“For He Himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in His flesh the dividing wall of hostility” Ephesians 2:14
Caesarea by the Sea or Caesarea Maritime has stunning views of the Mediterranean in addition to the awe inspiring ruins. The ruins are evidence of the splendor that once existed. Today, you can visit the Greco-Roman style deep sea harbor, hippodrome, aqueducts and amphitheater. Herod even had an indoor, Olympic sized, freshwater pool in his palace, traces of which are still visible today. An important historical fact to consider for today’s tidbit is that in the 6th century, Rome made Caesarea the capital of the Judean province and headquarters to the 10th Roman Legion. As a result the population was as much Gentile as it was Jewish.
One of those Gentiles, was Cornelius a Roman Centurion. The scriptures describe him as a devout, God-fearing man who gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly (Acts 10:2). About 24 hours prior to Peter’s vision found in Acts 10:11-16 and highlighted in last week’s tidbit, Cornelius also had a vision. In the vision, the Lord instructed him to send men to Joppa to bring back Peter to Caesarea and Cornelius was obedient to the Lord (Acts 10:3-7).
And in God’s perfect timing while Peter was pondering his vision, Cornelius’s men knocked at the door and the Spirit of the Lord assured Peter that He had sent these (Gentile) men and he was to go with them (Acts 10:19-22). Peter invited them into the house and the next day they departed for Caesarea (vs.23). The context of the relationship of Jews and Gentiles is vitally important to understand in this time of the New Testament. The Jewish people were not to associate with idolaters or unclean people under any circumstances, much less invite them into their home. It would have been an abomination and the Gentiles didn’t view the Jews any more favorable. What the Lord was asking Peter to do was not your run of the mill evangelizing mission. The work of the Messiah within the context of this setting becomes all the more astounding. He took down the wall of separation with His death on the cross. Peter shared his vision and preached the Gospel when he arrived at Cornelius’ home to him and all who were gathered. While Peter was preaching, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Gentiles and the Jewish Believers were amazed.
Many important events and prestigious people fill the history pages of Caesarea by the Sea but none can compare to Peter’s encounter with Cornelius and his declaration, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation He accepts those who fear Him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel-that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.” (Acts 10:34-36) In our world today where there seems to be no end to strife and hostility on all fronts, it’s more important than ever to remember the miracle that occurred in Caesarea for all people and that peace is only found in and through Jesus. He Himself is the Good News. And that’s your Tuesday Tidbit.