How does Cornelius exemplify the object of God's grace?

In Acts 10, Cornelius is depicted as a devout man who fears God, gives alms, and prays continually. Despite these commendable traits, he represents an example of how human efforts cannot earn salvation. God's grace is shown as He sends an angel to instruct Cornelius to seek Peter, a preacher, who would share the message of Christ with him. This narrative emphasizes that even the most righteous actions are insufficient for salvation; it is through Christ alone that one can be saved. Cornelius’ story illustrates the necessity of grace by demonstrating that it is not about our deeds but about Christ’s sacrificial work and God’s sovereign choice to save through grace.