Acts 11: Believers Called Christians in Antioch

Read Acts Chapter 11

Introduction: In Acts 11, we see the early church wrestling with the idea of gentiles being included their church. Peter explains his vision from God and defends his actions of preaching to and baptizing the gentiles. The church in Antioch is established, and there the believers are first called Christians. This chapter shows the power of God’s love and the importance of unity in the church. There is no substitute for unity in the church, with the believers united in their belief in God and work for God, the devil will have a hard time disrupting whatever they endeavor to do, things to think about in our days, year 2024.

I. Peter Explains His Actions (Acts 11:1-18)
Peter is criticized by the Jewish believers for associating with Gentiles. He recounts his vision from God, where he was told that nothing God has made is unclean. The Holy Spirit falls on the Gentiles, and Peter baptizes them. The believers are convinced and praise God for granting salvation to the Gentiles. Other verses in the Bible that we can cross reference with these verses are Galatians 3:28 – There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. This verse relates to the content of this section as it highlights the unity that is found in Christ, regardless of social background or where they were born.

II. The Church in Antioch (Acts 11:19-26)
Believers who were scattered after Stephen’s martyrdom preach the gospel in Antioch. Many Gentiles believe and turn to the Lord. Barnabas is sent to Antioch and brings Saul (Paul) to help teach the believers. The disciples are first called Christians in Antioch. Romans 1:16 – For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. This verse is relative to the content of this section as it emphasizes the inclusivity of the gospel message to both Jews and Gentiles.

III. Relief for Judea (Acts 11:27-30)
Prophets come to Antioch and predict a famine. The believers decide to send relief to the Judean church. Barnabas and Paul are chosen to deliver the aid.  The Bible teaches us in 2 Corinthians 9:12 – For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. This verse in 2 Corinthians relates to this section of verses in Acts, as it speaks to the importance of providing for the needs of fellow believers.

Conclusion: Acts 11 shows the power of the gospel to break down barriers and bring people from all walks of life and backgrounds together. Peter’s vision and the establishment of the church in Antioch show that all are included when it comes to God’s love, and the unity of believers that is found in Christ. The believers’ willingness to support one another in times of need exemplifies the true spirit of the church. As Christians, we are called to see all people and nations impartially, share the gospel with all, and care for our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Some other verses that are relative to Acts 11:

1. Galatians 2:11-14 – Paul confronts Peter about his hypocrisy in withdrawing from eating with Gentiles, which is related to the events in Acts 11 where Peter defends his actions to the Jewish believers.
2. Matthew 28:19 – The Great Commission to make disciples of all nations, which is fulfilled in Acts 11 when the gospel is preached to the Gentiles in Antioch.
3. Isaiah 49:6 – This prophecy about being a light to the Gentiles is reflected in Acts 11:18 when the Jewish believers praise God for granting repentance to the Gentiles.
4. Genesis 12:3 – God’s promise to Abraham that all peoples on earth will be blessed through him is echoed in Acts 11:1-18 when the gospel is spread to the Gentiles.
5. Luke 24:47-48 – Jesus’ command to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations, which is fulfilled in Acts 11 when the church in Antioch is established.
6. Romans 10:12-13 – Paul’s affirmation that there is no difference between Jew and Gentile, and that anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved, is demonstrated in Acts 11 with the conversion of Cornelius and his household.