“Call if you will, but who will answer you?(A)
    To which of the holy ones(B) will you turn?
Resentment(C) kills a fool,
    and envy slays the simple.(D)
I myself have seen(E) a fool taking root,(F)
    but suddenly(G) his house was cursed.(H)
His children(I) are far from safety,(J)
    crushed in court(K) without a defender.(L)
The hungry consume his harvest,(M)
    taking it even from among thorns,
    and the thirsty pant after his wealth.
For hardship does not spring from the soil,
    nor does trouble sprout from the ground.(N)
Yet man is born to trouble(O)
    as surely as sparks fly upward.

“But if I were you, I would appeal to God;
    I would lay my cause before him.(P)
He performs wonders(Q) that cannot be fathomed,(R)
    miracles that cannot be counted.(S)
10 He provides rain for the earth;(T)
    he sends water on the countryside.(U)
11 The lowly he sets on high,(V)
    and those who mourn(W) are lifted(X) to safety.
12 He thwarts the plans(Y) of the crafty,
    so that their hands achieve no success.(Z)
13 He catches the wise(AA) in their craftiness,(AB)
    and the schemes of the wily are swept away.(AC)
14 Darkness(AD) comes upon them in the daytime;
    at noon they grope as in the night.(AE)
15 He saves the needy(AF) from the sword in their mouth;
    he saves them from the clutches of the powerful.(AG)
16 So the poor(AH) have hope,
    and injustice shuts its mouth.(AI)

17 “Blessed is the one whom God corrects;(AJ)
    so do not despise the discipline(AK) of the Almighty.[a](AL)
18 For he wounds, but he also binds up;(AM)
    he injures, but his hands also heal.(AN)
19 From six calamities he will rescue(AO) you;
    in seven no harm will touch you.(AP)
20 In famine(AQ) he will deliver you from death,
    and in battle from the stroke of the sword.(AR)
21 You will be protected from the lash of the tongue,(AS)
    and need not fear(AT) when destruction comes.(AU)
22 You will laugh(AV) at destruction and famine,(AW)
    and need not fear the wild animals.(AX)
23 For you will have a covenant(AY) with the stones(AZ) of the field,
    and the wild animals will be at peace with you.(BA)
24 You will know that your tent is secure;(BB)
    you will take stock of your property and find nothing missing.(BC)
25 You will know that your children will be many,(BD)
    and your descendants like the grass of the earth.(BE)
26 You will come to the grave in full vigor,(BF)
    like sheaves gathered in season.(BG)

27 “We have examined this, and it is true.
    So hear it(BH) and apply it to yourself.”(BI)

Footnotes

  1. Job 5:17 Hebrew Shaddai; here and throughout Job

Call now, if there be any that will answer thee; and to which of the saints wilt thou turn?

For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.

I have seen the foolish taking root: but suddenly I cursed his habitation.

His children are far from safety, and they are crushed in the gate, neither is there any to deliver them.

Whose harvest the hungry eateth up, and taketh it even out of the thorns, and the robber swalloweth up their substance.

Although affliction cometh not forth of the dust, neither doth trouble spring out of the ground;

Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward.

I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause:

Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number:

10 Who giveth rain upon the earth, and sendeth waters upon the fields:

11 To set up on high those that be low; that those which mourn may be exalted to safety.

12 He disappointeth the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot perform their enterprise.

13 He taketh the wise in their own craftiness: and the counsel of the froward is carried headlong.

14 They meet with darkness in the day time, and grope in the noonday as in the night.

15 But he saveth the poor from the sword, from their mouth, and from the hand of the mighty.

16 So the poor hath hope, and iniquity stoppeth her mouth.

17 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:

18 For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.

19 He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee.

20 In famine he shall redeem thee from death: and in war from the power of the sword.

21 Thou shalt be hid from the scourge of the tongue: neither shalt thou be afraid of destruction when it cometh.

22 At destruction and famine thou shalt laugh: neither shalt thou be afraid of the beasts of the earth.

23 For thou shalt be in league with the stones of the field: and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with thee.

24 And thou shalt know that thy tabernacle shall be in peace; and thou shalt visit thy habitation, and shalt not sin.

25 Thou shalt know also that thy seed shall be great, and thine offspring as the grass of the earth.

26 Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in in his season.

27 Lo this, we have searched it, so it is; hear it, and know thou it for thy good.

Eliphaz: Job Is Chastened by God

“Call out now;
Is there anyone who will answer you?
And to which of the holy ones will you turn?
For wrath kills a foolish man,
And envy slays a simple one.
(A)I have seen the foolish taking root,
But suddenly I cursed his dwelling place.
His sons are (B)far from safety,
They are crushed in the gate,
And (C)there is no deliverer.
Because the hungry eat up his harvest,
[a]Taking it even from the thorns,
[b]And a snare snatches their [c]substance.
For affliction does not come from the dust,
Nor does trouble spring from the ground;
Yet man is (D)born to [d]trouble,
As the sparks fly upward.

“But as for me, I would seek God,
And to God I would commit my cause—
Who does great things, and unsearchable,
Marvelous things without number.
10 (E)He gives rain on the earth,
And sends waters on the fields.
11 (F)He sets on high those who are lowly,
And those who mourn are lifted to safety.
12 (G)He frustrates the devices of the crafty,
So that their hands cannot carry out their plans.
13 He catches the (H)wise in their own craftiness,
And the counsel of the cunning comes quickly upon them.
14 They meet with darkness in the daytime,
And grope at noontime as in the night.
15 But (I)He saves the needy from the sword,
From the mouth of the mighty,
And from their hand.
16 (J)So the poor have hope,
And injustice shuts her mouth.

17 “Behold,(K) happy is the man whom God corrects;
Therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty.
18 (L)For He bruises, but He binds up;
He wounds, but His hands make whole.
19 (M)He shall deliver you in six troubles,
Yes, in seven (N)no evil shall touch you.
20 (O)In famine He shall redeem you from death,
And in war from the [e]power of the sword.
21 (P)You shall be hidden from the scourge of the tongue,
And you shall not be afraid of destruction when it comes.
22 You shall laugh at destruction and famine,
And (Q)you shall not be afraid of the (R)beasts of the earth.
23 (S)For you shall have a covenant with the stones of the field,
And the beasts of the field shall be at peace with you.
24 You shall know that your tent is in peace;
You shall visit your dwelling and find nothing amiss.
25 You shall also know that (T)your descendants shall be many,
And your offspring (U)like the grass of the earth.
26 (V)You shall come to the grave at a full age,
As a sheaf of grain ripens in its season.
27 Behold, this we have (W)searched out;
It is true.
Hear it, and know for yourself.”

Footnotes

  1. Job 5:5 LXX They shall not be taken from evil men; Vg. And the armed man shall take him by violence
  2. Job 5:5 LXX The might shall draw them off; Vg. And the thirsty shall drink up their riches
  3. Job 5:5 wealth
  4. Job 5:7 labor
  5. Job 5:20 Lit. hand

“Call now; is there anyone who will answer you?
    To which of (A)the holy ones will you turn?
Surely vexation kills the fool,
    and jealousy slays the simple.
(B)I have seen the fool taking root,
    but suddenly I cursed his dwelling.
His children are (C)far from safety;
    they are crushed in (D)the gate,
    and there is no one to deliver them.
The hungry eat his harvest,
    and he takes it even out of thorns,[a]
    and the thirsty pant[b] after his[c] wealth.
For affliction does not come from the dust,
    nor does trouble sprout from the ground,
but man is (E)born to trouble
    as the sparks fly upward.

“As for me, I would seek God,
    and to God would I commit my cause,
who (F)does great things and (G)unsearchable,
    (H)marvelous things without number:
10 he gives (I)rain on the earth
    and sends waters on the fields;
11 he (J)sets on high those who are lowly,
    and those who mourn are lifted to safety.
12 He (K)frustrates the devices of the crafty,
    so that their hands achieve no success.
13 He (L)catches the wise in their own craftiness,
    and the schemes of the wily are brought to a quick end.
14 They meet with darkness in the daytime
    and (M)grope at noonday as in the night.
15 But he (N)saves the needy from the sword of their mouth
    and from the hand of the mighty.
16 So the poor have hope,
    and (O)injustice shuts her mouth.

17 “Behold, (P)blessed is the one whom God reproves;
    therefore (Q)despise not the discipline of the (R)Almighty.
18 For he wounds, but he (S)binds up;
    he (T)shatters, but his hands heal.
19 He will (U)deliver you from six troubles;
    in seven no (V)evil[d] shall touch you.
20 (W)In famine he will redeem you from death,
    and in war from the power of the sword.
21 You shall be (X)hidden from the lash of the tongue,
    and shall not fear destruction when it comes.
22 At destruction and famine you shall laugh,
    and shall not fear (Y)the beasts of the earth.
23 For you shall be in league with the stones of the field,
    and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with you.
24 You shall know that your (Z)tent is at peace,
    and you shall inspect your fold and miss nothing.
25 You shall know also that your (AA)offspring shall be many,
    and your descendants as (AB)the grass of the earth.
26 You shall come to your grave in (AC)ripe old age,
    like a sheaf gathered up in its season.
27 Behold, this we have (AD)searched out; it is true.
    Hear, and know it for your good.”[e]

Footnotes

  1. Job 5:5 The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain
  2. Job 5:5 Aquila, Symmachus, Syriac, Vulgate; Hebrew could be read as and the snare pants
  3. Job 5:5 Hebrew their
  4. Job 5:19 Or disaster
  5. Job 5:27 Hebrew for yourself

Psalm 108[a](A)(B)

A song. A psalm of David.

My heart, O God, is steadfast;(C)
    I will sing(D) and make music with all my soul.
Awake, harp and lyre!(E)
    I will awaken the dawn.
I will praise you, Lord, among the nations;
    I will sing of you among the peoples.
For great is your love,(F) higher than the heavens;
    your faithfulness(G) reaches to the skies.(H)
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;(I)
    let your glory be over all the earth.(J)

Save us and help us with your right hand,(K)
    that those you love may be delivered.
God has spoken(L) from his sanctuary:(M)
    “In triumph I will parcel out Shechem(N)
    and measure off the Valley of Sukkoth.(O)
Gilead is mine, Manasseh is mine;
    Ephraim is my helmet,
    Judah(P) is my scepter.
Moab(Q) is my washbasin,
    on Edom(R) I toss my sandal;
    over Philistia(S) I shout in triumph.”

10 Who will bring me to the fortified city?
    Who will lead me to Edom?
11 Is it not you, God, you who have rejected us
    and no longer go out with our armies?(T)
12 Give us aid against the enemy,
    for human help is worthless.(U)
13 With God we will gain the victory,
    and he will trample down(V) our enemies.

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 108:1 In Hebrew texts 108:1-13 is numbered 108:2-14.

108 O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory.

Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early.

I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations.

For thy mercy is great above the heavens: and thy truth reacheth unto the clouds.

Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: and thy glory above all the earth;

That thy beloved may be delivered: save with thy right hand, and answer me.

God hath spoken in his holiness; I will rejoice, I will divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of Succoth.

Gilead is mine; Manasseh is mine; Ephraim also is the strength of mine head; Judah is my lawgiver;

Moab is my washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe; over Philistia will I triumph.

10 Who will bring me into the strong city? who will lead me into Edom?

11 Wilt not thou, O God, who hast cast us off? and wilt not thou, O God, go forth with our hosts?

12 Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man.

13 Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies.

Assurance of God’s Victory over Enemies(A)

A Song. A Psalm of David.

108 O (B)God, my heart is steadfast;
I will sing and give praise, even with my glory.
(C)Awake, lute and harp!
I will awaken the dawn.
I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples,
And I will sing praises to You among the nations.
For Your mercy is great above the [a]heavens,
And Your truth reaches to the clouds.

(D)Be exalted, O God, above the heavens,
And Your glory above all the earth;
(E)That Your beloved may be delivered,
Save with Your right hand, and [b]hear me.

God has spoken in His holiness:
“I will rejoice;
I will divide Shechem
And measure out the Valley of Succoth.
Gilead is Mine; Manasseh is Mine;
Ephraim also is the [c]helmet for My head;
(F)Judah is My lawgiver.
Moab is My washpot;
Over Edom I will cast My shoe;
Over Philistia I will triumph.”

10 (G)Who will bring me into the strong city?
Who will lead me to Edom?
11 Is it not You, O God, who cast us off?
And You, O God, who did not go out with our armies?
12 Give us help from trouble,
For the help of man is useless.
13 (H)Through God we will do valiantly,
For it is He who shall tread down our enemies.

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 108:4 skies
  2. Psalm 108:6 Lit. answer
  3. Psalm 108:8 Lit. protection

With God We Shall Do Valiantly

A Song. A Psalm of David.

108 (A)My heart is steadfast, O God!
    I will sing and make melody with all my being![a]
Awake, O harp and lyre!
    I will awake the dawn!
I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples;
    I will sing praises to you among the nations.
For your steadfast love is great (B)above the heavens;
    your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens!
    Let your glory be over all the earth!
(C)That your beloved ones may be delivered,
    give salvation by your right hand and answer me!

God has promised in his holiness:[b]
    “With exultation I will divide up Shechem
    and portion out the Valley of Succoth.
Gilead is mine; Manasseh is mine;
    Ephraim is my helmet,
    Judah my scepter.
Moab is my washbasin;
    upon Edom I cast my shoe;
    (D)over Philistia I shout in triumph.”

10 Who will bring me to the fortified city?
    Who will lead me to Edom?
11 Have you not rejected us, O God?
    You do not go out, O God, with our armies.
12 Oh grant us help against the foe,
    for vain is the salvation of man!
13 With God we shall do valiantly;
    it is he who will tread down our foes.

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 108:1 Hebrew with my glory
  2. Psalm 108:7 Or sanctuary

Cornelius Calls for Peter

10 At Caesarea(A) there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing;(B) he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. One day at about three in the afternoon(C) he had a vision.(D) He distinctly saw an angel(E) of God, who came to him and said, “Cornelius!”

Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked.

The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering(F) before God.(G) Now send men to Joppa(H) to bring back a man named Simon who is called Peter. He is staying with Simon the tanner,(I) whose house is by the sea.”

When the angel who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier who was one of his attendants. He told them everything that had happened and sent them to Joppa.(J)

Peter’s Vision(K)

About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof(L) to pray. 10 He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance.(M) 11 He saw heaven opened(N) and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. 12 It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles and birds. 13 Then a voice told him, “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.”

14 “Surely not, Lord!”(O) Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.”(P)

15 The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.”(Q)

16 This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven.

17 While Peter was wondering about the meaning of the vision,(R) the men sent by Cornelius(S) found out where Simon’s house was and stopped at the gate. 18 They called out, asking if Simon who was known as Peter was staying there.

19 While Peter was still thinking about the vision,(T) the Spirit said(U) to him, “Simon, three[a] men are looking for you. 20 So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them.”(V)

21 Peter went down and said to the men, “I’m the one you’re looking for. Why have you come?”

22 The men replied, “We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man,(W) who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to ask you to come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say.”(X) 23 Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests.

Peter at Cornelius’s House

The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the believers(Y) from Joppa went along.(Z) 24 The following day he arrived in Caesarea.(AA) Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. 26 But Peter made him get up. “Stand up,” he said, “I am only a man myself.”(AB)

27 While talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people.(AC) 28 He said to them: “You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile.(AD) But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean.(AE) 29 So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. May I ask why you sent for me?”

30 Cornelius answered: “Three days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes(AF) stood before me 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. 32 Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.’ 33 So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us.”

34 Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism(AG) 35 but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.(AH) 36 You know the message(AI) God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news(AJ) of peace(AK) through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.(AL) 37 You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— 38 how God anointed(AM) Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing(AN) all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.(AO)

39 “We are witnesses(AP) of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross,(AQ) 40 but God raised him from the dead(AR) on the third day and caused him to be seen. 41 He was not seen by all the people,(AS) but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate(AT) and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 He commanded us to preach to the people(AU) and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.(AV) 43 All the prophets testify about him(AW) that everyone(AX) who believes(AY) in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”(AZ)

44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on(BA) all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter(BB) were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out(BC) even on Gentiles.(BD) 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues[b](BE) and praising God.

Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water.(BF) They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.”(BG) 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.(BH) Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

Footnotes

  1. Acts 10:19 One early manuscript two; other manuscripts do not have the number.
  2. Acts 10:46 Or other languages

10 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,

A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.

He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.

And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.

And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:

He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.

And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;

And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.

On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:

10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,

11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending upon him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:

12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.

14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.

15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.

16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,

18 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.

19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee.

20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?

22 And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.

23 Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.

24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and he had called together his kinsmen and near friends.

25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.

26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.

27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together.

28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

29 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?

30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.

33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)

37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;

38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:

40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;

41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.

42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.

43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.

45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.

46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,

47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?

48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Cornelius Sends a Delegation

10 There was a certain man in (A)Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian [a]Regiment, (B)a devout man and one who (C)feared God with all his household, who gave [b]alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always. About [c]the ninth hour of the day (D)he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!”

And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it, lord?”

So he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. Now (E)send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. He is lodging with (F)Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. (G)He[d] will tell you what you must do.” And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually. So when he had explained all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa.

Peter’s Vision

The next day, as they went on their journey and drew near the city, (H)Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about [e]the sixth hour. 10 Then he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they made ready, he fell into a trance 11 and (I)saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. 13 And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.”

14 But Peter said, “Not so, Lord! (J)For I have never eaten anything common or unclean.”

15 And a voice spoke to him again the second time, (K)“What God has [f]cleansed you must not call common.” 16 This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again.

Summoned to Caesarea

17 Now while Peter [g]wondered within himself what this vision which he had seen meant, behold, the men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon’s house, and stood before the gate. 18 And they called and asked whether Simon, whose surname was Peter, was lodging there.

19 While Peter thought about the vision, (L)the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are seeking you. 20 (M)Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.”

21 Then Peter went down to the men [h]who had been sent to him from Cornelius, and said, “Yes, I am he whom you seek. For what reason have you come?”

22 And they said, “Cornelius the centurion, a just man, one who fears God and (N)has a good reputation among all the nation of the Jews, was divinely instructed by a holy angel to summon you to his house, and to hear words from you.” 23 Then he invited them in and lodged them.

On the next day Peter went away with them, (O)and some brethren from Joppa accompanied him.

Peter Meets Cornelius

24 And the following day they entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 As Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, (P)“Stand up; I myself am also a man.” 27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many who had come together. 28 Then he said to them, “You know how (Q)unlawful it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation. But (R)God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore I came without objection as soon as I was sent for. I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me?”

30 So Cornelius said, [i]“Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, (S)a man stood before me (T)in bright clothing, 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, (U)your prayer has been heard, and (V)your [j]alms are remembered in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa and call Simon here, whose surname is Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. [k]When he comes, he will speak to you.’ 33 So I sent to you immediately, and you have done well to come. Now therefore, we are all present before God, to hear all the things commanded you by God.”

Preaching to Cornelius’ Household

34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said: (W)“In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. 35 But (X)in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is (Y)accepted by Him. 36 The word which God sent to the [l]children of Israel, (Z)preaching peace through Jesus Christ—(AA)He is Lord of all— 37 that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and (AB)began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: 38 how (AC)God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who (AD)went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, (AE)for God was with Him. 39 And we are (AF)witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom [m]they (AG)killed by hanging on a tree. 40 Him (AH)God raised up on the third day, and showed Him openly, 41 (AI)not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us (AJ)who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead. 42 And (AK)He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify (AL)that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge (AM)of the living and the dead. 43 (AN)To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, (AO)whoever believes in Him will receive (AP)remission[n] of sins.”

The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles

44 While Peter was still speaking these words, (AQ)the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. 45 (AR)And [o]those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, (AS)because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.

Then Peter answered, 47 “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit (AT)just as we have? 48 (AU)And he commanded them to be baptized (AV)in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.

Footnotes

  1. Acts 10:1 Cohort
  2. Acts 10:2 charitable gifts
  3. Acts 10:3 3 p.m.
  4. Acts 10:6 NU, M omit the rest of v. 6.
  5. Acts 10:9 Noon
  6. Acts 10:15 Declared clean
  7. Acts 10:17 was perplexed
  8. Acts 10:21 NU, M omit who had been sent to him from Cornelius
  9. Acts 10:30 NU Four days ago to this hour, at the ninth hour
  10. Acts 10:31 charitable gifts
  11. Acts 10:32 NU omits the rest of v. 32.
  12. Acts 10:36 Lit. sons
  13. Acts 10:39 NU, M they also
  14. Acts 10:43 forgiveness
  15. Acts 10:45 The Jews

Peter and Cornelius

10 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of (A)what was known as the Italian Cohort, a devout man (B)who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. (C)About the ninth hour of the day[a] (D)he saw clearly in a vision (E)an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms (F)have ascended (G)as a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging (H)with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.

Peter's Vision

The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, (I)Peter went up (J)on the housetop about (K)the sixth hour[b] to pray. 10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into (L)a trance 11 and saw (M)the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; (N)for I have never eaten anything that is (O)common or (P)unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, (Q)“What God has made clean, do not call common.” 16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.

17 Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what (R)the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, (S)the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon's house, stood at the gate 18 and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there. 19 And while Peter was pondering (T)the vision, (U)the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and go down and (V)accompany them without hesitation,[c] for I have sent them.” 21 And Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?” 22 And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and (W)God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by (X)a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and (Y)to hear what you have to say.” 23 So he invited them in to be his guests.

The next day he rose and went away with them, and (Z)some of (AA)the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and (AB)fell down at his feet and (AC)worshiped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, (AD)“Stand up; I too am a man.” 27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28 And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew (AE)to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but (AF)God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.”

30 And Cornelius said, (AG)“Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at (AH)the ninth hour,[d] and behold, (AI)a man stood before me in bright clothing 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, (AJ)your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ 33 So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord.”

Gentiles Hear the Good News

34 So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that (AK)God (AL)shows no partiality, 35 but (AM)in every nation anyone who fears him and (AN)does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 As for (AO)the word that he sent to Israel, (AP)preaching good news of (AQ)peace through Jesus Christ ((AR)he is Lord of all), 37 you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, (AS)beginning (AT)from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38 how (AU)God anointed Jesus of Nazareth (AV)with the Holy Spirit and with (AW)power. He went about doing good and healing all (AX)who were oppressed by the devil, (AY)for God was with him. 39 And (AZ)we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. (BA)They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, 40 but (BB)God raised him on (BC)the third day and made him to (BD)appear, 41 (BE)not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as (BF)witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And (BG)he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify (BH)that he is the one appointed by God to be judge (BI)of the living and the dead. 43 (BJ)To him (BK)all the prophets bear witness that (BL)everyone who believes in him receives (BM)forgiveness of sins (BN)through his name.”

The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles

44 While Peter was still saying these things, (BO)the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45 And the believers from among (BP)the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because (BQ)the gift of the Holy Spirit (BR)was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they were hearing them (BS)speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 (BT)“Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit (BU)just as we have?” 48 And he (BV)commanded them (BW)to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.

Footnotes

  1. Acts 10:3 That is, 3 p.m.
  2. Acts 10:9 That is, noon
  3. Acts 10:20 Or accompany them, making no distinction
  4. Acts 10:30 That is, 3 p.m.

Peter Explains His Actions

11 The apostles and the believers(A) throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.(B) So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers(C) criticized him and said, “You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them.”(D)

Starting from the beginning, Peter told them the whole story: “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision.(E) I saw something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to where I was. I looked into it and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles and birds. Then I heard a voice telling me, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’

“I replied, ‘Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’

“The voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’(F) 10 This happened three times, and then it was all pulled up to heaven again.

11 “Right then three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea(G) stopped at the house where I was staying. 12 The Spirit told(H) me to have no hesitation about going with them.(I) These six brothers(J) also went with me, and we entered the man’s house. 13 He told us how he had seen an angel(K) appear in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. 14 He will bring you a message(L) through which you and all your household(M) will be saved.’

15 “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on(N) them as he had come on us at the beginning.(O) 16 Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with[a] water,(P) but you will be baptized with[b] the Holy Spirit.’(Q) 17 So if God gave them the same gift(R) he gave us(S) who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”

18 When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.”(T)

The Church in Antioch

19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed(U) traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch,(V) spreading the word only among Jews. 20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus(W) and Cyrene,(X) went to Antioch(Y) and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news(Z) about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord’s hand was with them,(AA) and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.(AB)

22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas(AC) to Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done,(AD) he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.(AE) 24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit(AF) and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.(AG)

25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus(AH) to look for Saul, 26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples(AI) were called Christians first(AJ) at Antioch.

27 During this time some prophets(AK) came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 One of them, named Agabus,(AL) stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world.(AM) (This happened during the reign of Claudius.)(AN) 29 The disciples,(AO) as each one was able, decided to provide help(AP) for the brothers and sisters(AQ) living in Judea. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders(AR) by Barnabas(AS) and Saul.(AT)

Footnotes

  1. Acts 11:16 Or in
  2. Acts 11:16 Or in

11 And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,

Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.

But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,

I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:

Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.

But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.

But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.

10 And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.

11 And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.

12 And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:

13 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;

14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.

15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.

17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?

18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.

21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.

22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.

23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.

24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:

26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.

28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.

29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:

30 Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

Peter Defends God’s Grace

11 Now the apostles and brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, (A)those of the circumcision contended with him, saying, (B)“You went in to uncircumcised men (C)and ate with them!”

But Peter explained it to them (D)in order from the beginning, saying: (E)“I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision, an object descending like a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came to me. When I observed it intently and considered, I saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ But I said, ‘Not so, Lord! For nothing common or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.’ But the voice answered me again from heaven, ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’ 10 Now this was done three times, and all were drawn up again into heaven. 11 At that very moment, three men stood before the house where I was, having been sent to me from Caesarea. 12 Then (F)the Spirit told me to go with them, doubting nothing. Moreover (G)these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. 13 (H)And he told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house, who said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter, 14 who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved.’ 15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, (I)as upon us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, (J)‘John indeed baptized with water, but (K)you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 (L)If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, (M)who was I that I could withstand God?”

18 When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, (N)“Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.”

Barnabas and Saul at Antioch

19 (O)Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to (P)the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And (Q)the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and (R)turned to the Lord.

22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out (S)Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and (T)encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, (U)full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. (V)And a great many people were added to the Lord.

25 Then Barnabas departed for (W)Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

Relief to Judea

27 And in these days (X)prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 Then one of them, named (Y)Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of (Z)Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send (AA)relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. 30 (AB)This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

Peter Reports to the Church

11 Now the apostles and (A)the brothers[a] who were throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, (B)the circumcision party[b] criticized him, saying, (C)“You went to uncircumcised men and (D)ate with them.” But Peter began and explained it to them in order: (E)“I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, something like a great sheet descending, being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to me. Looking at it closely, I observed animals and beasts of prey and reptiles and birds of the air. And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ But I said, ‘By no means, Lord; for nothing common or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ But the voice answered a second time from heaven, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.’ 10 This happened three times, and all was drawn up again into heaven. 11 And behold, at that very moment three men arrived at the house in which we were, sent to me from Caesarea. 12 And the Spirit told me to go with them, (F)making no distinction. (G)These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man's house. 13 And he told us how he had seen the angel stand in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon who is called Peter; 14 (H)he will declare to you a message by which (I)you will be saved, you and all your household.’ 15 As I began to speak, (J)the Holy Spirit fell on them (K)just as on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, (L)‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 If then (M)God gave (N)the same gift to them as he gave to us (O)when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, (P)who was I (Q)that I could stand in God's way?” 18 When they heard these things they fell silent. And they (R)glorified God, saying, (S)“Then to the Gentiles also God has (T)granted (U)repentance that leads to life.”

The Church in Antioch

19 (V)Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists[c] also, (W)preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And (X)the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed (Y)turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw (Z)the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord (AA)with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, (AB)full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people (AC)were added to the Lord. 25 So Barnabas went to (AD)Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called (AE)Christians.

27 Now in these days (AF)prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 And one of them named (AG)Agabus stood up and foretold (AH)by the Spirit that there would be a great (AI)famine over all the world (this took place in the days of (AJ)Claudius). 29 So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, (AK)to send relief to (AL)the brothers[d] living in Judea. 30 (AM)And they did so, sending it to (AN)the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.

Footnotes

  1. Acts 11:1 Or brothers and sisters
  2. Acts 11:2 Or Jerusalem, those of the circumcision
  3. Acts 11:20 Or Greeks (that is, Greek-speaking non-Jews)
  4. Acts 11:29 Or brothers and sisters