Peter and Cornelius — God Shows No Favoritism
Scripture: Acts 10:1-48
Theme: The Gospel is for every nation and every person
Age Group: PreK-K (Ages 3-5)
Overview
Lesson Overview: Today’s Bible story is about Peter and Cornelius, two people who didn’t know each other but both loved God. Cornelius was a Gentile (a non-Jewish man) who prayed and did good things, while Peter was a Jewish man who had never been to Cornelius’ home. God surprised them both by showing them a vision about cleaning unclean food, Peter didn’t understand at first, but then the Holy Spirit told him to go with Cornelius. At last, Peter ate the food (which was forbidden for Jews!) and saw that God welcomes everyone, no matter where they come from. This story teaches us that Jesus loves all people, just like God does, no one is left out! Optional reflection: children can draw a picture of Jesus helping their friends, then share one way they can help someone else this week. This extra activity supports the lesson’s theme and gives teachers a simple, lowprep option for extending the discussion.
Bible Story
Long ago, in the city of Caesarea, there lived a man named Cornelius, a good and God-fearing man. Cornelius was a soldier who made his living by protecting others. Though he was not a Jew, he loved the God of Israel and did what was right. He often prayed to God and gave to those in need, hoping one day he would meet Jesus and hear His voice.
One evening, as Cornelius prayed and watched the sun set, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a vision. The angel said, ‘Cornelius! Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been heard! Now send for Simon Peter! He will tell you about God’s great news!’ Cornelius was very excited. He sent messengers to tell Peter where to find him.
Meanwhile, in Judea, Peter was walking through the city with his friends. Suddenly, the Lord put a vision in his mind: He saw a great sheet filled with all kinds of animals, birds, and even reptiles! A voice said, ‘Peter, get up! There is no wrong thing in those animals, I have commanded them to be clean!’ Peter was confused but obeyed.
Just then, three men arrived at Peter’s house, sent by Cornelius. ‘We have come for Peter,’ they said. Peter hesitated, but the Holy Spirit told him, ‘Look! Three men you sent have arrived. Get up, go down, and go with them!’ So Peter went down to meet Cornelius, who was waiting outside. Cornelius bowed down to Peter in worship, saying, ‘I know you are a man who fears God!’ Peter replied, ‘You will hear what God has done!
Inside, Peter explained to Cornelius and his friends how God does not pick favorites. ‘God shows no favoritism,’ Peter said. ‘He accepts everyone who truly loves Him and does what is good.’ Cornelius and his family listened, and Peter told them about Jesus, the Savior who saves everyone, even those from far away! Cornelius and his family were filled with the Holy Spirit and prayed together. They celebrated that day because God’s love is for everyone!
Discussion Questions
- Who is God’s friend? (Peter, Cornelius, Kids).
- What does God give to everyone that is the same? (Love, Hugs, Help)
- Can God help if someone looks different? (Yes).
- What do we do to help our friends? (Hugs, Smiles, Kind words).
- Who can God help if they are new? (Peter, Cornelius, Kids).
Missions Spotlight
The caste system in India has divided people for thousands of years. Missionaries share Peter’s vision and the story of Cornelius to show that in Christ, there is no caste. The Gospel is breaking down barriers across India.
To the Cross
Peter learned that God doesn’t show favoritism , the Gospel is for everyone. The cross broke down every wall: Jew and Gentile, slave and free, male and female. Because of the cross, we are all one in Christ Jesus.
Family Take-Home
Through the story of Peter and Cornelius, your child learned that God treat treats everyone equally and shows no favoritism. The Gospel is meant for al all nations and people, regardless of their background. You can encourage y your child to ask, “What can we do to share God’s love with others in our c community?”