Acts 11:14

Acts 11:14

This verse contains Cornelius’s report of the angel’s instruction about Peter: he “shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.” The focus is word-centered salvation: not merely a feeling or experience, but the specific content of the gospel that leads to salvation. It highlights the catalytic role of Peter’s teaching in Cornelius’s household. The emphasis on “all thy house” signals household salvation and the communal scope of the gospel, foreshadowing the church’s mission to households and communities, not only individuals. The broader context is the transition from vision to proclamation—Peter is about to declare the gospel that saves.

This verse underscores the sufficiency of the gospel message for salvation. It also emphasizes the evangelical mission of the apostles—bringing the good news to households and communities. It reinforces the unity of revelation (angelic command) with proclamation (Peter’s words). The message is that God intends to save people through hearing and responding to the gospel.

Practical takeaway: salvation comes through hearing and responding to the gospel. In your life, ensure you’re sharing clear gospel-centered words with others—explain who Jesus is, what he did, and how to respond in faith. Seek opportunities to explain salvation in everyday conversations, especially with those in your “household” sphere—family, roommates, coworkers. This verse invites you to be intentional about verbal witness, combining relational trust with clear content.

Cross-References: Romans 10:14-17; 1 Corinthians 1:21; Ephesians 1:13; Colossians 1:5