Tonight we would like to examine the question, “When Was Cornelius Saved?” in detail. If we can study God’s Word and determine when this devout Gentile was saved, then we will know when salvation occurs for all men and women.

Was Cornelius saved prior to Peter’s arrival?

No. Peter was sent to teach him (Acts 10:5-8, 32-33, 11:13-14)

The Gospel Doesn’t Cause Anyone To Be Lost, Rather Saves (Romans 6:23; 1:16)         

Christians Are God’s Instruments For Teaching The Lost (Acts 10:3, 9-11; 8:26-35)

Did a prayer save Cornelius?

Notice this example of a sinner’s prayer: "Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."

Again we ask, was Cornelius saved when He Prayed?

NO! He prayed, but not a prayer like this one (Acts 10:1-5, 30-33; 9:8-12)

When Cornelius Was Baptized With The Holy Spirit?

NO! The Holy Spirit falling on them was to convince Jewish believers that Gentiles Should Be accepted and taught  (Acts 10:34-35, 44-46; 11:15-18)

After Cornelius Was Baptized In Water & the Lord’s Name?

YES! Result: Remission Of Sins (Acts 10:47-48; 2:38; 22:16)

If you in our audience want to be saved from your sins like Cornelius, you will need to heed the words by which you and your household will be saved (Acts 11:14). God could have saved Cornelius through a sinner’s prayer, or simply by Cornelius accepting Jesus into his heart, or when the Holy Spirit came upon him and his household. But God’s way is to provide salvation to those who hear His Word and do what it says. Peter commanded Cornelius and his household to be baptized in the name of the Lord. There was no reluctance or resistance to this command. These all had come to hear what Peter had to say and were willing to obey because they knew this Word was from God. If you are not a Christian, why not repent of your sins and be baptized for the remission of your sins? Then you can enjoy being saved from your sins and can look forward to an eternity in Heaven. It is our desire that you have listened tonight and will obey what the Lord has commanded in His Word! We also hope to see you next time on “Speaking The Truth In Love”.