Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Acts 10:5

"And now send men to Joppa, and fetch one Simon, who is surnamed Peter:" — Acts 10:5 (ASV)

Cornelius was told to send to Joppa for Simon Peter. The surname Peter distinguishes the apostle from his host Simon the tanner, whose house was by the sea. No indication is given as to why Peter was to be summoned. Instead, the emphasis is on the fact that Cornelius was prepared to respond to God.