King James Version

What Does Acts 10:31 Mean?

Acts 10:31 in the King James Version says “And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.” — study this verse from Acts chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.”

Acts 10:31 · KJV

Prayer

Context

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?

30

And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

31

And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

32

Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.

33

Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. The angel's message affirms that God noticed Cornelius's spiritual devotion and charitable works, though these didn't earn salvation but demonstrated genuine faith.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Thy prayer is heard indicates God's attention to Gentile devotion outside formal Judaism. Alms in remembrance echoes sacrificial language (Leviticus 2:2), suggesting God viewed Cornelius's charity as pleasing offering. Reformed theology distinguishes works as evidence of genuine faith versus works as means of earning salvation. Cornelius's devotion, though praiseworthy, still required hearing gospel for actual salvation. This distinction, established around 40 CE, became crucial for understanding faith-works relationship.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God notice sincere spiritual devotion even outside covenant community?
  2. What relationship exists between charitable works and saving faith?
  3. In what ways do good works demonstrate faith without earning salvation?
  4. How should believers understand God 'remembering' prayers and deeds?
  5. What does this passage teach about God's justice in salvation beyond ethnic boundaries?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
καὶ1 of 15

“And”

G2532

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

φησίν2 of 15

“said”

G5346

to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e., speak or say

Κορνήλιε3 of 15

“Cornelius”

G2883

cornelius, a roman

εἰσηκούσθη4 of 15

“is heard”

G1522

to listen to

σου5 of 15

“thine”

G4675

of thee, thy

ἡ6 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

προσευχὴ7 of 15

“prayer”

G4335

prayer (worship); by implication, an oratory (chapel)

καὶ8 of 15

“And”

G2532

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

αἱ9 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐλεημοσύναι10 of 15

“alms”

G1654

compassionateness, i.e., (as exercised towards the poor) beneficence, or (concretely) a benefaction

σου11 of 15

“thine”

G4675

of thee, thy

ἐμνήσθησαν12 of 15

“are had in remembrance”

G3415

to bear in mind, i.e., recollect; by implication, to reward or punish

ἐνώπιον13 of 15

“in the sight”

G1799

in the face of (literally or figuratively)

τοῦ14 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θεοῦ15 of 15

“of God”

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

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 10:31 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 10:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Acts 10:4Luke 1:13Daniel 9:23Revelation 8:3-4Isaiah 38:5Revelation 5:8

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