1 00:00:00,530 --> 00:00:04,890 Speaker 1: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for 2 00:00:04,950 --> 00:00:11,440 Speaker 1: they shall be filled. Matthew 5.6 Dear Lord, stir within 3 00:00:11,539 --> 00:00:17,400 Speaker 1: us an unquenchable hunger and thirst for righteousness. May it 4 00:00:17,480 --> 00:00:22,090 Speaker 1: be a driving force that moves us to action, to 5 00:00:22,250 --> 00:00:26,510 Speaker 1: advocate for the voiceless, to defend the weak, and to 6 00:00:26,590 --> 00:00:32,470 Speaker 1: stand against injustice wherever we see it. Let our pursuit 7 00:00:32,510 --> 00:00:36,610 Speaker 1: of righteousness be as essential as the air we breathe 8 00:00:37,110 --> 00:00:42,030 Speaker 1: and the water we drink. Knowing that in your kingdom 9 00:00:42,930 --> 00:00:46,670 Speaker 1: these efforts are not in vain, but lead us to 10 00:00:46,729 --> 00:00:52,500 Speaker 1: a profound fulfillment. Help us not only to seek righteousness, 11 00:00:53,460 --> 00:00:58,800 Speaker 1: but to embody it. May our daily choices reflect our 12 00:00:58,880 --> 00:01:03,610 Speaker 1: commitment to do what is right. just and good in 13 00:01:03,650 --> 00:01:09,250 Speaker 1: your eyes. Empower us by your Spirit to be agents 14 00:01:09,310 --> 00:01:15,440 Speaker 1: of change, carriers of peace, and beacons of hope and 15 00:01:15,480 --> 00:01:21,000 Speaker 1: integrity in a world that often seems lost in darkness. 16 00:01:22,760 --> 00:01:26,949 Speaker 1: Fill us, Lord, as you promised, and let our lives 17 00:01:27,230 --> 00:01:32,280 Speaker 1: overflow with the righteousness of that comes from walking closely 18 00:01:32,760 --> 00:01:33,119 Speaker 1: with you. 19 00:01:35,020 --> 00:01:35,920 Speaker 2: In Jesus' name. 20 00:01:37,680 --> 00:01:37,980 Speaker 3: Amen. 21 00:01:40,569 --> 00:01:44,169 Speaker 1: Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to 22 00:01:44,190 --> 00:01:49,370 Speaker 1: the Jesus Podcast. Gospel stories told to awaken your imagination 23 00:01:50,030 --> 00:01:55,200 Speaker 1: and challenge your faith. Remain here for another episode inspired 24 00:01:55,240 --> 00:01:58,220 Speaker 1: by the Sermon on the Mount. If you want to 25 00:01:58,260 --> 00:02:02,540 Speaker 1: support this podcast, Share it with a few friends. We 26 00:02:02,580 --> 00:02:06,180 Speaker 1: want everyone to be impacted by the story of Jesus. 27 00:02:08,400 --> 00:02:12,480 Speaker 1: The sound of gulls and bartering sailors echoed from the 28 00:02:12,540 --> 00:02:17,250 Speaker 1: shores of Galilee. The wind picked up scents of freshly 29 00:02:17,310 --> 00:02:22,910 Speaker 1: caught fish and eucalyptus leaves. Peter leaned back, listening to 30 00:02:22,970 --> 00:02:27,790 Speaker 1: Jesus with awe. Peter didn't know what the future held 31 00:02:27,850 --> 00:02:31,160 Speaker 1: for him, but He knew that Jesus would be there 32 00:02:31,540 --> 00:02:36,250 Speaker 1: to guide him through the highs and lows. He listened 33 00:02:36,290 --> 00:02:39,910 Speaker 1: intently as Jesus stood before the crowd on the mountain, 34 00:02:40,730 --> 00:02:44,669 Speaker 1: voice booming with grace and authority. 35 00:02:45,130 --> 00:02:48,530 Speaker 4: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the 36 00:02:48,570 --> 00:02:49,370 Speaker 4: kingdom of heaven. 37 00:02:50,070 --> 00:02:53,440 Speaker 1: Those words brought comfort to those who had been kicked 38 00:02:53,500 --> 00:02:58,770 Speaker 1: around in life. The beggars and sick alike came alive 39 00:02:58,830 --> 00:03:02,130 Speaker 1: at the idea of being blessed with the kingdom of heaven. 40 00:03:04,050 --> 00:03:07,850 Speaker 1: Jesus continued, encouraging the bereaved and the mourning. 41 00:03:08,470 --> 00:03:11,970 Speaker 4: Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 42 00:03:12,950 --> 00:03:17,950 Speaker 1: Those words were balms to wounded and weary souls. But 43 00:03:17,970 --> 00:03:23,510 Speaker 1: then Jesus said something that seemed counterintuitive, something upside down 44 00:03:23,570 --> 00:03:28,710 Speaker 1: to the culture of conquest that consumed the age. Roman 45 00:03:28,760 --> 00:03:32,430 Speaker 1: soldiers standing at attention in the back shuddered at the 46 00:03:32,470 --> 00:03:34,810 Speaker 1: very sound of Jesus' next proclamation. 47 00:03:35,470 --> 00:03:39,530 Speaker 4: Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 48 00:03:40,290 --> 00:03:43,950 Speaker 1: That encouragement cut through the pride of those who thought 49 00:03:43,990 --> 00:03:50,390 Speaker 1: their strength gave them license to be cool. Important merchants 50 00:03:50,830 --> 00:03:55,010 Speaker 1: and Roman guards perked up at the sound of it. Then, 51 00:03:55,110 --> 00:03:59,110 Speaker 1: with earnest excitement in his voice, Jesus continued. 52 00:03:59,690 --> 00:04:03,529 Speaker 4: Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for 53 00:04:03,590 --> 00:04:05,410 Speaker 4: they shall be filled. 54 00:04:11,350 --> 00:04:14,850 Speaker 5: You can't inherit righteousness from your parents. It doesn't get 55 00:04:14,950 --> 00:04:18,270 Speaker 5: passed down from one generation to the next, nor is 56 00:04:18,310 --> 00:04:22,210 Speaker 5: it an inherent part of you, like a birthmark. Righteousness 57 00:04:22,330 --> 00:04:27,000 Speaker 5: is yearned for, sought after, and treasured. Righteousness goes to 58 00:04:27,040 --> 00:04:30,200 Speaker 5: those who hunger and thirst after it enough to seek it. 59 00:04:31,260 --> 00:04:34,390 Speaker 5: You're listening to the Jesus Podcast, a year of stories 60 00:04:34,470 --> 00:04:37,930 Speaker 5: showcasing the depth of Christ's love through storytelling and the 61 00:04:37,970 --> 00:04:42,910 Speaker 5: glory of His truth through honest reflection. Today, we continue 62 00:04:42,950 --> 00:04:45,530 Speaker 5: to connect the threads of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount 63 00:04:45,850 --> 00:04:50,190 Speaker 5: with another biblical story. Today, we flash past the gospel 64 00:04:50,490 --> 00:04:53,870 Speaker 5: to the book of Acts. We will focus on Matthew 5, 65 00:04:53,870 --> 00:04:57,760 Speaker 5: verse 6. which says, Blessed are those who hunger and 66 00:04:57,839 --> 00:05:01,730 Speaker 5: thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. We will 67 00:05:01,790 --> 00:05:05,690 Speaker 5: see how this deep yearning for righteousness is vividly illustrated 68 00:05:05,970 --> 00:05:10,130 Speaker 5: in the story of Cornelius' conversion found in Acts chapter 10, 69 00:05:10,130 --> 00:05:12,130 Speaker 5: and we will explore how we can live out these 70 00:05:12,190 --> 00:05:14,010 Speaker 5: values in our everyday lives. 71 00:05:16,800 --> 00:05:18,440 Speaker 2: Get out of the way, you rat! 72 00:05:18,900 --> 00:05:21,800 Speaker 1: The soldier stood above a beggar who had fallen in 73 00:05:21,820 --> 00:05:22,640 Speaker 1: the middle of the street. 74 00:05:23,240 --> 00:05:27,250 Speaker 2: You're blocking the way of the centurions! Move or be moved! 75 00:05:27,890 --> 00:05:31,890 Speaker 1: The beggar's brow turned inward, terrified of what the soldier 76 00:05:31,950 --> 00:05:36,400 Speaker 1: might do. He tried to move, but his leg was injured. 77 00:05:37,300 --> 00:05:38,420 Speaker 2: I warned you! 78 00:05:38,900 --> 00:05:42,260 Speaker 1: Before the soldier had a chance to strike, someone grabbed 79 00:05:42,339 --> 00:05:42,800 Speaker 1: his arm. 80 00:05:43,200 --> 00:05:45,580 Speaker 3: Leave this man alone! That's an order! 81 00:05:45,980 --> 00:05:51,000 Speaker 1: The man's voice was deep and commanding. Golden eagle emblems 82 00:05:51,360 --> 00:05:54,870 Speaker 1: were etched into his armor. and his helmet was adorned 83 00:05:54,900 --> 00:05:59,470 Speaker 1: with red, white, and gold frays. Strapped to his side 84 00:05:59,529 --> 00:06:02,630 Speaker 1: was a sword with a serpent engraved on the hilt. 85 00:06:04,190 --> 00:06:07,630 Speaker 1: He was Cornelius, a centurion of Rome. 86 00:06:08,170 --> 00:06:11,310 Speaker 3: You weren't raised in the ranks of Caesar to beat 87 00:06:11,410 --> 00:06:12,610 Speaker 3: defenseless beggars. 88 00:06:13,089 --> 00:06:14,469 Speaker 4: Fall back in line! 89 00:06:15,089 --> 00:06:15,750 Speaker 2: Yes, Domine! 90 00:06:16,010 --> 00:06:19,210 Speaker 1: Cornelius extended a hand to the man and lifted him 91 00:06:19,270 --> 00:06:23,190 Speaker 1: off the ground. He placed a small bag of silver 92 00:06:23,710 --> 00:06:24,230 Speaker 1: in his hand. 93 00:06:24,950 --> 00:06:25,469 Speaker 3: And smiled. 94 00:06:26,110 --> 00:06:26,850 Speaker 2: Go your way, sir. 95 00:06:27,390 --> 00:06:30,409 Speaker 3: I'm sorry for the trouble. If this silver isn't enough 96 00:06:30,450 --> 00:06:33,130 Speaker 3: to pay for a physician to treat your leg, find 97 00:06:33,190 --> 00:06:34,730 Speaker 3: my attendant and he will help you. 98 00:06:35,250 --> 00:06:39,170 Speaker 1: The beggar, unable to find the proper words, simply replied. 99 00:06:39,770 --> 00:06:41,600 Speaker 4: May God bless you, my lord. 100 00:06:42,130 --> 00:06:43,979 Speaker 3: He has, abundantly. 101 00:06:44,680 --> 00:06:49,779 Speaker 1: Cornelius replied in a low and pleasant voice. The centurion 102 00:06:49,820 --> 00:06:52,140 Speaker 1: helped him to the side of the road and then 103 00:06:52,240 --> 00:06:53,080 Speaker 1: turned to his men. 104 00:06:53,839 --> 00:06:57,560 Speaker 3: You are soldiers of the Italian cohort, men of honor, 105 00:06:58,140 --> 00:07:01,240 Speaker 3: hammers used to build the empire. The strength of your 106 00:07:01,380 --> 00:07:05,850 Speaker 3: arms are wasted tormenting the defenseless. You may not fear God, 107 00:07:06,310 --> 00:07:09,610 Speaker 3: but I do, and I shall not have such browbeating 108 00:07:09,650 --> 00:07:10,650 Speaker 3: under my command. 109 00:07:11,130 --> 00:07:14,110 Speaker 2: Is that understood? Yes, Donati. 110 00:07:14,630 --> 00:07:19,150 Speaker 1: Cornelius was a devout man, one of a few God-fearing 111 00:07:19,250 --> 00:07:24,960 Speaker 1: Gentiles in Caesarea. Although he was an Italian centurion, he 112 00:07:25,000 --> 00:07:29,020 Speaker 1: felt deeply connected to the God of the Jews. He 113 00:07:29,060 --> 00:07:34,050 Speaker 1: attended the synagogue of Gentiles and Hellenists, traveled to Jerusalem 114 00:07:34,090 --> 00:07:39,190 Speaker 1: for the major feasts, and read the scriptures fervently. He 115 00:07:39,210 --> 00:07:42,350 Speaker 1: was a man of prayer and imparted a habit of 116 00:07:42,450 --> 00:07:48,040 Speaker 1: faithfulness to his household. The law was etched on his heart, 117 00:07:48,820 --> 00:07:53,940 Speaker 1: affecting how he commanded his men. while other soldiers of 118 00:07:54,000 --> 00:07:57,560 Speaker 1: his status hungered for power and thirsted for the approval 119 00:07:57,680 --> 00:08:05,230 Speaker 1: of Caesar. Cornelius hungered for righteousness. He thirsted for something 120 00:08:05,390 --> 00:08:12,150 Speaker 1: greater than Rome, greater than Caesar. Cornelius rounded the corner 121 00:08:12,170 --> 00:08:17,200 Speaker 1: of the marketplace with the sentry marching behind him. His 122 00:08:17,240 --> 00:08:20,120 Speaker 1: hand remained on the hilt of his blade, and the 123 00:08:20,160 --> 00:08:23,710 Speaker 1: golden markings of his armor shimmered in the afternoon sun. 124 00:08:25,470 --> 00:08:28,560 Speaker 1: Most people trembled when a Roman soldier passed through the city. 125 00:08:29,900 --> 00:08:34,800 Speaker 1: But the Italian cohort was different. People were awed when 126 00:08:34,840 --> 00:08:38,540 Speaker 1: they marched. Children rushed to get a view of them, 127 00:08:39,340 --> 00:08:45,520 Speaker 1: and vendors cheered as they passed. They were respected and beloved, 128 00:08:46,620 --> 00:08:52,589 Speaker 1: thanks to the righteous rule of their commanding centurion. At 129 00:08:52,630 --> 00:08:56,370 Speaker 1: the ninth hour, Cornelius retreated to his room to seek God. 130 00:08:57,610 --> 00:09:01,610 Speaker 1: The air was cool, a stark contrast to the heat outside. 131 00:09:01,630 --> 00:09:05,910 Speaker 1: He bowed a knee to the Lord, searching for Him, 132 00:09:06,750 --> 00:09:14,420 Speaker 1: hungering for wisdom and righteousness. As Cornelius prayed, the sides 133 00:09:14,520 --> 00:09:18,219 Speaker 1: of his vision grew dim, and in the center of 134 00:09:18,260 --> 00:09:22,280 Speaker 1: his mind's eye, he saw an angel of the Lord 135 00:09:22,870 --> 00:09:28,750 Speaker 1: before him. The angel was draped in splendor and glory 136 00:09:29,630 --> 00:09:31,890 Speaker 1: and with a voice booming like thunder. 137 00:09:32,210 --> 00:09:33,290 Speaker 6: Cornelius. 138 00:09:34,270 --> 00:09:38,590 Speaker 1: Being a good soldier, Cornelius bowed at attention, ready to serve. 139 00:09:39,130 --> 00:09:40,109 Speaker 3: What is it, my lord? 140 00:09:40,650 --> 00:09:43,990 Speaker 7: Just then, your prayers and alms to the poor have 141 00:09:44,010 --> 00:09:49,130 Speaker 7: ascended as a memorial before the lord. Send men to 142 00:09:49,190 --> 00:09:53,510 Speaker 7: Joppa and ask for a man named Peter. He is 143 00:09:53,590 --> 00:09:56,520 Speaker 7: lodging in a home by the sea with a man 144 00:09:56,600 --> 00:10:01,390 Speaker 7: named Simon the Tanner. Peter will show you the way. 145 00:10:02,080 --> 00:10:06,100 Speaker 7: Cornelius could see the room again. The angel was gone, 146 00:10:07,100 --> 00:10:12,600 Speaker 7: but his commands lingered in the centurion's mind. Cornelius rose 147 00:10:12,960 --> 00:10:14,440 Speaker 7: and shouted for his attendants. 148 00:10:15,140 --> 00:10:18,220 Speaker 3: Men, I need you to go to Joppa. Find me 149 00:10:18,260 --> 00:10:19,920 Speaker 3: a man of God named Peter. 150 00:10:20,610 --> 00:10:22,970 Speaker 1: Peter took in the breeze coming in from the sea. 151 00:10:24,090 --> 00:10:28,610 Speaker 1: The salty air filled his lungs, refreshing his mind after 152 00:10:28,690 --> 00:10:34,460 Speaker 1: days of travel. Peter had always loved Joppa. The ships 153 00:10:34,520 --> 00:10:37,319 Speaker 1: coming in and out of the port were much larger 154 00:10:37,360 --> 00:10:39,740 Speaker 1: than the humble ones he grew up with in Galilee. 155 00:10:41,500 --> 00:10:42,480 Speaker 2: As a boy, he. 156 00:10:42,420 --> 00:10:45,150 Speaker 1: Wondered what it would be like to sail the Mediterranean 157 00:10:45,750 --> 00:10:51,959 Speaker 1: to lands unknown. They were only dreams back then, However, 158 00:10:52,100 --> 00:10:56,059 Speaker 1: after following Jesus, Peter realized. 159 00:10:55,540 --> 00:10:57,490 Speaker 2: That nothing was impossible. 160 00:10:59,070 --> 00:11:01,470 Speaker 1: He tried to pray a prayer of thanksgiving to God, 161 00:11:01,550 --> 00:11:05,170 Speaker 1: but an ache in his stomach kept him from concentrating. 162 00:11:07,450 --> 00:11:10,670 Speaker 2: Oh, Lord, I'm hungry. Peter turned back to the man 163 00:11:10,740 --> 00:11:13,460 Speaker 2: hosting him. Is there any way I could get something 164 00:11:13,480 --> 00:11:17,360 Speaker 2: to eat? My journey seems to be catching up with me. 165 00:11:17,380 --> 00:11:19,559 Speaker 2: I feel lightheaded. 166 00:11:20,580 --> 00:11:23,140 Speaker 4: Don't worry. I'll whip something up for you, Peter. 167 00:11:23,559 --> 00:11:26,320 Speaker 2: God bless you. Let me know when it's ready. 168 00:11:26,880 --> 00:11:30,220 Speaker 1: The man descended the stairs, leaving Peter alone on the roof. 169 00:11:31,260 --> 00:11:34,550 Speaker 1: Peter leaned over the edge, drawing another deep breath of 170 00:11:34,650 --> 00:11:38,370 Speaker 1: salt air seasoned with the faint smell of fish and 171 00:11:38,410 --> 00:11:45,059 Speaker 1: damp wood. It was a pleasant and familiar smell. Peter 172 00:11:45,120 --> 00:11:50,430 Speaker 1: felt his stomach again. Hunger pains jabbed at him. He 173 00:11:50,470 --> 00:11:53,270 Speaker 1: leaned his back against the wall and closed his eyes. 174 00:11:54,750 --> 00:11:59,770 Speaker 1: The soothing noise of the ocean faded, and all was silent. 175 00:12:01,320 --> 00:12:05,500 Speaker 1: Peter opened his eyes and looked up. He was no 176 00:12:05,540 --> 00:12:09,740 Speaker 1: longer on the roof, but standing on a grassy hill, 177 00:12:10,480 --> 00:12:15,700 Speaker 1: gazing at the stars. The skies were arrayed with millions 178 00:12:15,760 --> 00:12:21,729 Speaker 1: of lights, twinkling to the tune of an unheard song. Suddenly, 179 00:12:22,650 --> 00:12:26,750 Speaker 1: the lights moved toward one another, converging in one space, 180 00:12:27,250 --> 00:12:32,820 Speaker 1: then exploding. The heavens opened up, and a burst of 181 00:12:33,020 --> 00:12:39,040 Speaker 1: light threw the firmament. Peter rolled back and watched with fear. 182 00:12:40,460 --> 00:12:45,760 Speaker 1: Peter saw something like a great sheet descending from the heavens, 183 00:12:46,520 --> 00:12:49,220 Speaker 1: being let down by its four corners. 184 00:12:49,120 --> 00:12:49,679 Speaker 2: Upon the earth. 185 00:12:51,240 --> 00:12:56,420 Speaker 1: On the sheet were all kinds of animals, reptiles, birds. 186 00:12:58,120 --> 00:13:01,120 Speaker 1: Then Peter heard a voice boom from the heavens. 187 00:13:01,900 --> 00:13:05,370 Speaker 6: Rise, Peter, kill and eat. 188 00:13:05,870 --> 00:13:09,689 Speaker 1: Peter looked at the animals. Although he was starving, none 189 00:13:09,710 --> 00:13:14,170 Speaker 1: of those animals were ceremonially accepted. The law of Moses 190 00:13:14,230 --> 00:13:17,450 Speaker 1: forbade Peter from eating every animal that walked before him. 191 00:13:19,020 --> 00:13:22,120 Speaker 1: He thought the command might be a test to see 192 00:13:22,179 --> 00:13:24,079 Speaker 1: if he would follow the law when hungry. 193 00:13:24,780 --> 00:13:28,059 Speaker 2: No, Lord. I can't eat these animals. I can't eat 194 00:13:28,420 --> 00:13:30,420 Speaker 2: anything common or unclean. 195 00:13:30,860 --> 00:13:35,120 Speaker 6: What God has made clean, do not call common. 196 00:13:35,640 --> 00:13:39,840 Speaker 1: The wind picked up throughout the hills. The sheet was 197 00:13:39,920 --> 00:13:44,860 Speaker 1: rolled up and brought back into heaven. Peter gasped and 198 00:13:44,920 --> 00:13:49,190 Speaker 1: opened his eyes. He looked around. He was back on 199 00:13:49,210 --> 00:13:52,910 Speaker 1: the roof. He stood to his feet and looked out 200 00:13:52,960 --> 00:13:53,410 Speaker 1: at the sea. 201 00:13:54,179 --> 00:13:58,780 Speaker 2: What God has made clean do not call common? What 202 00:13:58,800 --> 00:13:59,459 Speaker 2: does this mean? 203 00:13:59,900 --> 00:14:05,199 Speaker 1: Peter rubbed his eyes, trying to grasp reality again. His 204 00:14:05,280 --> 00:14:10,709 Speaker 1: vision was perplexing. Peter no longer thought about the hunger 205 00:14:10,750 --> 00:14:15,569 Speaker 1: in his stomach. Instead, he was filled with questions about 206 00:14:15,610 --> 00:14:21,060 Speaker 1: the meaning of his visions. In his prayers, Peter heard 207 00:14:21,340 --> 00:14:25,640 Speaker 1: from the Holy Spirit. Three men were looking for him. 208 00:14:26,600 --> 00:14:31,030 Speaker 1: When they arrived, Peter had to listen. Sure enough, Peter 209 00:14:31,110 --> 00:14:36,130 Speaker 1: saw three men standing at the gates. Okay, Lord, what 210 00:14:36,150 --> 00:14:39,930 Speaker 1: do you have next? Peter descended the stairs and approached 211 00:14:39,970 --> 00:14:40,270 Speaker 1: the men. 212 00:14:40,830 --> 00:14:43,360 Speaker 3: How may I help you, gentlemen? We are looking for 213 00:14:43,390 --> 00:14:45,680 Speaker 3: a man of God named Peter. We are told he 214 00:14:45,720 --> 00:14:46,540 Speaker 3: may be lodging here. 215 00:14:46,860 --> 00:14:49,630 Speaker 2: Where are you looking at him? Why have you come? 216 00:14:50,170 --> 00:14:53,190 Speaker 3: We have come here from Caesarea on behalf of Cornelius, 217 00:14:53,570 --> 00:14:57,050 Speaker 3: centurion over the Italian cohort. We know what you might 218 00:14:57,120 --> 00:14:59,940 Speaker 3: be thinking. Why would a Gentile be asking for you? 219 00:15:00,580 --> 00:15:04,740 Speaker 3: But Cornelius is a God-fearing man who is beloved among 220 00:15:04,760 --> 00:15:07,760 Speaker 3: the Jewish people in the region. You still haven't told 221 00:15:07,780 --> 00:15:08,800 Speaker 3: me why he summoned me. 222 00:15:09,300 --> 00:15:12,060 Speaker 1: The three men looked at each other, wondering how much 223 00:15:12,180 --> 00:15:16,470 Speaker 1: detail to offer. What they were about to say seemed 224 00:15:16,650 --> 00:15:20,160 Speaker 1: crazy to them. but they didn't know who they were 225 00:15:20,200 --> 00:15:20,740 Speaker 1: talking to. 226 00:15:21,260 --> 00:15:24,580 Speaker 3: He claims an angel told him to find you. This 227 00:15:24,860 --> 00:15:27,370 Speaker 3: angel told him that you have something to tell him 228 00:15:27,830 --> 00:15:28,590 Speaker 3: and his household. 229 00:15:29,190 --> 00:15:35,650 Speaker 1: Peter smirked, eyes lit up with curiosity. God was on 230 00:15:35,690 --> 00:15:36,109 Speaker 1: the move. 231 00:15:38,470 --> 00:15:39,050 Speaker 2: Lead the way. 232 00:15:39,770 --> 00:15:43,630 Speaker 1: Peter summited a small hill overlooking the road to Caesarea. 233 00:15:44,670 --> 00:15:48,440 Speaker 1: A few brothers in Christ from Joppa accompanied him. as 234 00:15:48,480 --> 00:15:52,830 Speaker 1: they followed the three Gentile servants into the city. As 235 00:15:52,910 --> 00:15:56,830 Speaker 1: Peter scanned the city below, he thought about his vision. 236 00:15:57,190 --> 00:16:01,470 Speaker 6: What God has made clean, do not call common. 237 00:16:02,070 --> 00:16:06,890 Speaker 1: Custom forbade Jews to eat with Gentiles. But here Peter was, 238 00:16:07,430 --> 00:16:11,620 Speaker 1: sharing the road with Gentiles, to be hosted by Gentiles, 239 00:16:12,380 --> 00:16:18,600 Speaker 1: and not just any Gentiles. The household of an esteemed centurion. 240 00:16:18,430 --> 00:16:20,890 Speaker 2: Tell me more about this centurion. 241 00:16:21,350 --> 00:16:24,570 Speaker 3: Well, he's not like other men in his position. While 242 00:16:24,610 --> 00:16:29,130 Speaker 3: most other centurions crave more power, Cornelius has other appetites. 243 00:16:29,970 --> 00:16:30,840 Speaker 3: He hungers for. 244 00:16:31,080 --> 00:16:35,760 Speaker 1: The servants trailed off, searching for the right words. Righteousness, 245 00:16:36,320 --> 00:16:40,660 Speaker 1: Peter whispered, remembering the words of his master years ago. 246 00:16:41,320 --> 00:16:44,380 Speaker 4: Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness. 247 00:16:45,040 --> 00:16:46,900 Speaker 2: For they shall be filled. 248 00:16:47,580 --> 00:16:51,540 Speaker 1: The men weaved through the busy cities of Caesarea, marching 249 00:16:51,600 --> 00:16:57,340 Speaker 1: past the barracks into the Cornelius estate. Blooming ivy covered 250 00:16:57,360 --> 00:17:02,280 Speaker 1: the large stone walls. Golden eagles were etched into the gates. 251 00:17:03,840 --> 00:17:08,880 Speaker 1: Peter felt slightly uneasy. It was like Caesar was watching. 252 00:17:10,400 --> 00:17:13,160 Speaker 1: No devout Jew would be caught dead in the home 253 00:17:13,220 --> 00:17:19,170 Speaker 1: of a centurion, at least voluntarily. Peter and his companions 254 00:17:19,330 --> 00:17:23,889 Speaker 1: entered the courtyard. He saw Cornelius with his family and friends. 255 00:17:25,210 --> 00:17:29,190 Speaker 1: He wore Roman robes with Caesar's seal pinned. 256 00:17:28,820 --> 00:17:29,429 Speaker 6: To the sash. 257 00:17:30,780 --> 00:17:34,800 Speaker 1: Peter winced at the sight of him. He had been 258 00:17:34,859 --> 00:17:39,679 Speaker 1: conditioned to avoid the Romans his whole life. Now he 259 00:17:39,720 --> 00:17:44,820 Speaker 1: was preparing to preach the gospel to them. Cornelius perked 260 00:17:44,940 --> 00:17:49,120 Speaker 1: up at the sight of Peter. His shoulders swung back, 261 00:17:49,840 --> 00:17:53,919 Speaker 1: and he began to run forward. Peter braced himself for 262 00:17:53,960 --> 00:17:59,899 Speaker 1: an attack. But instead, Cornelius ran forward and fell at 263 00:17:59,980 --> 00:18:05,560 Speaker 1: Peter's feet. Everyone gasped at the sight of it. Cornelius, 264 00:18:06,140 --> 00:18:10,359 Speaker 1: a man of power and prestige, bowed in front of 265 00:18:10,400 --> 00:18:12,800 Speaker 1: an uneducated Galilean Jew. 266 00:18:13,380 --> 00:18:16,290 Speaker 3: Praise you, Peter. Praise you for coming. 267 00:18:17,260 --> 00:18:22,520 Speaker 1: Peter's eyes widened. He laughed nervously and grabbed Cornelius by 268 00:18:22,560 --> 00:18:23,060 Speaker 1: the shoulders. 269 00:18:23,760 --> 00:18:27,340 Speaker 2: No, no, please stand up. I'm a man just like you. 270 00:18:27,840 --> 00:18:30,669 Speaker 1: Cornelius stood up and cast a shadow down over him. 271 00:18:31,950 --> 00:18:34,430 Speaker 1: Peter was used to being the tallest man in the room, 272 00:18:35,310 --> 00:18:39,550 Speaker 1: but this centurion stood nearly a head taller. He was 273 00:18:39,609 --> 00:18:45,209 Speaker 1: broad-shouldered and chiseled from head to toe. Peter cleared his 274 00:18:45,270 --> 00:18:47,260 Speaker 1: throat and and gestured. 275 00:18:46,940 --> 00:18:51,119 Speaker 2: To his family. Come, gather round, for I believe the 276 00:18:51,180 --> 00:18:52,960 Speaker 2: Lord has a word for us all today. 277 00:18:53,560 --> 00:18:58,240 Speaker 1: Everyone gathered round Peter. The cypress trees in the courtyard 278 00:18:58,330 --> 00:19:02,330 Speaker 1: cast a pleasant shadow over the group. He looked around, 279 00:19:03,390 --> 00:19:06,129 Speaker 1: realizing what God had been trying to show him. 280 00:19:07,030 --> 00:19:10,150 Speaker 2: You all know that it's unlawful for a Jew to 281 00:19:10,230 --> 00:19:15,570 Speaker 2: associate with or visit anyone of another nation. To Jews... 282 00:19:15,740 --> 00:19:20,600 Speaker 2: You are all considered unclean. But God has shown me 283 00:19:20,640 --> 00:19:25,899 Speaker 2: that I shouldn't call anyone common or unclean. So, when 284 00:19:25,920 --> 00:19:30,350 Speaker 2: your companion sent for me, I came without objection. Peter 285 00:19:30,410 --> 00:19:34,250 Speaker 2: gestured to Cornelius. Now tell me, friend, why have you 286 00:19:34,290 --> 00:19:34,770 Speaker 2: sent for me? 287 00:19:35,390 --> 00:19:39,590 Speaker 1: Cornelius was standing at attention. He was leaning forward as 288 00:19:39,670 --> 00:19:42,650 Speaker 1: if Peter was about to feed him something delicious. 289 00:19:43,290 --> 00:19:46,939 Speaker 3: Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in 290 00:19:46,980 --> 00:19:50,619 Speaker 3: my home. As I was praying, a man... stood before 291 00:19:50,660 --> 00:19:54,340 Speaker 3: me in bright clothing. I perceived him to be an 292 00:19:54,619 --> 00:19:57,619 Speaker 3: angel sent from heaven. He told me to find you. 293 00:19:58,220 --> 00:20:02,960 Speaker 3: And now I and my household are here in the 294 00:20:03,020 --> 00:20:07,119 Speaker 3: presence of God to hear what you have been commanded 295 00:20:07,200 --> 00:20:07,780 Speaker 3: to preach. 296 00:20:08,440 --> 00:20:08,980 Speaker 6: Amazing. 297 00:20:09,810 --> 00:20:14,210 Speaker 2: I guess God doesn't show partiality. Every nation who fears 298 00:20:14,250 --> 00:20:17,669 Speaker 2: him and seeks righteousness will be accepted before him. 299 00:20:18,109 --> 00:20:22,410 Speaker 1: Peter stretched out his arms and greeted them as family, saying. 300 00:20:23,050 --> 00:20:25,730 Speaker 2: This is the word I have come to preach. It 301 00:20:25,790 --> 00:20:30,790 Speaker 2: is good news, and that news is peace. Peace through 302 00:20:30,810 --> 00:20:35,409 Speaker 2: a knowledge of Jesus Christ, Lord of all. Many of 303 00:20:35,450 --> 00:20:39,490 Speaker 2: you have probably heard his name. He became famous Famous 304 00:20:39,550 --> 00:20:43,300 Speaker 2: throughout Judea, he was a man of great works and healing. 305 00:20:44,080 --> 00:20:47,860 Speaker 8: He cast out demons and preached liberty to the captives. 306 00:20:48,920 --> 00:20:53,179 Speaker 8: God was truly with him. I and my companions are 307 00:20:53,220 --> 00:20:57,400 Speaker 8: witnesses of all that he did. But not all were 308 00:20:57,440 --> 00:21:01,310 Speaker 8: amazed by his words and words. He was put to 309 00:21:01,369 --> 00:21:02,929 Speaker 8: death on a cross. 310 00:21:04,070 --> 00:21:04,570 Speaker 3: But.... 311 00:21:05,950 --> 00:21:09,510 Speaker 2: God raised him from the dead. Three days later, we 312 00:21:09,590 --> 00:21:13,410 Speaker 2: bore witness to his resurrection. We ate with him, communed 313 00:21:13,450 --> 00:21:18,109 Speaker 2: with him, and felt his embrace. He truly rose from 314 00:21:18,130 --> 00:21:23,669 Speaker 2: the dead. Now, we all testify to his life. He 315 00:21:23,710 --> 00:21:26,230 Speaker 2: has been appointed by God to be judge of the 316 00:21:26,320 --> 00:21:28,200 Speaker 2: living and the dead. 317 00:21:28,760 --> 00:21:32,060 Speaker 1: Peter paused, turned to Cornelius, and said. 318 00:21:32,680 --> 00:21:35,790 Speaker 2: I've been told you are a God-fearing man, and... have 319 00:21:35,850 --> 00:21:40,270 Speaker 2: read the prophets. They bear witness that everyone who believes 320 00:21:40,350 --> 00:21:44,530 Speaker 2: in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name. 321 00:21:45,130 --> 00:21:50,330 Speaker 1: As Peter spoke, people began to stir. The Spirit of 322 00:21:50,430 --> 00:21:55,130 Speaker 1: God was in their midst, moving hearts and stirring souls. 323 00:21:56,990 --> 00:22:00,040 Speaker 1: The Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 324 00:22:01,119 --> 00:22:04,200 Speaker 1: They began to speak in tongues and praise the Lord 325 00:22:04,240 --> 00:22:11,169 Speaker 1: with passion Peter and his companions watched in amazement as 326 00:22:11,410 --> 00:22:18,890 Speaker 1: uncircumcised Gentiles received Christ into their hearts and immediately poured 327 00:22:18,950 --> 00:22:23,310 Speaker 1: out praise. They had no idea what to make of it. 328 00:22:24,720 --> 00:22:28,700 Speaker 1: Up until now, only Jews had received Christ, but now 329 00:22:29,520 --> 00:22:33,629 Speaker 1: something new was at work. something that penetrated through the 330 00:22:33,869 --> 00:22:37,210 Speaker 1: walls of race, culture, class, or creed. 331 00:22:38,030 --> 00:22:41,270 Speaker 3: Praise be to God and the Father of our Lord 332 00:22:41,390 --> 00:22:45,620 Speaker 3: Jesus Christ. He has filled us. He has come. 333 00:22:46,540 --> 00:22:48,500 Speaker 1: Peter turned back to his companions. 334 00:22:49,220 --> 00:22:51,840 Speaker 2: You see and hear it, don't you? How could we 335 00:22:51,920 --> 00:22:56,879 Speaker 2: possibly withhold water for baptizing these people? They've received the 336 00:22:56,940 --> 00:22:57,690 Speaker 2: Holy Spirit. 337 00:22:58,500 --> 00:23:01,639 Speaker 1: Peter and the others led Cornelius and his family down 338 00:23:01,700 --> 00:23:06,929 Speaker 1: to the water. They baptized them all, one by one. 339 00:23:09,050 --> 00:23:13,570 Speaker 1: The connection to God Cornelius had longed for had come 340 00:23:13,750 --> 00:23:19,020 Speaker 1: in the form of God's Spirit. It didn't matter whether 341 00:23:19,080 --> 00:23:24,359 Speaker 1: he was a Gentile, a Roman, or a Centurion. He 342 00:23:24,580 --> 00:23:29,659 Speaker 1: hungered for righteousness. and God filled him. 343 00:23:31,940 --> 00:23:34,899 Speaker 5: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for 344 00:23:34,960 --> 00:23:40,399 Speaker 5: they shall be satisfied. Jesus uses powerful imagery of hunger 345 00:23:40,530 --> 00:23:45,050 Speaker 5: and thirst to describe a deep, relentless longing for righteousness. 346 00:23:46,710 --> 00:23:51,790 Speaker 5: This righteousness refers to a right relationship with God, a 347 00:23:51,850 --> 00:23:54,910 Speaker 5: life lived in accordance with His will, and a pursuit 348 00:23:54,970 --> 00:23:59,790 Speaker 5: of justice and holiness. Those who hunger and thirst for 349 00:23:59,830 --> 00:24:04,450 Speaker 5: righteousness are deeply aware of the brokenness in themselves and 350 00:24:04,510 --> 00:24:08,660 Speaker 5: in the world around them. They desire to see God's justice, mercy, 351 00:24:09,020 --> 00:24:14,200 Speaker 5: and truth prevail. Jesus promises that those who earnestly seek 352 00:24:14,280 --> 00:24:20,220 Speaker 5: this righteousness will find true satisfaction in Him as their 353 00:24:20,280 --> 00:24:25,750 Speaker 5: deepest desires align with God's heart. Now, let's turn to 354 00:24:25,790 --> 00:24:31,399 Speaker 5: the story of Cornelius' conversion, found in Acts 10. Cornelius 355 00:24:31,460 --> 00:24:34,699 Speaker 5: was a Roman centurion known for his devout faith and 356 00:24:34,840 --> 00:24:40,139 Speaker 5: good deeds. Despite his status and nationality, which separated him 357 00:24:40,200 --> 00:24:46,199 Speaker 5: from the Jewish community, Cornelius earnestly sought after God. Cornelius' 358 00:24:46,270 --> 00:24:50,270 Speaker 5: life was marked by a genuine hunger and thirst for righteousness. 359 00:24:50,810 --> 00:24:53,600 Speaker 5: He was committed to prayer, acts of charity and a 360 00:24:53,660 --> 00:24:57,530 Speaker 5: deep reverence for God. His earnest seeking led to a 361 00:24:57,550 --> 00:25:01,090 Speaker 5: divine encounter where God sent Peter to preach the gospel 362 00:25:01,130 --> 00:25:05,570 Speaker 5: to him and his household. In Acts 10 verses 44 363 00:25:05,570 --> 00:25:10,230 Speaker 5: through 48, we see the culmination of this pursuit. While 364 00:25:10,290 --> 00:25:13,260 Speaker 5: Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came 365 00:25:13,359 --> 00:25:17,810 Speaker 5: on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who 366 00:25:17,850 --> 00:25:20,169 Speaker 5: had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of 367 00:25:20,210 --> 00:25:23,090 Speaker 5: the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles, 368 00:25:23,830 --> 00:25:26,470 Speaker 5: for they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. 369 00:25:27,910 --> 00:25:30,460 Speaker 5: Then Peter said, Surely no one can stand in the 370 00:25:30,500 --> 00:25:34,159 Speaker 5: way of their being baptized with water. They have received 371 00:25:34,180 --> 00:25:37,100 Speaker 5: the Holy Spirit just as we have. So he ordered 372 00:25:37,119 --> 00:25:39,480 Speaker 5: that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. 373 00:25:40,000 --> 00:25:41,940 Speaker 5: Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a 374 00:25:41,960 --> 00:25:46,369 Speaker 5: few days. Cornelius' hunger and thirst for righteousness were satisfied 375 00:25:46,450 --> 00:25:50,659 Speaker 5: in the most profound way. Through the gift of the 376 00:25:50,720 --> 00:25:54,240 Speaker 5: Holy Spirit and the full revelation of God's love and 377 00:25:54,340 --> 00:25:59,880 Speaker 5: salvation in Jesus Christ. How can we, like Cornelius, hunger 378 00:25:59,980 --> 00:26:05,189 Speaker 5: and thirst for righteousness in our everyday lives? First, it's 379 00:26:05,230 --> 00:26:09,890 Speaker 5: about committing to prayer and worship. Cornelius was a Gentile 380 00:26:09,950 --> 00:26:15,040 Speaker 5: centurion and a high-ranking official under Caesar. If anyone was 381 00:26:15,100 --> 00:26:18,879 Speaker 5: too busy or surrounded by too many distractions, it was Cornelius. 382 00:26:20,680 --> 00:26:23,750 Speaker 5: Yet he still found time to seek God. He carved 383 00:26:23,830 --> 00:26:26,530 Speaker 5: out that time like one would carve out time for 384 00:26:26,670 --> 00:26:32,250 Speaker 5: breakfast and dinner. Cornelius was devoted to prayer. We should 385 00:26:32,290 --> 00:26:35,730 Speaker 5: make prayer and worship central in our lives, seeking God's 386 00:26:35,830 --> 00:26:40,830 Speaker 5: presence and guidance daily. In that light, we see something 387 00:26:40,869 --> 00:26:45,950 Speaker 5: within Cornelius' prayer life. and that's seeking God's will. Sure, 388 00:26:46,030 --> 00:26:50,149 Speaker 5: we may habitually pray, attend church, and sing songs, but 389 00:26:50,410 --> 00:26:55,350 Speaker 5: are we truly seeking God's will? It's one thing to pray, God, 390 00:26:55,530 --> 00:26:57,609 Speaker 5: this is what I desire. Please give it to me. 391 00:26:58,310 --> 00:27:01,230 Speaker 5: And another thing to pray, God, what is it that 392 00:27:01,310 --> 00:27:04,690 Speaker 5: you desire? Please show me so that I can give 393 00:27:04,730 --> 00:27:09,230 Speaker 5: it to you. Our hunger and thirst for righteousness should 394 00:27:09,310 --> 00:27:12,230 Speaker 5: drive us to seek God's will in all areas of 395 00:27:12,320 --> 00:27:18,090 Speaker 5: our lives. Cornelius' story teaches us that God's righteousness is inclusive. 396 00:27:19,869 --> 00:27:22,389 Speaker 5: At first, Peter had to wrestle with a Gentile to 397 00:27:22,430 --> 00:27:26,609 Speaker 5: gain such intimate access to God. But that is what 398 00:27:26,650 --> 00:27:30,250 Speaker 5: the gospel is all about. Anyone who honestly seeks after 399 00:27:30,310 --> 00:27:35,869 Speaker 5: God will find Him. Jesus says in Matthew 7, verses 400 00:27:35,869 --> 00:27:39,290 Speaker 5: 7 and 8, Ask, and it will be given to you. Seek, 401 00:27:39,590 --> 00:27:42,340 Speaker 5: and you will find. Knock, and the door will be 402 00:27:42,520 --> 00:27:47,379 Speaker 5: opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. The one 403 00:27:47,420 --> 00:27:50,679 Speaker 5: who seeks, finds. And to the one who knocks, the 404 00:27:50,720 --> 00:27:55,260 Speaker 5: door will be opened. I know there's people in my 405 00:27:55,320 --> 00:27:58,399 Speaker 5: life that I would have never expected to repent, to 406 00:27:58,440 --> 00:28:01,100 Speaker 5: give their lives to Jesus, or to change for the better. 407 00:28:02,900 --> 00:28:05,520 Speaker 5: In fact, I might have been initially angry to learn 408 00:28:05,540 --> 00:28:09,420 Speaker 5: they were teaching a Bible study or leading ministry. But 409 00:28:09,510 --> 00:28:12,970 Speaker 5: God transforms the lives of those who seek Him, regardless 410 00:28:12,990 --> 00:28:16,590 Speaker 5: of their pasts. We should reach out to those who 411 00:28:16,650 --> 00:28:20,250 Speaker 5: are different from us, breaking down barriers and sharing God's 412 00:28:20,330 --> 00:28:26,280 Speaker 5: love with everyone. Lastly, and perhaps the most difficult, is 413 00:28:26,320 --> 00:28:30,619 Speaker 5: to pursue holiness. To hunger and thirst for righteousness is 414 00:28:30,740 --> 00:28:35,959 Speaker 5: to pursue a life of holiness. This means striving to 415 00:28:36,030 --> 00:28:38,690 Speaker 5: live in a way that is pleasing to God, repenting 416 00:28:38,710 --> 00:28:43,510 Speaker 5: of our sins, and seeking to grow in Christlikeness. As 417 00:28:43,550 --> 00:28:46,950 Speaker 5: we reflect on Jesus' words, blessed are those who hunger 418 00:28:46,990 --> 00:28:51,490 Speaker 5: and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. And 419 00:28:51,530 --> 00:28:56,420 Speaker 5: the story of Cornelius' conversion. Let us strive to cultivate 420 00:28:56,500 --> 00:29:01,280 Speaker 5: a deep yearning for God's righteousness in our lives. May 421 00:29:01,300 --> 00:29:06,200 Speaker 5: we seek Him earnestly, live justly, and embrace the fullness 422 00:29:06,300 --> 00:29:09,570 Speaker 5: of His love and truth. Let us pray for the 423 00:29:09,630 --> 00:29:14,000 Speaker 5: strength and grace to be true citizens of heaven, reflecting 424 00:29:14,040 --> 00:29:18,040 Speaker 5: the character of Jesus in all that we do. Thanks 425 00:29:18,100 --> 00:29:21,130 Speaker 5: again for listening. If you haven't yet followed or subscribed 426 00:29:21,150 --> 00:29:24,650 Speaker 5: to our podcast, be sure to do so. It makes 427 00:29:24,710 --> 00:29:27,410 Speaker 5: sure you never miss an episode, but it also helps 428 00:29:27,490 --> 00:29:30,840 Speaker 5: us get discovered by more people. Thanks for joining us.