Acts 10:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 10:35
35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
Chapter Context
Acts 10 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, righteousness, holiness. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 10:35
35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
Analysis
Peter continued: 'But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.' This doesn't teach salvation by works but describes the character of genuine faith - it produces godly fear and righteous works. The Reformed understanding sees this as evidence of regeneration, not the basis of acceptance. True faith, wherever found, manifests in fear of God and righteous living. The phrase 'in every nation' establishes the gospel's universal scope - God saves His elect from all peoples through faith in Christ.
Historical Context
Cornelius exemplified this principle - a Gentile who feared God and did righteous acts (Acts 10:2), yet still needed the gospel (Acts 11:14). His fear and works didn't save him but demonstrated God's preparatory work in his heart, leading to hearing and believing the gospel.
Reflection
- How does genuine saving faith manifest in godly fear and righteous works?
- What is the relationship between fearing God and being accepted by Him?
- How do we balance affirming salvation by grace alone while acknowledging that true faith produces works?
Word Studies
- Righteous: δίκαιος (Dikaios) G1343 - Righteous, just
Cross-References
- Righteousness: 1 John 2:29
- Parallel theme: Acts 9:31, 10:2, 15:9, Proverbs 1:7, 16:6, Ecclesiastes 12:13