How did the church in Jerusalem respond to news of Gentile conversions in Acts 11:22? Setting the Scene - Acts 11:19-21 recounts believers scattered by persecution after Stephen’s death. - Some traveled to Antioch, preaching “to Greeks as well,” and “a great number … believed and turned to the Lord” (v. 21). - This was the first large-scale turning of uncircumcised Gentiles to Christ outside Judea. What the Jerusalem Church Heard - “When news of this reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem …” (Acts 11:22). • Reports of Gentile conversions came swiftly, likely through visiting disciples and traveling merchants. • These Gentiles had embraced the Lord without first becoming Jewish proselytes. Their Immediate Action: Sending Barnabas - “… they sent Barnabas to Antioch.” (Acts 11:22) • No delay, no committee debates—action was prompt. • The goal: verify the grace of God, encourage new believers, and safeguard sound doctrine. • This mirrors an earlier pattern: “When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them” (Acts 8:14). Why Barnabas? - His given name was Joseph, but the apostles called him Barnabas—“Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36). - A Levite from Cyprus, he was culturally equipped to bridge Jewish and Gentile worlds. - He had already vouched for Saul in Jerusalem (Acts 9:27), proving his discernment and courage. - Acts 11:24 describes him as “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith”; such character was vital for this sensitive mission. The Heart Behind the Decision - Submission to the Spirit: the church trusted God’s work enough to investigate with expectation, not suspicion. - Unity of the Body: leaders in Jerusalem felt responsible for distant converts (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:28). - Stewardship of Truth: early verification prevented error and fostered doctrinal continuity (Ephesians 4:4-6). Key Takeaways for the Church Today - Celebrate God’s work wherever it appears. News of conversions should stir joy, not jealousy. - Respond with support. Mature believers are to come alongside new Christians, providing instruction and encouragement (Matthew 28:19-20). - Choose proven servants. Character and Spirit-fullness outweigh titles when commissioning ministry (1 Timothy 3:10). - Guard unity through firsthand engagement. Personal visitation often diffuses rumors and builds trust (Galatians 2:1-2). Related Scriptures - Acts 15:1-4 — Later, the church again sends representatives to clarify Gentile inclusion. - Galatians 2:9 — Barnabas and Paul receive the right hand of fellowship from Jerusalem pillars. - Colossians 1:6 — The gospel “is bearing fruit and growing in all the world,” just as in Antioch. |
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