The answer is: Cornelius

Acts 10 - God had revealed to Peter in a vision that the Gentiles were no longer 'unclean' and Cornelius was the first to benefit.

Isn't it fascinating how the story of Cornelius flips the script on what people believed about purity and who could receive God's blessing? Picture this: here’s a Roman centurion—someone from a culture that devout Jews typically looked down upon—being handpicked by God to be the first Gentile baptised. This wasn’t just a small act; it symbolically widened the door for all non-Jewish people to hear and accept the gospel.

Peter’s vision, featuring a large sheet filled with all sorts of animals, famously reveals God’s message that nothing He has made is unclean. What a twist that must have been for Peter, who was trained in strict dietary laws! It’s almost like God was saying, “Hey, the times are changing, and it's time for you to rethink how you see others.”

Cornelius’s story doesn’t end with just individual salvation; it hints at a much larger tapestry being woven. Think about it: when we acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of all people, we reflect a fuller image of humanity, just like the early followers of Jesus did when they realized that God’s love knows no borders.

Plus, isn’t it interesting that Cornelius was not only commended for his faith but also for his good deeds towards others (Acts 10:4)? It serves as a reminder that actions count alongside faith, shaping an ethos that embraces inclusivity. Can you imagine the ripple effect his baptism had on spreading the message beyond the confines of traditional Jewish communities? Go ahead, imagine—that's the spirit of stories like Cornelius!