Acts 16:15

And when she and her household had been baptized, she urged us, "If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us.

Study Bible

And when she and her household had been baptized
The phrase "had been baptized" signifies a public declaration of faith and commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the early church, baptism was a significant rite of passage, symbolizing purification and the washing away of sins. The Greek word for baptized, "baptizó," means to immerse or submerge, indicating a full commitment to the faith. The inclusion of "her household" suggests that Lydia's influence extended to those under her care, reflecting the communal nature of early Christian conversions. This communal baptism underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, not just for individuals but for entire families and communities.

she urged us
The word "urged" comes from the Greek "parakaleó," which means to call to one's side, to comfort, or to exhort. Lydia's insistence reflects her earnest desire to serve and support the apostles. Her hospitality is a testament to her genuine conversion and the immediate fruit of her faith. In the cultural context of the time, offering hospitality was a significant gesture, often involving considerable sacrifice and effort. Lydia's urging demonstrates her commitment to the Christian community and her role as a supporter of the early church.

If you consider me a believer in the Lord
This phrase highlights Lydia's newfound identity in Christ. The term "believer" is derived from the Greek "pistos," meaning faithful or trustworthy. Lydia's statement is both a declaration of her faith and a request for validation from the apostles. By identifying as a "believer in the Lord," Lydia aligns herself with the early Christian community and its mission. Her faith is not just personal but is recognized and affirmed by the apostolic authority, which was crucial for the early church's unity and growth.

come and stay at my house
Lydia's invitation to "come and stay" is an act of hospitality and service, reflecting the early Christian practice of supporting itinerant preachers and missionaries. In the ancient world, hospitality was a sacred duty, and Lydia's offer would have provided the apostles with a base of operations and a place of rest. Her home likely became a center for Christian fellowship and teaching, contributing to the spread of the Gospel in Philippi. This act of hospitality is a practical expression of her faith and a model for Christian service.

And she persuaded us
The word "persuaded" comes from the Greek "peithó," meaning to convince or win over. Lydia's ability to persuade the apostles indicates her determination and the sincerity of her offer. It also reflects the apostles' recognition of her faith and the importance of community support in their mission. Lydia's persuasion is a testament to her character and the work of the Holy Spirit in her life, enabling her to play a pivotal role in the early church's expansion. Her account is an inspiration for believers to use their resources and influence for the advancement of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Lydia
A seller of purple goods from the city of Thyatira, Lydia is described as a worshiper of God. She is the first recorded convert to Christianity in Europe and plays a significant role in the early church by offering hospitality to Paul and his companions.

2. Paul and his companions
Paul, along with Silas, Timothy, and Luke, is on his second missionary journey. They are in Philippi, a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony.

3. Philippi
A significant city in Macedonia where Paul and his companions preach the Gospel. It is here that Lydia and her household are baptized, marking the beginning of the Philippian church.

4. Baptism
The act of baptism signifies Lydia's and her household's acceptance of the Gospel and their public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ.

5. Hospitality
Lydia's invitation to Paul and his companions to stay at her house demonstrates the early Christian practice of hospitality and the communal nature of the early church.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Baptism
Baptism is a public declaration of faith and an important step in the believer's journey. Lydia's baptism signifies her commitment to Christ and sets an example for new believers.

The Role of Women in the Early Church
Lydia's conversion and hospitality highlight the significant role women played in the early church. Her leadership and support were crucial to the spread of the Gospel.

Hospitality as a Christian Virtue
Lydia's invitation to Paul and his companions underscores the importance of hospitality in the Christian life. Believers are called to open their homes and hearts to others, fostering community and support.

Faith and Action
Lydia's faith is demonstrated through her actions—her baptism and her hospitality. True faith is always accompanied by action, reflecting a transformed life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Lydia's conversion and baptism reflect the early church's practice of evangelism and discipleship?

2. In what ways can we emulate Lydia's example of hospitality in our own lives and communities today?

3. How does the role of women like Lydia in the early church challenge or affirm our understanding of women's roles in the church today?

4. What does Lydia's account teach us about the relationship between faith and works in the Christian life?

5. How can the practice of hospitality serve as a tool for evangelism and community building in the modern church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2:41-42
This passage describes the early church's practice of baptism and fellowship, similar to Lydia's conversion and hospitality.

1 Corinthians 1:16
Paul mentions baptizing the household of Stephanas, showing the practice of household baptisms in the early church.

Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages believers to show hospitality, reflecting Lydia's actions in welcoming Paul and his companions.