Acts 10:19
While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee.
Original Language Analysis
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Πέτρου
Peter
G4074
Πέτρου
Peter
Strong's:
G4074
Word #:
3 of 16
a (piece of) rock (larger than g3037); as a name, petrus, an apostle
περὶ
on
G4012
περὶ
on
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
5 of 16
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὁράματος
the vision
G3705
ὁράματος
the vision
Strong's:
G3705
Word #:
7 of 16
something gazed at, i.e., a spectacle (especially supernatural)
αὐτῷ
unto him
G846
αὐτῷ
unto him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 16
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεῦμα
the Spirit
G4151
πνεῦμα
the Spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
11 of 16
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
Cross References
Acts 8:29Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.Acts 11:12And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:Acts 21:4And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.Acts 13:2As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.1 Corinthians 12:11But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.John 16:13Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.1 Timothy 4:1Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
Historical Context
This occurred in Joppa circa AD 40-41 at the house of Simon the tanner. The three men had traveled from Caesarea (30+ miles) at Cornelius's direction following his angelic vision. God was working simultaneously in both Jew and Gentile to bring them together.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Spirit's direct guidance demonstrate His personal involvement in the church's mission?
- What does the timing of the vision and the visitors teach about God's providence?
- Why was this moment crucial in salvation history and the church's understanding of the gospel?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
While Peter thought on the vision of clean and unclean animals, 'the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee.' The Spirit's direct speech shows His personal agency in guiding the church. The timing was perfect - while Peter pondered the vision's meaning, messengers from Cornelius arrived. Reformed theology sees God's providence synchronizing Peter's preparation with the Gentiles' approach. The Spirit orchestrated both the vision and the visitors to prepare Peter for this watershed moment in salvation history - the gospel going officially to Gentiles.