34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. (Acts 10:34-35 KJV)
William Burkitt’s Commentary
As if the apostle had said, “I now very plainly perceive, that the partition wall is broken down, and that national prerogatives, or personal excellencies, find no acceptance with God: But that any man, be he of what nation or family soever, if he feareth God, and worketh righteousness, shall find acceptance with him.”
Observe here, 1. That no external qualifications, personal privileges and prerogatives, will procure favour and acceptance with God, who neither receives nor rejects men barely for outward respects; I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.
Observe, 2. The true character of a religious man: he is one that feareth God and worketh righteousness; that is, a strict observer of the duties of both tables, of piety towards God, and of justice and charity toward man; and the phrase of working righteousness, implies diligence, and delight, and perseverance in the ways and works of righteousness.
Observe, 3. The privilege of such a religious and truly righteous man: He is accepted with God.
Thence learn, That both the person fearing God, and his works of righteousness are accepted with him, of any nation under heaven, of any calling, sex or condition whatsoever; In every nation, he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness is accepted with him.