The Book of Acts

The Church in Antioch of Syria

Acts 11:19-30 _NLT

“Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews.”- Acts 11:19

            The death by stoning of the apostle Stephen seems to have been a catalyst that helped spread the gospel outside of Judea. The persecution that preceded and followed the death of Stephen had the believers scattering to other towns and cities where they boldly preached of Jesus Christ...his ministry, his death, and his resurrection. 

                  Some of those believers who went to Antioch from Cyprus began preaching to the Gentiles there. The Lord used them mightily and a great number of those there that day believed and turned their lives over to God. Word got to the church in Jerusalem, so they sent Barnabas to visit Antioch. When he arrived he could immediately see the evidence of God’s power at work. This filled him with joy. Barnabas began encouraging the new believers to stay true to what they have been taught. Antioch is the place where followers of Christ were first called Christians.

                  The joy Barnabas experienced he wished to share with brother Paul, who was currently in his hometown of Tarsus. Barnabas went and brought Paul back and both of them staying in Antioch for a year preaching and teaching the word of God.

                  There were some prophets who came to Antioch from Jerusalem. One, Agabus, stood in one of their meetings and prophesied that a great famine would come upon the entire Roman Empire. This would certainly effect the Jewish believers in Jerusalem, so the brethren in Antioch collected monies and sent it with Barnabas and Paul who then left for Jerusalem to give to their brothers and sisters in Christ there. 

                  When the body of Christ is in need, what attitude do you have toward that need? Are you glad to share if you are able? Do you give out of a sense of obligation? Do you make a show of it so others know you gave? Be mindful of this: It is not so much the giving that is important, as much as the motivation of one’s heart.  That is what matters the most to the Lord. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In his name & for his glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.