Acts 11
BSB1 The apostles and brothers throughout Judea soon heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers took issue with him 3 and said, “You visited uncircumcised men and ate with them." 4 But Peter began and explained to them the whole sequence of events: 5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision of something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came right down to me. 6 I looked at it closely and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles, and birds of the air. 7 Then I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up, Peter, kill and eat.’ 8 ‘No, Lord,’ I said, ‘for nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9 But the voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’ 10 This happened three times, and everything was drawn back up into heaven. 11 Just then three men sent to me from Caesarea stopped at the house where I was staying. 12 The Spirit told me to accompany them without hesitation. These six brothers also went with me, and we entered the man’s home. 13 He told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. 14 He will convey to you a message by which you and all your household will be saved.’ 15 As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, just as He had fallen upon us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered the word of the Lord, as He used to say, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 So if God gave them the same gift He gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to hinder the work of God?" 18 When they heard this, their objections were put to rest, and they glorified God, saying, “So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life." 19 Meanwhile those scattered by the persecution that began with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the message only to Jews. 20 But some of them, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began speaking to the Greeks as well, proclaiming the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. 22 When news of this reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to abide in the Lord with all their hearts. 24 Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. So for a full year they met together with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch. 27 In those days some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 One of them named Agabus stood up and predicted through the Spirit that a great famine would sweep across the whole world. (This happened under Claudius.) 29 So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. 30 This they did, sending their gifts to the elders with Barnabas and Saul.
Study Notes — Acts 11
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Acts 11
- Themes from Acts 11
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Acts 11
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with the news of the Gentiles' conversion reaching the apostles and believers in Jerusalem, who are initially hesitant to accept these new believers. Peter defends his actions, explaining how he was instructed by God to go to the Gentiles and how the Holy Spirit fell upon them just as it had on the Jewish believers at Pentecost. The church in Jerusalem eventually accepts the Gentile believers, recognizing that God has granted them repentance unto life. The chapter also describes the growth of the church in Antioch, where the disciples are first called Christians, and the sending of Barnabas to minister to them. Later, Agabus prophesies a famine, prompting the church to send relief to the believers in Judea.
Context for the Chapter
Acts chapter 11 is situated within the broader narrative of the early Christian church's expansion, as described in the Acts of the Apostles. It follows the conversion of Cornelius and his household, as told in Acts 10, and precedes the missionary journeys of Paul, which are detailed in subsequent chapters. The chapter is crucial for understanding the church's transition from a primarily Jewish movement to a universal faith that encompasses all nations.
Heart Application
This chapter challenges believers to embrace the universal scope of the gospel, recognizing that God's love and redemption are available to all people, regardless of their background. It encourages a spirit of unity and inclusivity within the church, mirroring the divine intention that believers from all nations should be one in Christ.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter of Acts tells us about how the early Christian church began to include people who were not Jewish. It shows us that God's love and salvation are for everyone, no matter where they come from. In Acts 11:15-17, we see how the Holy Spirit comes upon the Gentiles, just like He did on the Jewish believers, demonstrating God's acceptance of them. This chapter teaches us to be open and welcoming to people from all backgrounds, just like the early church learned to do.
Voices from the Church
“The gospel is not for the Jew only, nor for the Gentile only, but for every creature under heaven. It is a universal message, and it is to be preached universally.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The Holy Spirit is the seal of our adoption, by which we are assured that we are the children of God. And this Spirit is given to all who believe, regardless of their nation or background.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Church's Initial Hesitation (Acts 11:1-3) — The chapter begins with the news of the Gentiles' conversion reaching Jerusalem, prompting an initial hesitation among the apostles and believers.
- Peter's Defense (Acts 11:4-18) — Peter explains how he was instructed by God to go to the Gentiles and how the Holy Spirit fell upon them, leading to their acceptance by the church in Jerusalem.
- The Church in Antioch (Acts 11:19-26) — The chapter describes the growth of the church in Antioch, where the disciples are first called Christians, and the sending of Barnabas to minister to them.
- Agabus' Prophecy and the Church's Response (Acts 11:27-30) — Agabus prophesies a famine, prompting the church to send relief to the believers in Judea, demonstrating their compassion and interconnectedness.
- Conclusion (Acts 11:30) — The chapter concludes with the church's unified response to the prophesied famine, highlighting their growing maturity and sense of responsibility towards one another.
Core Doctrines
- The Universal Scope of the Gospel
- This chapter teaches that the gospel is for all nations and that God desires all people to be saved. It underscores the importance of taking the message of salvation to every corner of the world.
- The Work of the Holy Spirit
- The Holy Spirit's activity is central to this chapter, demonstrating God's acceptance of the Gentiles and guiding the decisions of the apostles. This emphasizes the Spirit's role in applying salvation and in the life of the believer.
- The Unity of the Church
- Despite initial hesitation, the church comes to recognize its unity across ethnic lines, reflecting the prayer of Jesus for all believers to be one. This unity is not based on human effort but on the shared experience of salvation through Jesus Christ.
- The Importance of Compassion and Interconnectedness
- The church's response to the prophesied famine demonstrates the importance of compassion and practical care for one another within the body of Christ. This reflects Jesus' command to love one another as He has loved us.
Lessons from Acts 11
- The Importance of Obedience to God's Leading — Peter's obedience to God's instruction to go to the Gentiles, despite potential controversy, is a powerful lesson in trusting and obeying God's will, even when it challenges our comfort zones or traditional practices.
- The Power of the Holy Spirit in Evangelism — The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles demonstrates the Spirit's crucial role in evangelism and the application of salvation. This underscores the importance of praying for and depending on the Holy Spirit in all missionary endeavors.
- Unity and Inclusivity in the Church — The church's eventual acceptance of the Gentile believers teaches us about the importance of unity and inclusivity within the body of Christ. It challenges us to look beyond our differences and to embrace all who are in Christ, regardless of their background or ethnicity.
- Compassion and Practical Care — The church's response to the prophesied famine shows us the value of compassion and practical care for one another. This is a vital aspect of Christian living, reflecting the heart of God and the teachings of Jesus.
- The Growth of the Church — The establishment and growth of the church in Antioch, as well as the sending of Barnabas, highlight the importance of leadership development, discipleship, and missionary work in the expansion of the kingdom of God.
Themes from Acts 11
- The Universal Gospel — This theme is central to the chapter, emphasizing that salvation is available to all people, regardless of their background or ethnicity. It underscores the importance of taking the gospel to every nation and includes the responsibility of every believer to be involved in this mission.
- The Work of the Holy Spirit — The Holy Spirit's activity in this chapter demonstrates His role in applying salvation, guiding believers, and empowering them for service. This theme highlights the necessity of depending on the Holy Spirit in all aspects of Christian living and ministry.
- Church Unity and Growth — The chapter teaches us about the importance of unity within the church, despite differences in background or ethnicity. It also shows how the church grows through the preaching of the gospel, the discipleship of new believers, and the development of leaders.
- Compassion and Interconnectedness — The church's response to the prophesied famine demonstrates the value of compassion and practical care for one another. This theme emphasizes the importance of living out our faith in tangible ways, reflecting the love and care of Christ for all people.
- Obedience and Faith — Peter's obedience to God's instruction, despite potential controversy, and the church's faith in sending relief to Judea, teach us about the importance of trusting and obeying God, even in challenging circumstances. This requires a deep faith in God's sovereignty and goodness.
Questions for Meditation
- What does this chapter teach about the scope of the gospel, and how does it apply to your life and ministry?
- How does the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles relate to the universal offer of salvation, and what implications does this have for evangelism and discipleship?
- In what ways can you contribute to fostering a spirit of unity and inclusivity within your local church, reflecting the divine intention for all believers to be one in Christ?
- How does the early church's response to the prophesied famine reflect the values of compassion and interconnectedness, and what can be learned from this example for contemporary Christian practice?
- What role does the Holy Spirit play in guiding the decisions and actions of believers, as seen in this chapter, and how can you cultivate a greater sensitivity to the Spirit's leading in your own life?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Church's Initial Hesitation (Acts 11:1-3)
| 11:1 | The apostles and the believers in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. |
| 11:2 | So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him. |
2. Peter's Defense (Acts 11:4-18)
| 11:4 | Peter began and explained everything to them properly, saying: |
| 11:15 | As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them, just as he had come on us at the beginning. |
3. The Church in Antioch (Acts 11:19-26)
| 11:19 | 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. |
| 11:26 | The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. |
4. Agabus' Prophecy and the Church's Response (Acts 11:27-30)
| 11:27 | During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. |
| 11:30 | This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the initial reaction of the church in Jerusalem to the news of the Gentiles' conversion?
The church in Jerusalem initially hesitated to accept the Gentile believers, but after Peter's explanation and testimony, they glorified God, recognizing that He had granted the Gentiles repentance unto life (Acts 11:18).
How did the Holy Spirit demonstrate God's acceptance of the Gentiles?
The Holy Spirit fell upon the Gentiles just as He had on the Jewish believers at Pentecost, demonstrating God's acceptance of them and their inclusion in the body of Christ (Acts 11:15-17).
What was significant about the church in Antioch, and how did it contribute to the spread of Christianity?
The church in Antioch was significant because it was there that the disciples were first called Christians, and it was a center for missionary work, with Barnabas and Saul being sent out from there (Acts 11:26, 30).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Acts 11:15 → Acts 2:4 | The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles parallels the experience of the Jewish believers at Pentecost, highlighting the unity of all believers in Christ. |
| 2 | Acts 11:18 → Romans 11:25 | The church's recognition that God has granted the Gentiles repentance unto life reflects the broader biblical theme of God's plan to save people from all nations. |
| 3 | Acts 11:1-3 → Galatians 2:11-14 | The initial hesitation of the church in Jerusalem to accept the Gentile believers is also reflected in the controversy over circumcision in Galatia, emphasizing the ongoing struggle to understand the implications of the gospel for Jewish and Gentile relationships. |
| 4 | Acts 11:15-17 → John 14:16-17 | The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles fulfills Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit as a helper and comforter to all believers, demonstrating the continuity between Jesus' ministry and the experience of the early church. |
| 5 | Acts 11:26 → 1 Peter 4:16 | The term 'Christian' first used in Antioch reflects the distinct identity of believers in the wider Roman world, emphasizing their commitment to follow Jesus Christ. |
| 6 | Acts 11:27-30 → Matthew 25:31-46 | The church's response to the prophesied famine, by sending relief to Judea, demonstrates the importance of practical care and compassion for one another, reflecting Jesus' teachings on the final judgment and the necessity of showing love to all people. |
| 7 | Acts 11:1-3 → Ephesians 2:11-22 | The initial hesitation and subsequent acceptance of the Gentile believers by the church in Jerusalem prefigure the broader theme of reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles in Christ, as described in Ephesians. |
| 8 | Acts 11:15-17 → Joel 2:28-32 | The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Gentiles fulfills the prophecy of Joel, which looks forward to a time when God will pour out His Spirit on all people, leading to a universal call to repentance and salvation. |
| 9 | Acts 11:18 → Isaiah 49:6 | The recognition that God has granted the Gentiles repentance unto life reflects the prophetic vision of Isaiah, who foresaw a time when God's salvation would be for all nations, not just Israel. |
| 10 | Acts 11:26 → Psalm 87:4-6 | The establishment of the church in Antioch and the disciples being called Christians for the first time there reflects the psalmist's vision of people from all nations being included among God's people, praising His name together. |
Sermons on Acts 11
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Awake! Series): Two Kinds of Sleeping People by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being alert and responsive to the call of God. He compares it to a person who suddenly wakes up and reacts quickly when th |
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Christians: Almost or Altogether? by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord Jesus based on the teachings of the prophets. He recounts the conversation between Paul, Festus, and |
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Christ the Center by David Platt | This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing Christ intimately, trusting Him completely, proclaiming Him boldly, and obeying Him sacrificially. It highlights that the church is |
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To God Be Glory in the Church by Art Katz | In this sermon entitled "To God Be Glory In The Church," Arthur Katz emphasizes the importance of aligning ourselves with the perfect standard that comes from heaven. He encourages |
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God's Supreme Position of Power by George R. Brunk II | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Acts as a blueprint for the church. He emphasizes the importance of the early church's relationship with the Holy Spirit. The pre |
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Availability and Angels by Paris Reidhead | In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man who had blood on his hands and darkness in his heart. He was told by a figure in white that someone with a face like his woul |
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The Church of Antoich in Acts 11 by David Platt | This sermon emphasizes the importance of intentionally making disciples and multiplying churches for the glory of God. It highlights the need for desperate dependence on the Holy S |
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Comfort of the Spirit by Stephen Olford | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God with truth, passion, and clarity. He believes that exhortation, which includes a compassionate p |
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Church History - Session 1 (The Book of Acts 2) by Edgar F. Parkyns | In this sermon, the speaker recounts the story of Peter and Cornelius from the book of Acts in the Bible. Peter, a Jew, receives a vision from God three times, which he initially s |
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Los Angeles Conference #1 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the warm welcome he has received. He then directs the audience to a well-known passage in the Bible, John 3:8, which |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Acts 11
In this chapter, we see the remarkable expansion of the gospel beyond Jerusalem, to the Gentiles. The Holy Spirit's outpouring on the Gentiles, as on the Jews, demonstrates God's universal love and desire for all to come to repentance. The church's initial hesitation and subsequent acceptance of the Gentile believers teach us about the importance of unity and inclusivity in the body of Christ. The chapter also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the decisions of believers and the necessity of compassion and practical care for one another. Through the example of the early church, we are reminded of our responsibility to take the gospel to all nations and to live out our faith in tangible ways, reflecting the love and character of God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Initial Hesitation
Notice how the church in Jerusalem initially hesitates to accept the Gentile believers, reflecting the ongoing struggle to understand the universal scope of the gospel. This hesitation is overcome by Peter's testimony and the evident work of the Holy Spirit among the Gentiles.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding the decisions of the apostles and in demonstrating God's acceptance of the Gentiles. This is evident in the outpouring of the Spirit on the Gentiles and in the prophetic ministry of Agabus.
The Growth of the Church
The chapter highlights the rapid growth of the church, both in terms of numbers and geography. The establishment of the church in Antioch and the sending of relief to Judea demonstrate the interconnectedness and compassion of the early Christian communities.