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Book of Acts - Chapter 10 - Verse 3

10:3
He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.

Meaning

During this biblical verse, Cornelius, a devout man who feared God, receives a vision from an angel of God. This vision occurs around the ninth hour, which is around 3:00 in the afternoon. The timing of the vision is significant as the ninth hour was considered a time for prayer by devout Jews. The vision serves as a divine message for Cornelius, indicating that God is aware of him and his faithfulness. The appearance of the angel symbolizes God's intervention in Cornelius's life and foreshadows the important role Cornelius will play in the spread of Christianity. This vision ultimately leads Cornelius to send for Peter, a disciple of Jesus, marking a pivotal moment in the Acts of the Apostles. The verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and his ability to communicate with his followers through supernatural means.

Theological Overview

Interpreting the verse where Cornelius receives a vision from an angel of God in the ninth hour of the day brings forth fascinating theological insights. The mention of the angel signifies a divine message being delivered to Cornelius, a Roman centurion who was seeking God. The ninth hour holds significance in Jewish culture as it was a customary time for prayer. This timing may symbolize the moment when Cornelius' prayers were answered, emphasizing God's perfect timing in revealing His plan to him. The naming of Cornelius by the angel underscores the personal nature of God's interaction with individuals, showing His care and attention to each person. Word studies on this verse could explore the cultural context of encountering angels and the significance of the name Cornelius, shedding light on the deeper meaning behind this pivotal moment in Cornelius' spiritual journey.

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