◄ Acts 11 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Church at Jerusalem and Antioch Acts 11 highlights the rapid growth of the early church, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries. This progression, marked by the inclusive spirit and charity among believers, underscores the essence of Christianity—love, understanding, and unity in Christ. This chapter serves as a powerful reminder that the message of God's love is universal, and the response to human needs, a crucial part of Christian discipleship. Verses 1-18: Peter Defends His Actions When Peter returns to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticize him for eating with the uncircumcised. Peter explains his vision and how the Holy Spirit fell upon the Gentiles just as it had upon them. Hearing this, the critics are silenced and glorify God, acknowledging that salvation is extended to the Gentiles. Verses 19-21: The Church in Antioch The narrative shifts to the believers scattered after Stephen's persecution, who spread the word to Jews only. However, some believers from Cyprus and Cyrene share the Gospel with Gentiles in Antioch, leading many to the Lord. Verses 22-26: Barnabas and Saul in Antioch News of the Gentile converts reaches the Jerusalem church, and they send Barnabas to Antioch. He rejoices at God's grace upon the believers, and the church grows. Barnabas fetches Saul from Tarsus, and for a year, they teach a large crowd. The disciples are first called "Christians" in Antioch. Verses 27-30: Agabus' Prophecy and Aid to Jerusalem Prophets from Jerusalem visit Antioch. One of them, Agabus, prophesies a severe worldwide famine. The disciples decide to send relief to the brothers living in Judea, each according to his ability. 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. 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions