was now revealing His plan to bring Gentiles into His family through Jesus.

Peter’s speech in Acts 10 is significant because it marks the first time a Gentile household openly receives the gospel message. Peter begins by explaining that God first sent His message to Israel, which is true—the Old Testament prophecies and Jesus’ ministry began among the Jewish people. However, Peter then makes it clear that this message is now for everyone.

The phrase “peace through Jesus Christ” was particularly meaningful in the Roman world. The Roman Empire prided itself on maintaining “Pax Romana” (Roman peace), but this was a worldly peace based on military power. Peter was declaring that true peace—peace between God and humanity—can only come through Jesus.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus is the only way to true peace with God. Sin creates separation between God and people, but Jesus provides reconciliation.
2. Jesus is Lord over all nations, not just Israel. This verse confirms that salvation is available to all people, no matter their background.
3. The gospel must be shared with the world. Peter is now obeying Jesus’ command to take the message beyond Israel (Matthew 28:19).

Literary Analysis

This verse is part of Peter’s larger sermon in Acts 10, which is carefully structured to emphasize the universal nature of the gospel. Peter’s words follow a logical progression:

• “God sent the message to Israel” – acknowledging that God first worked through the Jewish people.
• “Announcing the good news of peace” – introducing the central message of the gospel.
• “Through Jesus Christ” – clarifying that salvation is found only in Him.
• “Who is Lord of all” – declaring Jesus’ authority over everyone, not just the Jews.

Peter’s use of the phrase “Lord of all” is especially significant. In a world where Caesar was called “lord,” Peter boldly proclaims that Jesus alone holds ultimate authority.

Biblical Cross-References

• Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation.” This Old Testament prophecy speaks of the gospel message bringing peace.
• John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.” Jesus Himself spoke about the true peace that He offers.
• 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.” Jesus reconciles both Jews and Gentiles into one family.
• Romans 10:12 – “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him.” Paul later confirms the truth that Peter declared in Acts 10:36.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Acts 10:36 is a powerful reminder that the gospel is for everyone. No matter our background, nationality, or past, the good news of Jesus is available to all.

It also challenges believers to see Jesus as Lord of every area of life. If He is truly “Lord of all,” then He should be Lord over our decisions, our relationships, and our priorities.

This verse also reminds us that true peace comes only through Jesus. Many people today look for peace in success, relationships, or personal achievement, but real, lasting peace is only found in Christ.

Finally, this verse encourages Christians to be bold in sharing their faith. Peter once hesitated to speak to Gentiles, but now he was boldly proclaiming Jesus as Lord of all. In the same way, we should not hesitate to share the gospel with those who need to hear it.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is clearly seen in this verse because He sent a message of peace to the world. He did not leave humanity in sin and separation, but He made a way for people to be reconciled to Him through Jesus.

This verse also shows that God’s love is not limited by national or ethnic boundaries. He does not love one group more than another—He invites all people into His family.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Everything in this verse points to Jesus:

• He is the one who brings peace between God and man.
• He is the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel.
• He is the Lord of all, ruling over every nation and every person.

This connects directly to what Jesus said in John 10:16: “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” Jesus knew from the beginning that His mission was for the whole world, and in Acts 10, Peter is finally realizing this truth.

Additionally, Jesus’ resurrection proved that He is indeed “Lord of all” (Romans 1:4). His victory over sin and death confirms His authority over all people.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean for Jesus to be “Lord of all” in your life?
2. How does this verse challenge the way you view people from different backgrounds?
3. In what ways can you be more intentional about sharing the “good news of peace” with those around you?
4. What are some ways the world tries to offer peace, and how does Jesus’ peace differ?
5. How does this verse deepen your understanding of God’s love for all people?

Acts 10:36 is a clear declaration that Jesus Christ is the only source of true peace and that He is Lord over all. This verse calls believers to trust in Him, to share the gospel boldly, and to recognize that God’s love and salvation are for people of every nation. Just as Peter finally understood that Jesus’ message was for the whole world, we too must live with the conviction that Christ is Lord of all.