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What the Fathers say
Eastern Fathers
John Chrysostom
This man is not a Jew, nor of those under the Law, but he had already forestalled our manner of life. Observe, thus far, two persons, both of high rank, receiving the faith, the eunuch at Gaza and this man; and the pains taken on behalf of these men. But do not imagine that this was because of their high rank: God forbid! it was because of their piety. …
Theophylact of Ohrid
This Cornelius was neither a Jew nor one of those under the Law, and yet he already led the same way of life as we do. Here already two people invested with honors believe in Christ — the treasurer of the Ethiopian woman and this one, "a devout man who feared God with all his household." We do not care for our household members, but this man cared even for the soldiers. …
Oecumenius
They do not mention that both the Ethiopian and Cornelius held office, but that by their wealth and the influence surrounding them they were not hindered from living devoutly. This man therefore is not a Jew, nor under the laws, but already had anticipated our way of life. Seeing him, the eye of simple-mindedness, that his deeds are fine but dead and yet he has no faith, sends a representative to judge the deeds, so as to crown with faith one who competes well. …
Western Saints
Bede
Now there was a certain man in Caesarea, named Cornelius, etc. One attains virtues not through virtues to faith, but through faith to virtues, as blessed Pope Gregory explains. For Cornelius (he says), whose alms were praised by an angel's witness before baptism, came not to faith through works, but to works through faith. For he had believed in the true God even before baptism, whom was he praying to? Or how had almighty God heard him, if he had not revealed himself to be perfected in goodness? …
Cassiodorus
"And there was a certain man in Caesarea, named Cornelius," etc. Cornelius, a Gentile living in Caesarea, devoted to almsdeeds and prayers, saw in a vision an angel of God saying to him: "Thy prayers and almsdeeds have reached the sight of the Lord: send men to Joppe to Peter, who lodgeth at the house of Simon the tanner, and have him come quickly to save thee." Meanwhile, as Peter in that house, about the sixth hour of the day, was hungry and desirous to taste somewhat, there came upon him an ecstasy of mind; and he saw a vessel …
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