Acts 11

Summary

 

Acts 11 highlights the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian community, the establishment of the church in Antioch, and the response to a prophecy regarding a coming famine. It demonstrates the expanding reach of the Gospel and the unity within the early Christian movement.

 

1. Peter Explains His Actions (Acts 11:1-18): After Peter had shared the Gospel with Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and his household, some Jewish Christians were critical of Peter for associating with Gentiles. Peter recounts the vision he had received from God and the conversion of Cornelius, emphasizing that God had granted the Gentiles repentance and life.
2. The Church in Antioch (Acts 11:19-26): Some believers, scattered due to the persecution following Stephen's death, come to Antioch and begin preaching the Gospel, leading to the formation of a vibrant Christian community. The church in Jerusalem sends Barnabas to assess the situation, and he encourages the believers in Antioch. Barnabas then brings Saul (Paul) from Tarsus to help with the growing community.
3. Relief to Judea (Acts 11:27-30): Agabus, a prophet, predicts a famine throughout the Roman world. The disciples in Antioch decide to send relief to the brothers and sisters in Judea, and they entrust the aid to Barnabas and Saul.

 

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