did Cornelius look like a holy man ? why give reasons?
Answers
When was Cornelius Saved?
A study of matters directly pertaining to salvation is always a profitable exercise. One way to ascertain matters pertaining to man's salvation is by studying specific examples that are generally applicable to all men. The case of Cornelius is certainly applicable in the matter of his salvation and how such was obtained. Let us begin by noticing that there is no doubt as to the salvation of Cornelius (cp. Acts 11: 14). After having said this, I immediately agree that there are peripheral matters relative to Cornelius that did not involve his salvation. Many of these particulars we shall notice in the course of our study. The thrust of this study is to establish and set forth when salvation is obtained and what is essential and non-essential in the obtainment of salvation. Cornelius, as we shall see, had many outstanding traits. The question is which one or ones of these traits constituted his immediate salvation? A hint as to the correct answer is found in Acts 11: 14:
"Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved" (this is what the angel told Cornelius).
Let us now notice some of the mentioned traits regarding Cornelius and see if he was saved in connection with the acquisition or possession of that trait(s).
Cornelius was devout? (The question mark asks if this is when he was saved, when he became devout.) We are expressly told that Cornelius was devout (Acts 10: 2). Devout is derived from the Greek eusebes and means, "reverence exhibited especially in actions" (Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words). Most of the world would certainly think that such a condition and characteristic as "devoutness" would constitute salvation. However, simply within itself, it does not. I say this because the words Cornelius had to hear for his salvation followed the description of devoutness in Acts 10: 2.
Cornelius feared God? Again, the Holy Spirit makes it certain as to the fact that Cornelius feared God (Acts 10: 2). Cornelius believed in God. Yet, Cornelius was not saved at this time (cp. Acts 10: 2 and Acts 11: 14). Therefore, the teaching of salvation by faith only is not biblically sound.
Cornelius was the head of his house? It is becoming more difficult to find men who assume headship and leadership in the family circumstance. However, Cornelius was the head of his house (Acts 10: 2). Many think if a man is a good husband and father, he is saved. Such is not necessarily so (Acts 10: 2, 11: 14).
Cornelius gave much alms to the people? Cornelius was a very generous man. His generosity apparently abounded as the result of a good and caring heart (Acts 10: 2). Notwithstanding, his generosity did not save him (Acts 10: 2, 11: 14).
Cornelius was a praying man? Not only did Cornelius pray, but we are told that he, "…prayed always" (Acts 10: 2). Prayer is part of being saved, but prayerfulness within itself does not mean one is saved (cp. Prov. 28: 9).
Cornelius' prayers were heard by God? Acts 10: 3, 4 says that Cornilius' prayers constituted a memorial before God. Hence, God was aware of his prayers. Many would conclude that in view of God hearing the prayers of Cornelius, he must have been saved. Indeed, in a general sense, answered prayer belongs to the saved (I Jn. 3: 22). However, Cornelius was evidently seeking a proper relationship with God and it appears that in this circumstance, God heard him. Yet, Cornelius was not saved in the time frame of Acts 10: 3, 4 (Acts 11: 14).