◄ Acts 11 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Peter’s Report at Jerusalem 1The apostles and brothers throughout Judea soon heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believersa took issue with him 3and said, “You visited uncircumcised men and ate with them.” 4But Peter began and explained to them the whole sequence of events: 5“I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision of something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came right down to me. 6I looked at it closely and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles, and birds of the air. 7Then I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up, Peter, kill and eat.’ 8‘No, Lord,’ I said, ‘for nothing impureb or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9But the voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’ 10This happened three times, and everything was drawn back up into heaven. 11Just then three men sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying. 12The Spirit told me to accompany them without hesitation. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s home. 13He told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. 14He will convey to you a message by which you and all your household will be saved.’ 15As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, just as He had fallen upon us at the beginning. 16Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’c 17So if God gave them the same gift He gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to hinder the work of God?” 18When they heard this, they had no further objections, and they glorified God, saying, “So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.” The Church at Antioch 19Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews. 20But some of them, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeksd as well, proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. 22When news of this reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to abide in the Lord with all their hearts. 24Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. 25Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26and when he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. So for a full year they met together with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch. 27In those days some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28One of them named Agabus stood up and predicted through the Spirit that a great famine would sweep across the whole world.e (This happened under Claudius.) 29So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. 30This they did, sending their gifts to the elders with Barnabas and Saul. Footnotes: 2 a Literally those of the circumcision 8 b Literally common; similarly in verse 9 16 c Or ‘John baptized in water, but in a few days you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit.’ Acts 1:5 20 d Or the Hellenists 28 e Or the entire Roman world Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 11 Summary The Church at Jerusalem and Antioch Verses 1–3 – Controversy in Jerusalem News of Gentile conversions reaches the apostles and brothers in Judea. Some circumcised believers confront Peter, saying, “You visited uncircumcised men and ate with them.” Verses 4–18 – Peter’s Defense and God’s Confirmation Peter recounts his vision in Joppa, the Spirit’s command to go to Caesarea, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Cornelius’s household. He concludes, “If God gave them the same gift He gave us… who was I to hinder God?” The critics fall silent and glorify God, recognizing that repentance leading to life has also been granted to the Gentiles. Verses 19–21 – Gospel Spreads to Antioch Believers scattered after Stephen’s death travel as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. Some men from Cyprus and Cyrene preach to Greeks as well. “The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.” Verses 22–24 – Barnabas Sent to Encourage The Jerusalem church sends Barnabas to Antioch. Overjoyed by God’s grace, he exhorts everyone “to remain true to the Lord with steadfast heart.” His goodness, Spirit-filled life, and faith lead to still more conversions. Verses 25–26 – Saul Recruited for Ministry Barnabas departs for Tarsus to find Saul. Together they teach in Antioch for a full year, and “the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” Verses 27–30 – Prophecy and Relief for Judea Prophets come from Jerusalem. Agabus predicts a severe famine, which occurs during Claudius’s reign. The Antioch believers resolve to send relief to the brothers in Judea, each giving according to ability. They send it with Barnabas and Saul to the elders. Acts 11 continues the narrative of the inclusion of Gentiles into the early Christian church. The chapter features Peter defending his actions to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem, the establishment and growth of the church in Antioch, a prophecy about a worldwide famine, and the disciples' proactive response to send relief to their brethren in Jerusalem. Historical Setting • Date: Roughly AD 42-44. Claudius’s famine is corroborated by Josephus (Ant. 20.2.5) and Roman records. • Jerusalem: Headquarters of the early church; tension lingers after Stephen’s martyrdom (Acts 8:1). • Antioch of Syria: Third-largest city in the Roman world, cosmopolitan, a natural launchpad for world missions. Archaeological Insights: Antioch and Caesarea • Antioch’s broad main street, colonnaded and lit at night by oil lamps, fits Luke’s portrayal of bustling outreach. Coins and inscriptions confirm a sizable Jewish community alongside many Gentiles. • Caesarea’s aqueducts and theater stand today; Herod’s harbor allowed easy travel between Joppa, Caesarea, and Antioch, explaining the quick spread of news and messengers. Key Themes 1. God’s impartial grace (v. 17; cf. Romans 2:11). 2. The Spirit as proof of acceptance (v. 15-17; Acts 10:44-48). 3. Accountability to the wider body (v. 1-4). 4. Partnership in relief and generosity (v. 29; Romans 15:26-27; 2 Corinthians 9:12-14). 5. The birth of the term “Christian” (v. 26), likely a nickname reflecting public recognition of Christ-centered identity. Connections to the Old Testament • Isaiah 49:6 foretold salvation reaching the ends of the earth—fulfilled in Gentile inclusion. • Famine relief echoes Joseph storing grain (Genesis 41) and God using one region to bless another. • The clean/unclean issue raised in Peter’s vision mirrors God’s earlier statements to Noah: “Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you” (Genesis 9:3). Links to the Gospels and Epistles • Jesus’s Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8) is unfolding in Antioch. • Galatians 2:11-14 later shows ongoing struggles over Gentile fellowship; Acts 11 lays the groundwork for that debate. • 1 Peter 4:16 references suffering “as a Christian,” a term birthed in Acts 11. Character Profiles Peter: Bold yet teachable. His willingness to explain his actions (v. 4) preserves unity. Barnabas: “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36). Bridge-builder, sees potential in Saul (v. 25-26). Saul (Paul): Newly converted, honing teaching gifts in Antioch—training ground for future missionary journeys. Agabus: Reliable prophet; later foretells Paul’s arrest (Acts 21:10-11), proving continuity of Spirit-led insight. Lessons for the Modern Church • Celebrate, don’t criticize, when God works in unexpected places. • Keep doctrinal clarity while embracing fellowship across cultural lines. • Financial aid for believers in crisis is a timeless duty. • Encourage new believers by pairing them with mature mentors, as Barnabas did with Saul. • Wear the “Christian” name with integrity; the world still watches. Geographical Notes • Distance from Jerusalem to Antioch: about 300 miles, a two-week journey on foot, shorter by sea. • Phoenicia (modern Lebanon) and Cyprus form natural stepping-stones for mission expansion. Timeline of Acts 10-11 Events 1. Peter’s vision in Joppa (Acts 10:9-16). 2. Visit to Cornelius; Holy Spirit falls (10:24-48). 3. Return to Jerusalem; explanation (11:2-18). 4. Scattered believers reach Antioch (11:19-21). 5. Barnabas arrives, then fetches Saul (11:22-26). 6. Agabus’s prophecy and relief offering (11:27-30). Simple Word Notes • “Hinder” (v. 17, Gk. kōlyō) – to block or prevent; Peter refuses to block God’s work. • “Encourage” (v. 23, Gk. parakaleō) – to urge, comfort, or cheer on; Barnabas lives up to his nickname. • “Christians” (v. 26, Gk. Christianoi) – followers of Christ; likely coined by outsiders, later embraced by believers. Supporting Scriptures for Gentile Inclusion • Joel 2:28-32 – Spirit poured on “all people,” quoted in Acts 2. • John 10:16 – “Other sheep… they too will listen to My voice.” • Ephesians 2:14-16 – Christ breaks down the dividing wall. Closing Insight Acts 11 captures a turning point: the gospel leaps cultural walls, believers own a shared name, and practical love meets practical need. From this chapter forward, the church’s face is unmistakably global—exactly as the risen Lord intended. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 28:19-20 The Great Commission calls believers to make disciples of all nations, aligning with the inclusion of Gentiles in Acts 11. Galatians 3:28 Paul writes about the unity of believers in Christ, regardless of ethnic or social distinctions, echoing the message of Acts 11. Ephesians 2:14-18 Paul speaks of Christ breaking down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, a theme central to Acts 11. Teaching Points Peter's Defense of Gentile Inclusion Acts 11:1-18 recounts Peter's explanation to the Jerusalem church about his encounter with Cornelius, a Gentile. Peter emphasizes that the Holy Spirit was given to the Gentiles just as it was to the Jews, signifying God's acceptance of all who believe in Jesus Christ. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding and affirming the inclusion of Gentiles. Peter states, The Holy Spirit fell upon them just as He had come upon us at the beginning (Acts 11:15), highlighting the Spirit's work in breaking down barriers. The Church in Antioch Acts 11:19-26 describes the establishment of the church in Antioch, where believers were first called Christians. This church became a model of diversity and missionary zeal, with both Jews and Gentiles worshiping together. Barnabas and Saul's Ministry Barnabas is sent to Antioch and later brings Saul (Paul) to help teach the growing number of believers. Their partnership underscores the importance of mentorship and collaboration in ministry. Prophetic Insight and Generosity Agabus, a prophet, predicts a famine, prompting the church in Antioch to send relief to the believers in Judea. This act of generosity reflects the early church's commitment to caring for one another. Practical Applications Embrace Diversity Just as the early church welcomed Gentiles, we are called to embrace diversity within the body of Christ, recognizing that the Gospel is for all people. Follow the Holy Spirit's Leading Be attentive to the Holy Spirit's guidance in your life, especially when it challenges your preconceived notions or comfort zones. Mentorship and Discipleship Seek opportunities to mentor others in their faith journey, just as Barnabas did with Saul, fostering growth and unity in the church. Generosity and Support Be proactive in supporting fellow believers in need, demonstrating the love and unity that characterized the early church. People 1. Peter (Simon Peter) Peter is a leading apostle who recounts his vision and the subsequent events that led to the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian faith. In Acts 11:4, Peter begins to explain his actions to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem. The Greek name "Πέτρος" (Petros) means "rock," signifying his foundational role in the church. 2. Cornelius Although not directly mentioned in Acts 11, Cornelius is referenced through Peter's recounting of his vision and the events in Acts 10. Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is the first recorded Gentile convert to Christianity, highlighting the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jewish boundaries. 3. The Apostles and Brothers in Judea These are the Jewish believers who initially criticize Peter for associating with Gentiles (Acts 11:1-3). Their reaction underscores the early church's struggle with integrating Gentile converts. 4. Barnabas Barnabas is sent by the church in Jerusalem to Antioch to investigate the spread of the Gospel among the Gentiles (Acts 11:22-24). His name, "Βαρνάβας" (Barnabas), means "son of encouragement," reflecting his supportive role in the early church. 5. Saul (Paul) Saul, later known as Paul, is brought to Antioch by Barnabas to help teach the new believers (Acts 11:25-26). His Greek name "Σαῦλος" (Saulos) is used here, but he is more commonly known as Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. 6. Agabus Agabus is a prophet who predicts a severe famine that would affect the Roman world (Acts 11:28). His prophecy prompts the church to send relief to the believers in Judea, demonstrating the early church's communal support. Places 1. Judea Acts 11:1: "The apostles and brothers throughout Judea soon heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God." Judea is the region surrounding Jerusalem, significant as the heartland of Jewish culture and religion. The Greek term used is "Ἰουδαία" (Ioudaia). 2. Jerusalem Acts 11:2: "So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers took issue with him." Jerusalem is the central city of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple. The Greek term is "Ἱεροσόλυμα" (Hierosolyma). 3. Caesarea Acts 11:11: "Right then three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying." Caesarea was a major port city on the Mediterranean coast, known for its Roman influence. The Greek term is "Καισάρεια" (Kaisareia). 4. Phoenicia Acts 11:19: "Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews." Phoenicia refers to the coastal region north of Israel, known for its ancient maritime trade. The Greek term is "Φοινίκη" (Phoinike). 5. Cyprus Acts 11:19: "Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews." Cyprus is an island in the eastern Mediterranean, significant in early Christian missionary journeys. The Greek term is "Κύπρος" (Kypros). 6. Antioch Acts 11:19: "Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews." Antioch was a major city in ancient Syria, known for its diverse population and as a center for early Christianity. The Greek term is "Ἀντιόχεια" (Antiocheia). 7. Tarsus Acts 11:25: "Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul." Tarsus is the birthplace of Paul (Saul), located in the region of Cilicia in modern-day Turkey. The Greek term is "Ταρσός" (Tarsos). Events 1. Peter's Defense to the Jerusalem Church (Acts 11:1-3) The apostles and believers in Judea hear that Gentiles have received the word of God. When Peter returns to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticize him for eating with uncircumcised men. The Greek term "ἀκροβυστία" (akrobystia) refers to the uncircumcised, highlighting the cultural and religious divide. 2. Peter's Vision Recap (Acts 11:4-10) Peter recounts his vision in Joppa, where he saw a sheet with unclean animals. A voice told him to kill and eat, but he initially refused, citing Jewish dietary laws. The voice responded, "What God has cleansed, you must not call common." The Greek word "καθαρίζω" (katharizō) means to cleanse or purify, indicating God's authority to redefine purity. 3. The Arrival of the Men from Caesarea (Acts 11:11-12) Peter explains that three men sent from Caesarea arrived at his house, and the Spirit instructed him to go with them without hesitation. The Greek "διακρίνω" (diakrinō) means to doubt or hesitate, emphasizing the Spirit's guidance in overcoming cultural barriers. 4. Cornelius' Vision (Acts 11:13-14) Peter shares how Cornelius, a Gentile, had a vision of an angel instructing him to send for Peter, who would bring a message of salvation. The Greek "σῴζω" (sōzō) means to save, underscoring the universal offer of salvation. 5. The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles (Acts 11:15-17) As Peter began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentiles just as it had on the Jewish believers at Pentecost. Peter recalls Jesus' words about being baptized with the Holy Spirit. The Greek "βαπτίζω" (baptizō) refers to the immersion or overwhelming presence of the Spirit. 6. The Jerusalem Church's Acceptance (Acts 11:18) Upon hearing Peter's account, the Jerusalem believers glorify God, acknowledging that He has granted repentance leading to life even to the Gentiles. The Greek "μετάνοια" (metanoia) means repentance, indicating a transformative change of heart and mind. 7. The Spread of the Gospel to Antioch (Acts 11:19-21) Believers scattered by persecution preach the word to Jews and Greeks in Antioch, and a great number turn to the Lord. The Greek "ἐπιστρέφω" (epistrephō) means to turn or return, signifying conversion. 8. Barnabas Sent to Antioch (Acts 11:22-24) The Jerusalem church sends Barnabas to Antioch. He encourages the new believers to remain true to the Lord, and many more are added to the faith. The Greek "παρακαλέω" (parakaleō) means to exhort or encourage. 9. Barnabas and Saul in Antioch (Acts 11:25-26) Barnabas retrieves Saul from Tarsus, and together they teach in Antioch for a year. The disciples are first called Christians in Antioch. The Greek "Χριστιανός" (Christianos) means followers of Christ, marking a new identity for believers. 10. Prophecy of Famine (Acts 11:27-28) Prophets from Jerusalem visit Antioch, and Agabus predicts a severe famine. The Greek "λιμός" (limos) means famine, indicating a time of trial. 11. Relief Sent to Judea (Acts 11:29-30) The disciples in Antioch decide to send relief to the believers in Judea, each according to their ability. The Greek "διακονία" (diakonia) means service or ministry, reflecting the early church's commitment to mutual support. Lessons from Acts 11 1. Embrace New Revelations with Openness In Acts 11, Peter recounts his vision and the subsequent acceptance of Gentiles into the faith. This teaches us to remain open to God's guidance, even when it challenges our preconceived notions. As Peter explains, "The Spirit told me to accompany them without hesitation" (Acts 11:12). We should be ready to follow the Spirit's leading, trusting that God's plans are greater than our own. 2. Unity in Diversity The early church faced the challenge of integrating Gentile believers. Acts 11 shows us the importance of unity in diversity. "When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God" (Acts 11:18). Embracing diversity within the body of Christ strengthens our witness and reflects the inclusive love of God. 3. The Power of Testimony Peter's testimony about his vision and the Holy Spirit's work among the Gentiles was pivotal. Sharing our experiences of God's work in our lives can inspire and encourage others. "So if God gave them the same gift He gave us...who was I to hinder the work of God?" (Acts 11:17). Our stories can be powerful tools for evangelism. 4. God’s Sovereignty in Salvation Acts 11 reminds us that salvation is God's work, not ours. The believers recognized that "God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life" (Acts 11:18). This underscores the truth that it is God who draws people to Himself, and our role is to faithfully share the gospel. 5. The Importance of Accountability Peter's return to Jerusalem and his explanation to the apostles highlights the value of accountability within the church. "So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him" (Acts 11:2). Being accountable helps maintain doctrinal purity and fosters trust among believers. 6. Encouragement as a Ministry Barnabas is sent to Antioch to encourage the new believers. His actions remind us of the vital role encouragement plays in the church. "When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord" (Acts 11:23). Encouragement strengthens faith and builds community. 7. The Role of Prophets Prophets like Agabus played a crucial role in the early church by providing guidance and warning. "One of them, named Agabus, stood up and predicted by the Spirit that a great famine would sweep across the whole world" (Acts 11:28). This reminds us to value prophetic voices that align with Scripture and guide us in truth. 8. Generosity in Action The response to Agabus's prophecy was a demonstration of generosity. The disciples decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters in Judea. "Each of the disciples, according to his ability, decided to send relief" (Acts 11:29). Generosity is a tangible expression of love and unity in the body of Christ. 9. The Spread of the Gospel Acts 11 highlights the spread of the gospel beyond Jewish communities. "The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord" (Acts 11:21). This encourages us to share the gospel widely, trusting that God will bring people to faith. 10. The Church as a Sending Community The church in Antioch became a hub for missionary activity. This teaches us the importance of being a sending community, committed to spreading the gospel. "The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch" (Acts 11:26). Our identity as Christians is tied to our mission to make disciples of all nations. These lessons from Acts 11 remind us of the dynamic and transformative work of God in the early church, encouraging us to live out our faith with boldness and love. Topics 1. Peter's Explanation to the Jerusalem Church Peter recounts his vision and the events that led to the Gentiles receiving the Holy Spirit. He explains how God showed him that he should not call any man impure or unclean. This aligns with the Greek term "koinos" (κοινός), meaning common or unclean, which Peter uses to describe the vision's message. ^Acts 11:9 :^ "But the voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’" 2. The Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit Peter describes how the Holy Spirit came upon the Gentiles just as it had on the Jewish believers at Pentecost. This event signifies the breaking of traditional Jewish boundaries and the inclusion of Gentiles in the faith. ^Acts 11:15 :^ "As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, just as He had come upon us at the beginning." 3. The Church in Antioch The narrative shifts to the establishment of the church in Antioch, where believers were first called Christians. This marks a significant development in the early church's mission and identity. The Greek term "Christianoi" (Χριστιανοί) is used here, indicating followers of Christ. ^Acts 11:26 :^ "And when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch." 4. The Prophecy of Agabus Agabus, a prophet, predicts a severe famine that would spread over the entire Roman world. This prophecy prompts the church to take action in support of their fellow believers. The Greek word "prophetes" (προφήτης) is used, emphasizing the role of prophecy in the early church. ^Acts 11:28 :^ "One of them, named Agabus, stood up and predicted through the Spirit that a great famine would sweep across the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.)" 5. The Church's Response to the Famine The disciples in Antioch decide to provide help for the brothers living in Judea, demonstrating the early church's commitment to mutual support and charity. This reflects the Greek concept of "koinonia" (κοινωνία), meaning fellowship or sharing. ^Acts 11:29 :^ "So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea." Themes 1. Divine Guidance and Revelation Acts 11 begins with Peter recounting his vision from God, emphasizing the theme of divine guidance. The vision, described in verses 5-10, reveals God's will to include Gentiles in the Christian community. This theme highlights the importance of divine revelation in guiding the early Church's decisions and direction. 2. Inclusivity of the Gospel A significant theme in Acts 11 is the inclusivity of the Gospel message. In verses 17-18, Peter explains that God granted the Gentiles "the same gift" as the Jewish believers, indicating that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all, regardless of ethnic background. The Greek word "μετάνοια" (metanoia), meaning repentance, underscores the universal call to repentance and faith. 3. Unity and Acceptance in the Church The early Church's struggle with accepting Gentile believers is addressed in this chapter. In verse 18, the Jewish believers glorify God, acknowledging that "God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life." This theme of unity and acceptance is crucial as it reflects the breaking down of barriers within the Church. 4. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit's role is emphasized as a guiding and empowering force in the early Church. In verse 15, Peter recounts how the Holy Spirit came upon the Gentiles just as it had on the Jewish believers at Pentecost. The Greek term "πνεῦμα" (pneuma) for Spirit highlights the Spirit's active presence in expanding the Church. 5. Missionary Expansion Acts 11 also highlights the theme of missionary expansion. In verses 19-21, believers scattered by persecution spread the Gospel to Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, where a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. This theme underscores the Church's mission to spread the Gospel beyond its initial boundaries. 6. Encouragement and Discipleship Barnabas's role in encouraging and discipling new believers in Antioch is a key theme. In verses 22-24, Barnabas is described as a "good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith," who encourages the believers to remain true to the Lord. This theme highlights the importance of mentorship and spiritual growth within the Church. 7. Charitable Giving and Support The chapter concludes with the theme of charitable giving and support. In verses 29-30, the disciples in Antioch decide to send relief to the brothers living in Judea during a famine. This act of generosity reflects the early Church's commitment to supporting one another in times of need, embodying the Greek concept of "κοινωνία" (koinonia), or fellowship. Prayer Points Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide and empower the church to embrace diversity and unity. Ask God to help you recognize and overcome any personal biases that hinder the Gospel's reach. Pray for opportunities to mentor and disciple others, fostering growth in the body of Christ. Seek God's provision and wisdom in supporting those in need, both within and outside the church community. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do we reconcile Peter’s vision of unclean animals in Acts 11:5–10 with scientific evidence about dietary laws and hygiene at that time? 2. Why is there no archaeological or historical record confirming the exact location or the nature of Peter’s vision (Acts 11)? 3. How do we account for the apparent inconsistency between the strict Jewish dietary laws in Leviticus and the acceptance of all foods in Acts 11:9? 4. If news of Gentile conversions in Antioch (Acts 11:20–21) was so significant, why is there limited external historical documentation of such widespread events? 5. How do we reconcile Acts 11:28’s prophecy of a great famine under Claudius with scarce corroboration from contemporary sources? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Peter's defense to the Jewish believers show the importance of witnessing and testifying to God's work? 2. What significance does the conversion of Gentiles in Antioch hold in the context of Christianity's global expansion? 3. How does the narrative of the Antioch church reflect on the role of individual believers in spreading the Gospel? 4. What lessons about accepting and respecting different cultures can we glean from the believers' response to Peter's explanation? 5. How does the prophecy of Agabus demonstrate the role of prophecy in the early church? 6. How did the Antioch church respond to the prophecy of the famine, and what does it teach us about Christian charity? 7. How does Barnabas' reaction to the growing church in Antioch highlight the importance of encouragement and rejoicing in others' spiritual growth? 8. How can we model the generosity and solidarity shown by the disciples in Antioch in response to the predicted famine? 9. Why do you think the disciples were first called "Christians" in Antioch, and what implications does this title hold? 10. How does Acts 11 deepen our understanding of the growth and expansion of the early Christian church? 11. How does this chapter challenge our attitudes towards sharing the Gospel with those who are culturally or ethnically different from us? 12. What can we learn from the Jerusalem church's acceptance of Peter's explanation about his interaction with Gentiles? 13. What does the rapid growth of the Antioch church tell us about the effectiveness of diverse believers working together? 14. How does the Antioch church's response to the predicted famine inspire us to act in times of crisis today? 15. How does Barnabas' decision to involve Saul in the teaching ministry reflect on recognizing and utilizing the talents of others in the church? 16. How can we apply the spirit of unity, acceptance, and proactive response displayed in this chapter to our present-day Christian communities? 17. What does the phrase "each according to his ability" tell us about individual responsibility within a community? 18. How does the story of Acts 11 challenge your perception of Christian identity and mission? 19. How does the reception of the Gentile believers by the early Christian community inspire us to inclusivity and acceptance today? 20. How does this chapter emphasize the role of testimony and story-sharing in the spread of the Gospel? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions