Acts 21:19

Paul greeted them and recounted one by one the things that God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.

Study Bible

Paul greeted them
The act of greeting here is more than a simple salutation; it is a gesture of fellowship and unity. In the Greek, the word used is "ἀσπάζομαι" (aspazomai), which implies a warm and affectionate welcome. This reflects the early Christian practice of embracing one another as family, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries. Paul's greeting signifies his respect and love for the Jerusalem church leaders, emphasizing the unity of the body of Christ despite diverse backgrounds.

recounted one by one
The phrase "recounted one by one" indicates a detailed and methodical sharing of events. The Greek word "ἐκτίθημι" (ektithēmi) suggests a systematic presentation, akin to laying out evidence. This careful recounting underscores the importance of testimony in the early church. By sharing specific instances of God's work, Paul not only glorifies God but also strengthens the faith of the listeners, providing them with tangible evidence of the Gospel's power.

the things that God had done
This phrase highlights the divine agency in Paul's ministry. The Greek word "ποιέω" (poieō) for "done" emphasizes actions that are purposeful and effective. Paul attributes the success of his mission to God's direct intervention, reinforcing the belief that all achievements in ministry are ultimately the work of God. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the sovereignty and active presence of God in the spread of the Gospel.

among the Gentiles
The mention of "Gentiles" is significant in the context of the early church's mission. The Greek term "ἔθνος" (ethnos) refers to nations or peoples distinct from the Jewish community. Paul's ministry among the Gentiles fulfills the prophetic vision of the Gospel reaching all nations, as seen in Isaiah 49:6. This inclusion of the Gentiles marks a pivotal shift in salvation history, demonstrating the universal scope of God's redemptive plan.

through his ministry
The phrase "through his ministry" underscores the role of human agency in God's work. The Greek word "διακονία" (diakonia) for "ministry" conveys the idea of service and stewardship. Paul's ministry is portrayed as a conduit for God's actions, highlighting the partnership between divine initiative and human obedience. This serves as an inspiration for believers to faithfully serve as instruments of God's will, trusting that He works through their efforts to accomplish His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who played a significant role in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. In this passage, he is recounting his missionary work.

2. Jerusalem
The city where Paul is meeting with the elders of the church to report on his ministry.

3. Gentiles
Non-Jewish people who were receiving the Gospel message through Paul's ministry.

4. The Elders
Leaders of the Jerusalem church who are receiving Paul's report.

5. Paul's Ministry
The missionary journeys and efforts of Paul to spread the Gospel, particularly focusing on the Gentiles.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Testimony
Sharing what God has done in our lives can encourage and strengthen the faith of others. Paul’s recounting of his ministry serves as a powerful testimony to God’s work.

Unity in the Body of Christ
Paul’s report to the Jerusalem church highlights the importance of unity and accountability within the church. It reminds us to work together for the Gospel, regardless of cultural or ethnic differences.

God’s Sovereignty in Ministry
Paul attributes the success of his ministry to God, reminding us that any achievements in ministry are due to God’s power and grace, not our own efforts.

The Role of Leadership
The elders’ role in receiving Paul’s report shows the importance of church leadership in guiding and supporting ministry efforts.

Encouragement through God’s Work
Hearing about God’s work among the Gentiles would have been encouraging to the Jewish believers, reminding us that God’s plan is inclusive and expansive.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul’s recounting of his ministry among the Gentiles encourage us to share our own testimonies with others?

2. In what ways can we ensure unity and accountability within our own church communities, as seen in Paul’s interaction with the Jerusalem elders?

3. How can we recognize and celebrate God’s sovereignty in our personal and communal ministry efforts?

4. What role do church leaders play in supporting and guiding ministry, and how can we support them in their efforts?

5. How can hearing about God’s work in different cultural contexts encourage and strengthen our faith today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 14:27
This verse describes a similar situation where Paul and Barnabas report to the church in Antioch about their missionary work among the Gentiles, highlighting the theme of sharing God's work.

Romans 15:18-19
Paul speaks about his ministry to the Gentiles, emphasizing that it is through Christ that he has accomplished his work.

Galatians 2:7-9
Paul discusses his mission to the Gentiles and the support he received from the Jerusalem apostles, showing unity in the early church.

Acts 15:12
The assembly listens to Paul and Barnabas as they describe the signs and wonders God performed among the Gentiles, reinforcing the importance of testimony.

1 Corinthians 3:6-7
Paul acknowledges that it is God who gives the growth, underscoring the divine nature of his ministry's success.