King James Version

What Does Acts 10:27 Mean?

Acts 10:27 in the King James Version says “And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. — study this verse from Acts chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Acts 10:27 · KJV


Context

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?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. The casual conversation while entering demonstrates Peter's growing comfort with Gentile interaction, while the gathered crowd shows widespread spiritual hunger.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Peter's willingness to enter Gentile home marked dramatic departure from Jewish purity laws forbidding such association. The many gathered represented Cornelius's social network—Roman military colleagues, family, servants, friends. This cosmopolitan gathering in Caesarea around 40 CE created unprecedented audience for apostolic gospel—Gentiles hearing directly from Jesus' closest disciple about salvation through Christ.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does informal conversation facilitate building relationships across cultural divides?
  2. What does the gathered crowd reveal about spiritual hunger in unexpected places?
  3. In what ways does God prepare receptive audiences for gospel proclamation?
  4. How should ministers adapt to diverse audiences while maintaining gospel integrity?
  5. What role does social influence play in creating opportunities for mass evangelism?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
καὶ1 of 8

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

συνομιλῶν2 of 8

as he talked

G4926

to converse mutually

αὐτῷ3 of 8

with him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

εἰσῆλθεν4 of 8

he went in

G1525

to enter (literally or figuratively)

καὶ5 of 8

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

εὑρίσκει6 of 8

found

G2147

to find (literally or figuratively)

συνεληλυθότας7 of 8

that were come together

G4905

to convene, depart in company with, associate with, or (specially), cohabit (conjugally)

πολλούς8 of 8

many

G4183

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Acts 10:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Acts 10:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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