Acts 10

It is good to have people who are role models. Children should have parents that they admire. It is always easier to work hard for a boss that we respect. Every church deserves a pastor that is a good example to his fellow disciples. We all need role models.

Unfortunately, too many of the world’s role models come from the world, and not from God’s people. This will not change until Christians begin to take it upon themselves to live lives that are bold and courageous. In the text that we are reading in Acts, we see two examples of role models. There is the example of Cornelius and the example of Peter, and both are excellent.

Cornelius was a Centurion, which is the equivalent to the rank of Captain in today’s U.S. military. He was a God-fearing righteous man, and he did not hide his faith from his family, his friends or from his soldiers. His example inspired members of his family; like him, they were devout and God-fearing. When he sent for Peter, he sent one of his soldiers along with his servants. His soldier was also a devout man. As he prepared for Peter’s arrival, not only his family but also his close friends gathered to hear the word of God. Without question, Cornelius was someone people respected; he was a role model.

Cornelius never met Peter, but because Peter had the angel of the Lord’s endorsement, Cornelius automatically placed him on a pedestal. It is natural for us to do that with exceptional people. Peter was exceptional; as one of the original 12 disciples, he was a part of all that Christ had done and was doing. When Peter arrived, Cornelius fell at his feet in reverence. Peter would have none of it and said “Stand up. I am only a man myself.”

Like Peter, all Christians are spiritual role models, but we must never forget that we are human. Only by following Jesus can we be an example worth following.