How does Acts 11:20 inspire us to share the gospel with others? A snapshot of the scene Acts 11:20: “But some of them, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeks also, proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus.” • Persecution had scattered believers (Acts 11:19). • Most shared only with fellow Jews, but “some of them” crossed cultural lines. • Their simple obedience opened the door for the first large‐scale Gentile church. What stands out in the verse • “Some of them” – unnamed, ordinary disciples; no apostles present. • “Went to Antioch” – they took initiative, traveling 300+ miles north of Jerusalem. • “Began speaking to the Greeks also” – intentional outreach to people unlike themselves. • “Proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus” – the core message remained Christ-centered. How the verse motivates us to share today • God uses everyday believers – If nameless refugees could shape history, so can we (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29). • Cross-cultural courage – The gospel is for “everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). – Fear of difference melts when love for Christ rules (2 Timothy 1:7). • Intentional engagement – They “went” and “began speaking.” Evangelism is an active verb (Mark 16:15). • Focus on Jesus, not ourselves – The good news is about “the Lord Jesus,” not personal opinions (1 Corinthians 2:2). • Confidence in God’s backing – “The hand of the Lord was with them” (Acts 11:21). Results rest on His power, not ours. Timeless principles for evangelism 1. Start where you are, but don’t stay there. 2. Look for people outside your normal circle. 3. Keep the message centered on Christ’s death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). 4. Trust God for the harvest; our task is sowing (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). Practical steps for modern believers • List three acquaintances of a different background and initiate a friendly conversation about faith. • Use everyday settings—coffee breaks, school runs, online groups—to “speak to the Greeks also.” • Share a concise testimony that highlights Jesus as Lord. • Partner with another believer for accountability and encouragement (Luke 10:1). • Pray specifically for the Holy Spirit to open doors and hearts (Colossians 4:3). Encouragement as we go Matthew 28:19-20 reminds us, “Go and make disciples of all nations… and surely I am with you always.” The same Lord who empowered those first Antioch evangelists walks with us today. Step out; He will do the rest. |
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