Acts 9:31
Verse
Context
The Healing of Aeneas
30When the brothers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.31Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria experienced a time of peace. It grew in strength and numbers, living in the fear of the Lord and the encouragement of the Holy Spirit.
Sermons
Stephen Olford
Henry Blackaby
Michael Haykin
Don Courville
Zac PoonenDon Courville
A.W. TozerSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Then had the Churches rest - Instead of ἱα εκκλησιαι, the Churches, ABC, several others, the Syriac, Coptic, Ethiopic, Armenian, and Vulgate, have ἡεκκλησια, the Church. Every assembly of God's people was a Church; the aggregate of these assemblies was The Church. The wordειρηνην, which we translate rest, and which literally signifies peace, evidently means, in this place, prosperity; and in this sense both it and the Hebrew שלום shalom are repeatedly used. But what was the cause of this rest or success? Some say, the conversion of Saul, who before made havoc of the Church; but this is not likely, as he could not be a universal cause of persecution and distress, however active and virulent he might have been during the time of his enmity to the Christian Church. Besides his own persecution, related above, shows that the opposition to the Gospel continued with considerable virulence three years after his conversion; therefore it was not Saul's ceasing to be a persecutor that gave this rest to the Churches. Dr. Lardner, with a greater show of probability, maintains that this rest was owing to the following circumstance: Soon after Caligula's accession to the imperial dignity, the Jews at Alexandria suffered very much from the Egyptians in that city; and at length their oratories were all destroyed. In the third year of Caligula, a.d. 39, Petronius, who was made president of Syria in the place of Vitellius, was sent by the emperor to set up his statue in the temple at Jerusalem. This was a thunder-stroke to the Jews, and so occupied them that they had no time to think of any thing else; apprehending that their temple must be defiled, and the national religion destroyed, or themselves run the risk of being exterminated if they rebelled against the imperial decree. The account given by Josephus will set this in a clear point of view. "Caligula sent Petronius to go with an army to Jerusalem, to set up his statues in the temple, enjoining him if the Jews opposed it, to put to death all that made resistance, and to make all the rest of the nation slaves. Petronius therefore marched from Antioch into Judea, with three legions, and a large body of auxiliaries raised in Syria. All were hereupon filled with consternation, the army being come as far as Ptolemais. The Jews, then, gathering together, went to the plain near Ptolemais, and entreated Petronius in the first place for their laws, in the next place for themselves. Petronius was moved with their solicitations, and, leaving his army and the statues, went into Galilee, and called an assembly of the heads of the Jews at Tiberias; and, having exhorted them without effect to submit to the emperor's orders, said, 'Will ye then fight against Caesar?' They answered that they offered up sacrifices twice every day for the emperor and the Roman people; but that if he would set up the images, he ought first of all to sacrifice the whole Jewish nation; and that they were ready to submit themselves, their wives and children, to the slaughter." Philo gives a similar account of this transaction. See Lardner's Credibility, Works, vol. i. p. 97, etc. It appears, therefore, that, as these transactions took place about the time mentioned in the text, their persecution from the Romans diverted them from persecuting the Christians; and Then had the Churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee, and Samaria; the terror occasioned by the imperial decree having spread itself through all those places. Were edified - Οικοδομουμεναι, A metaphor taken from a building. 1. The ground is marked out; 2. the ichnograph, or dimensions of the building, ascertained; 3. the foundation is digged; 4. the foundation stone laid; 5. the walls builded up with course upon course; 6. the top-stone brought on; 7. the roof raised, and the whole covered in; and, 8. the interior part fitted up and adorned, and rendered convenient for the intended inhabitant. This figure frequently occurs in the sacred writings, especially in the New Testament. It has its reason in the original creation of man: God made the first human being as a shrine or temple, in which himself might dwell. Sin entered, and the heavenly building was destroyed. The materials, however, though all dislocated, and covered with rubbish and every way defiled, yet exist; no essential power or faculty of the soul having been lost. The work of redemption consists in building up this house as it was in the beginning, and rendering it a proper habitation for God. The various powers, faculties, and passions, are all to be purified and refined by the power of the Holy Spirit, and order and harmony restored to the whole soul. All this is beautifully pointed out by St. Peter, Pe1 2:4, Pe1 2:5 : To whom (Jesus Christ) coming as unto a Living Stone, chosen of God and precious, ye also, as Living Stones, are Built Up a spiritual House, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices to God by Jesus Christ. And St. Paul, who, from his own profession as a tent-maker, could best seize on the metaphor, and press it into this spiritual service, goes through the whole figure at large, in the following inimitable words: Ye are the Household of God, and are Built upon the Foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief Cornerstone, in whom all the Building, Fitly Framed together, groweth unto a Holy Temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are Builded together for a Habitation of God, through the Spirit, Eph 2:19-22. Edification signifies, therefore, an increase in the light, life, and power of God; being founded on the doctrine of Christ crucified; having the soul purified from all unrighteousness, and fitted, by increasing holiness, to be a permanent residence for the ever-blessed God. Walking in the fear of the Lord - Keeping a continually tender conscience; abhorring all sin; having respect to every Divine precept; dreading to offend him from whom the soul has derived its being and its blessings. Without this salutary fear of God there never can be any circumspect walking. In the comfort of the Holy Ghost - In a consciousness of their acceptance and union with God, through his Spirit, by which solid peace and happiness are brought into the soul; the truly religious man knowing and feeling that he is of God, by the Spirit which is given him: nothing less can be implied in the comfort of the Holy Ghost. Were multiplied - No wonder that the Church of God increased, when such lights as these shone among men. This is a short, but full and forcible description of the righteousness, purity, and happiness of the primitive Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
FLOURISHING STATE OF THE CHURCH IN PALESTINE AT THIS TIME. (Act 9:31) Then had all the churches rest--rather, "the Church," according to the best manuscripts and versions. But this rest was owing not so much to the conversion of Saul, as probably to the Jews being engrossed with the emperor Caligula's attempt to have his own image set up in the temple of Jerusalem [JOSEPHUS, Antiquities, 18.8.1, &c.]. throughout all Judea, and Galilee, and Samaria--This incidental notice of distinct churches already dotting all the regions which were the chief scenes of our Lord's ministry, and that were best able to test the facts on which the whole preaching of the apostles was based, is extremely interesting. "The fear of the Lord" expresses their holy walk; "the comfort of the Holy Ghost," their "peace and joy in believing," under the silent operation of the blessed Comforter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And it came to pass, as Peter passed through all quarters,.... The Arabic version reads, "all the foresaid places", as Judea, Galilee, and Samaria; through which he took a tour, in order to visit the new churches here planted, fix pastors over them, and confirm the Gospel by miracles, which they had received: he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda: a city which lay on the west of Jerusalem, and is said (u) to be a day's Journey from it; and a day's journey were ten parsas, or forty miles (w): it was but thirty two miles from Jerusalem, and was a place famous for Jewish doctors; for which reason it is frequently mentioned in the Talmudic writings, under the name of Lod or Lud. Mention is made of R. Simlai, who was of Lydda (x), and of the chambers of Beth Nithzah, and of Arum in Lydda (y) where the doctors disputed; there was a school here, of which R. Akiba was president (z) here also the sanhedrim sometimes sat, since we are told that Ben Sutda was tried and stoned at Lud or Lydda (a); and here likewise they intercalated the year (b), it being in Judea: this place was situated in a plain; so says Jerom (c), "they that dwell in Sephela, that is, in the plain, Lydda and Emmaus, which design Diospolls and Nicopolis, shall possess the Philistines.'' And with this agrees the account the Talmudists (d) give of it, "the country of Judea was divided into three parts, the hill country, the plain, and the valley; from Bethhoron to Emmaus was the hill country; from Emmaus to Lydda was the plain or champaign country; and from Lydda to the sea, the valley.'' Hence also we read (e) of , "the plain of Lydda": and now Peter coming from Jerusalem, and the hill country of Judea, into this plain and champaign country, is properly said to come down to the saints there. So Quadratus in Josephus (f) is said to come up from Lydda to Jerusalem. This place was near the Mediterranean sea; and was in Jerom's time called Diospolis (g), and in the time of R. Benjamin (h) Seguras; it is the same with Lod in Ezr 2:33 The builder of it was Shamed the son of Elpaal, Ch1 8:12. It was in the times of Josephus (i) a village, yet not inferior to a city for greatness. It is now called S. Georgia. And here it seems some saints or Christians dwelt, whom Peter, among the rest, visited; and which is mentioned for the sake of the miracle he there wrought, next related. And these saints at Lydda very likely were converted under Philip's ministry, as he passed from Azotus to Caesarea, Act 8:40 and, it may be, were in a church state, or, however, were afterwards. Zenas the lawyer, the Apostle Paul speaks of in Tit 3:13 is said to be bishop of Diospolis, or Lydda; in the beginning of the fourth century Aetius was bishop of this place, who assisted in the council of Nice; and in the same century, anno 331, Dionysius, another bishop of this place, was present at a council at Constantinople; and in the fifth century Photinus wrote himself bishop of Lydda, in the Chalcedon council, anno 451 (k). (u) Misn. Maasersheni, c. 5. sect. 2. T. Bab. Betza, fol. 5. 1. & Roshhashana, fol. 31. 2. & Juchasin, fol. 37. 1. (w) T. Bab. Pesachim, fol. 93. 2. & Gloss. in ib. (x) Juchasin, fol. 105. 1. (y) T. Bab. Kiddushin, fol. 40. 2. T. Hieros. Pesachim, fol. 30. 2. (z) Misn. Roshhashana, c. 1. sect. 6. (a) T. Hieros. Sanhedrin, fol. 25. 4. (b) Ib. fol. 18. 3. (c) In Obad. 1. 19. (d) T. Hicros. Sheviith, fol. 38. 4. (e) Misn. Sheviith, c. 9. sect. 2. (f) De Bello Jud. l. 2. c. 12. sect. 8. (g) Epitaph. Paulae, fol. 59. A. (h) ltinerar. p. 52. (i) Antiqu. l. 20. c. 5. sect. 2. (k) Reland. Palestina Illustrata, 1. 3. p. 878, 879. Vid. Magdeburg. Hist. Eccles. cent. 4. c. 2. p. 2. cent. 5. c. 2. p. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:31 This verse is one of several in Acts that detail the numerical and spiritual growth of the church (see also 2:41; 4:4; 5:14; 6:1, 7; 12:24; 21:20). • The first Christians were discovering the truth of the principle, “the fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge” (Prov 1:7; 9:10; cp. Job 28:28; Ps 111:10; Eccl 12:13; see Luke 7:16), and they were growing in their faith (cp. Acts 2:43; 19:17).
Acts 9:31
The Healing of Aeneas
30When the brothers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.31Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria experienced a time of peace. It grew in strength and numbers, living in the fear of the Lord and the encouragement of the Holy Spirit.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Comfort of the Spirit
By Stephen Olford2.1K41:35Spirit Of GodACT 2:40ACT 9:31ACT 11:23ACT 11:25In 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 presentation of truth, should challenge the audience to respond either by believing or rejecting. The preacher cites examples from the book of Acts, such as Peter's sermon on Pentecost and Barnabas' exhortation in Antioch, to illustrate the need for decision and response in preaching. He also highlights the ministry of consolation and encourages the audience to have a spirit of consolation towards others.
Evangelism Conference - Part 4
By Henry Blackaby1.7K48:39ISA 55:8MAT 28:19LUK 24:45ACT 1:8ACT 8:1ACT 9:31ACT 11:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to God's message and the role it plays in the lives of others. He encourages the congregation to prepare themselves for a worthy response to God's word. The speaker also highlights the significance of music in expressing our response to God even after the meeting is over. He then references the book of Luke, where Jesus opened the minds of his disciples to understand the scriptures. The speaker emphasizes the need for the Holy Spirit to open our minds to the scriptures and emphasizes the importance of studying the word of God.
Overview of the Book of Acts
By Michael Haykin1.1K44:56ACT 6:7ACT 9:31ACT 12:24ACT 16:5ACT 19:20ACT 28:30In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power and growth of the Word of God in the book of Acts. He highlights several summary sections in the book where Luke pauses to review what God is doing. Despite opposition, persecution, and even hypocrisy within the church, the Word of God continues to increase and build the church. The speaker encourages believers to be faithful in sharing and proclaiming the Word, as it is what drives the church forward and saves sinners.
The Fear of God (03) Fruits of the Fear of God
By Don Courville1.1K59:34Fear Of GodPSA 4:4ACT 9:31In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the fear of the Lord and its impact on our lives. He emphasizes that when we have God as our God, we have no reason to be afraid. The speaker references Psalm 4, which encourages us to stand in awe of God, commune with our hearts, offer sacrifices of righteousness, and trust in the Lord. He also mentions the importance of being watchful and prayerful, using the example of Peter's denial of Christ. The sermon concludes with a story about a pastor in Romania who faced persecution but remained steadfast in his faith, knowing that heaven awaited him.
The Fear of God and Encouragement
By Zac Poonen1.1K56:52PSA 139:23MAT 11:28ACT 9:31
This sermon emphasizes the importance of living in peace, growing spiritually, and increasing in numbers within the church. It highlights the need for peace in relationships, spiritual growth, and the balance between quality and quantity in church growth. The fear of the Lord is discussed as a filter for decision-making and the encouragement of the Holy Spirit is emphasized as a source of hope and unity within the church.
The Fear of God (06) Shoes for the Road
By Don Courville9811:07:32Fear Of GodMAT 18:20ACT 9:31ACT 13:13ACT 15:15In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of inviting someone for hot chocolate and sharing the message of Christ with them. The individuals believed in the Lord and were saved, possibly due to the unusual manifestation of Christ's presence. The speaker then refers to Acts 4:13, highlighting how Peter and John, despite being unlearned and ignorant, were recognized as having been with Jesus. The sermon also touches on Acts 2, where the presence of God and the preaching of Christ led to repentance and baptism of 3,000 people. The speaker emphasizes the importance of walking in the fear of the Lord and shares five lessons on this topic.
The Primacy of Self
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 34:11PSA 119:38PRO 1:7PRO 8:13PRO 15:16JON 1:16ACT 5:5ACT 9:31ROM 3:18EPH 6:51TI 5:20REV 18:10In this sermon on Fear, the preacher delves into the various uses of 'phobos' in the Bible, highlighting how it can describe both positive and negative senses of fear. While fear can be associated with terror and dread, it can also convey a sense of reverential awe and respect, especially in the context of God's divine works. The sermon emphasizes the importance of reverential fear of Jehovah, which leads to wisdom, motivates godly behavior, and produces strong confidence, holy conduct, and Christ-honoring obedience.
Lovingly Truthful
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 5:48ACT 6:1ACT 9:311CO 2:6EPH 4:13PHP 3:15COL 4:12HEB 5:14JAS 1:4Andrew Bonar preaches about Epaphras' fervent prayers for the Colossian believers to stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Epaphras, despite being a prisoner, devoted himself to prayer, laboring fervently and consistently for the spiritual growth and maturity of the Colossians. His main focus was on believers attaining moral maturity, fulfilling God's purpose for their lives, and standing blameless before Him. Epaphras understood the importance of believers being fully assured and persuaded in the will of God, knowing that this assurance leads to spiritual growth, maturity, and the ability to make right decisions in life.
Our Daily Homily - Acts
By F.B. Meyer0Empowerment by the Holy SpiritWitnessingACT 1:8ACT 2:33ACT 4:31ACT 5:4ACT 6:4ACT 7:55ACT 9:31ACT 10:6ACT 20:282CO 3:18F.B. Meyer emphasizes the call for believers to be witnesses of Christ, contrasting this role with the priestly functions of the time. He highlights that true witness-bearing stems from a close relationship with Jesus, which transforms us and enables us to reflect His light. Meyer encourages believers to start witnessing in their immediate circles before expanding outward, asserting that the Holy Spirit empowers this mission. He also discusses the importance of prayer and the continuous filling of the Holy Spirit for effective ministry. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a life of obedience to God's will, urging believers to recognize their role in the ongoing story of the Church.
The Fear of the Lord
By H.J. Vine0PRO 8:13MAL 4:2MAT 3:16ACT 9:311CO 1:29EPH 5:332TI 2:22HEB 5:7REV 22:16H.J. Vine preaches on the importance of being in the fear of the Lord throughout the day, emphasizing the reverent trustfulness and hatred of evil that comes with it. The presence of the Lord brings joy and reality to those who maintain this fear. By walking in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Ghost, true prosperity and unity are experienced, as seen in the early assemblies in the Acts.
The Spirit of Comfort
By A.B. Simpson0Joy in TrialsComfortISA 26:3MAT 11:28JHN 14:27JHN 15:11ACT 9:31ROM 5:12CO 1:5GAL 5:221TH 5:16HEB 4:11A.B. Simpson emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter, who brings peace, joy, and consolation to believers. He explains that true peace comes from a deep relationship with God, while joy is a divine gift that transcends circumstances. Simpson encourages believers to cooperate with the Holy Spirit, especially during trials, as these moments can lead to profound joy and spiritual growth. He highlights that comfort is proportional to trial, and that the Holy Spirit's presence is essential for enduring life's challenges. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a faith that seeks to glorify God above all, leading to lasting joy and fulfillment.
The Fear of the Lord
By Andrew Murray0Fear Of The LordTrust in GodPSA 2:11PSA 22:23PSA 34:9PSA 112:1PSA 135:20PRO 1:7PRO 9:10ISA 41:10ACT 9:311JN 4:18Andrew Murray emphasizes the dual nature of fear in the Scriptures, distinguishing between sinful fear, which stems from unbelief, and the reverent fear of the Lord, which is rooted in trust and leads to blessings. He explains that the fear of the Lord is essential for spiritual life, providing wisdom, protection, and joy, and is characterized by humility, vigilance, and zeal. Murray encourages believers to cultivate a childlike fear of God that honors Him and fosters a deep relationship, assuring that those who fear the Lord will not fear anything else. He highlights the importance of instilling this reverent fear in children, as it prepares them for a joyful walk with the Lord. Ultimately, he calls for a united heart that reveres God's name, promising that such fear will lead to love and joy in God.
Another Comforter
By Thomas Bradbury0JHN 14:16JHN 16:13JHN 17:9ACT 9:31ROM 5:5ROM 8:14ROM 8:32GAL 4:6Thomas Bradbury preaches about the promise of the Holy Spirit given by Jesus to His disciples, emphasizing the Father's grace in sending the Comforter, the Saviour's intercession for His people, the Spirit's personality as the Spirit of truth, the world's ignorance and enmity towards the Spirit, and the Church's knowledge and love for the indwelling Spirit. Bradbury delves into the circumstances surrounding Jesus' words to His disciples, highlighting the humility and spiritual significance behind His actions. He draws parallels between the disciples' experiences and the spiritual truths revealed through the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Then the Churches Had Rest
By Eli Brayley0ACT 9:31PHP 4:92TH 1:3HEB 12:12JUD 1:20REV 3:1Eli Brayley preaches on the transformation of Saul of Tarsus, later known as the apostle Paul, and its impact on the early Church, leading to a time of rest and edification among the believers. Drawing parallels to the modern Western Church, he emphasizes the importance of utilizing times of peace to grow in faith, love, and holiness, warning against the dangers of spiritual degeneracy in the absence of persecution. The message calls for a return to the fear of God, walking in holiness, and seeking the comfort of the Holy Spirit to avoid judgment and spiritual complacency.
The Conflict of the Ages
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Power of PrayerSuffering and TriumphPSA 34:19LUK 12:49ACT 9:31ACT 11:19ACT 17:6ROM 8:282CO 4:17EPH 3:10REV 13:10T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound conflict between the forces of evil and the invincible power of God as illustrated in Acts 12. He emphasizes that the suffering of the Church, represented by the martyrdom of James and the imprisonment of Peter, serves a greater purpose in God's plan, drawing out evil for its ultimate destruction. The chapter encapsulates the ongoing struggle between Herod, a symbol of earthly power, and the Church, which, through prayer and unity, becomes a vessel for God's will. Sparks highlights the importance of understanding the 'cup' of suffering as integral to the scattering of the Gospel fire, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and triumph. He encourages believers to remain steadfast in prayer, recognizing that their struggles contribute to the advancement of God's Kingdom.
The Church and Amusements
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0MAT 6:24MRK 8:36ACT 9:311CO 8:12CO 13:10EPH 4:12W.H. Griffith Thomas addresses the question of recreation and amusement in the Church, emphasizing the importance of aligning all activities with the principles of the New Testament. The purpose of the Church is to witness to Christ, win souls, engage believers in His work, and nurture their spiritual growth. The sermon delves into the place of amusement in Church life, highlighting the potential conflicts with evangelization and edification. It stresses the need for spiritual focus over social elements in Church activities, cautioning against the detrimental effects of prioritizing entertainment over spiritual growth.
The Churches Increased.
By Edward Payson0PSA 16:11ISA 44:3ACT 9:31ROM 8:15ROM 15:131CO 14:252CO 1:22GAL 5:221TH 1:5HEB 12:28Edward Payson preaches about the importance of churches walking in the fear of God and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost. He highlights the rarity and pleasure of seeing the church enjoying rest and utilizing it properly to be edified and multiplied. Payson emphasizes that walking in the fear of God involves veneration for God, humble submission to His authority, and a holy jealousy to avoid displeasing Him. Walking in the comfort of the Holy Ghost includes experiencing peace of conscience, a strong hope of adoption, and foretastes of heavenly joys. Payson urges believers to live in a manner that convinces others of the reality and desirability of religion, drawing down God's blessings and potentially leading to great additions of saved souls in churches.
A Fountain of Life
By David Wilkerson0Consequences of SinFear Of God1SA 13:13PRO 3:7PRO 14:27ACT 9:31HEB 12:28David Wilkerson emphasizes the grave consequences of unaddressed sin, using the example of King Saul, who lost God's favor due to his disobedience. He warns that continuing in sin leads to barrenness and fruitlessness, while the fear of God is presented as a source of life and a means to avoid death's snares. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace God's conviction as a gift, guiding them to depart from sin and receive the comfort of the Holy Spirit. He explains that walking in the fear of the Lord involves acknowledging one's sins and heeding God's warnings, which lays the groundwork for fulfilling His promises.
The Secret of the Lord
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 25:14PSA 33:18PSA 34:9PSA 89:30PSA 111:10PSA 145:19PRO 14:26ACT 9:31HEB 11:6J.C. Philpot preaches about the secret of the Lord being with those who fear Him, emphasizing the spiritual and supernatural nature of true religion. He distinguishes between servile fear and filial fear, highlighting the blessings and effects of the fear of the Lord in the believer's life. Philpot delves into the various aspects of the secret of the Lord, including the existence of God, providential dealings, a sense of His presence, and communion with Him. He concludes by discussing the promise of God showing His covenant to those who fear Him, underscoring the stability, grace, and eternal nature of this covenant for the believer.
The Church: "A Home Away From Home"
By Greg Herrick0MAT 28:18ACT 9:31ROM 16:51CO 1:11CO 12:12EPH 1:22EPH 2:19EPH 4:1EPH 5:25COL 1:28Greg Herrick preaches on the nature of the church, emphasizing its essential oneness as a spiritual entity composed of all true believers in Christ, regardless of different people groups. He explores various scriptural metaphors for the church, highlighting the imagery of the church as the body of Christ and the importance of love in exercising spiritual gifts. Herrick delves into the power and service of the church, discussing its mandate to equip members for holiness and effective service, as well as its mission to reach the world for Christ. He also touches on the marks of a true church, emphasizing the importance of biblical doctrine, sacraments, discipline, equipping members, and evangelism.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Then had the Churches rest - Instead of ἱα εκκλησιαι, the Churches, ABC, several others, the Syriac, Coptic, Ethiopic, Armenian, and Vulgate, have ἡεκκλησια, the Church. Every assembly of God's people was a Church; the aggregate of these assemblies was The Church. The wordειρηνην, which we translate rest, and which literally signifies peace, evidently means, in this place, prosperity; and in this sense both it and the Hebrew שלום shalom are repeatedly used. But what was the cause of this rest or success? Some say, the conversion of Saul, who before made havoc of the Church; but this is not likely, as he could not be a universal cause of persecution and distress, however active and virulent he might have been during the time of his enmity to the Christian Church. Besides his own persecution, related above, shows that the opposition to the Gospel continued with considerable virulence three years after his conversion; therefore it was not Saul's ceasing to be a persecutor that gave this rest to the Churches. Dr. Lardner, with a greater show of probability, maintains that this rest was owing to the following circumstance: Soon after Caligula's accession to the imperial dignity, the Jews at Alexandria suffered very much from the Egyptians in that city; and at length their oratories were all destroyed. In the third year of Caligula, a.d. 39, Petronius, who was made president of Syria in the place of Vitellius, was sent by the emperor to set up his statue in the temple at Jerusalem. This was a thunder-stroke to the Jews, and so occupied them that they had no time to think of any thing else; apprehending that their temple must be defiled, and the national religion destroyed, or themselves run the risk of being exterminated if they rebelled against the imperial decree. The account given by Josephus will set this in a clear point of view. "Caligula sent Petronius to go with an army to Jerusalem, to set up his statues in the temple, enjoining him if the Jews opposed it, to put to death all that made resistance, and to make all the rest of the nation slaves. Petronius therefore marched from Antioch into Judea, with three legions, and a large body of auxiliaries raised in Syria. All were hereupon filled with consternation, the army being come as far as Ptolemais. The Jews, then, gathering together, went to the plain near Ptolemais, and entreated Petronius in the first place for their laws, in the next place for themselves. Petronius was moved with their solicitations, and, leaving his army and the statues, went into Galilee, and called an assembly of the heads of the Jews at Tiberias; and, having exhorted them without effect to submit to the emperor's orders, said, 'Will ye then fight against Caesar?' They answered that they offered up sacrifices twice every day for the emperor and the Roman people; but that if he would set up the images, he ought first of all to sacrifice the whole Jewish nation; and that they were ready to submit themselves, their wives and children, to the slaughter." Philo gives a similar account of this transaction. See Lardner's Credibility, Works, vol. i. p. 97, etc. It appears, therefore, that, as these transactions took place about the time mentioned in the text, their persecution from the Romans diverted them from persecuting the Christians; and Then had the Churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee, and Samaria; the terror occasioned by the imperial decree having spread itself through all those places. Were edified - Οικοδομουμεναι, A metaphor taken from a building. 1. The ground is marked out; 2. the ichnograph, or dimensions of the building, ascertained; 3. the foundation is digged; 4. the foundation stone laid; 5. the walls builded up with course upon course; 6. the top-stone brought on; 7. the roof raised, and the whole covered in; and, 8. the interior part fitted up and adorned, and rendered convenient for the intended inhabitant. This figure frequently occurs in the sacred writings, especially in the New Testament. It has its reason in the original creation of man: God made the first human being as a shrine or temple, in which himself might dwell. Sin entered, and the heavenly building was destroyed. The materials, however, though all dislocated, and covered with rubbish and every way defiled, yet exist; no essential power or faculty of the soul having been lost. The work of redemption consists in building up this house as it was in the beginning, and rendering it a proper habitation for God. The various powers, faculties, and passions, are all to be purified and refined by the power of the Holy Spirit, and order and harmony restored to the whole soul. All this is beautifully pointed out by St. Peter, Pe1 2:4, Pe1 2:5 : To whom (Jesus Christ) coming as unto a Living Stone, chosen of God and precious, ye also, as Living Stones, are Built Up a spiritual House, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices to God by Jesus Christ. And St. Paul, who, from his own profession as a tent-maker, could best seize on the metaphor, and press it into this spiritual service, goes through the whole figure at large, in the following inimitable words: Ye are the Household of God, and are Built upon the Foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief Cornerstone, in whom all the Building, Fitly Framed together, groweth unto a Holy Temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are Builded together for a Habitation of God, through the Spirit, Eph 2:19-22. Edification signifies, therefore, an increase in the light, life, and power of God; being founded on the doctrine of Christ crucified; having the soul purified from all unrighteousness, and fitted, by increasing holiness, to be a permanent residence for the ever-blessed God. Walking in the fear of the Lord - Keeping a continually tender conscience; abhorring all sin; having respect to every Divine precept; dreading to offend him from whom the soul has derived its being and its blessings. Without this salutary fear of God there never can be any circumspect walking. In the comfort of the Holy Ghost - In a consciousness of their acceptance and union with God, through his Spirit, by which solid peace and happiness are brought into the soul; the truly religious man knowing and feeling that he is of God, by the Spirit which is given him: nothing less can be implied in the comfort of the Holy Ghost. Were multiplied - No wonder that the Church of God increased, when such lights as these shone among men. This is a short, but full and forcible description of the righteousness, purity, and happiness of the primitive Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
FLOURISHING STATE OF THE CHURCH IN PALESTINE AT THIS TIME. (Act 9:31) Then had all the churches rest--rather, "the Church," according to the best manuscripts and versions. But this rest was owing not so much to the conversion of Saul, as probably to the Jews being engrossed with the emperor Caligula's attempt to have his own image set up in the temple of Jerusalem [JOSEPHUS, Antiquities, 18.8.1, &c.]. throughout all Judea, and Galilee, and Samaria--This incidental notice of distinct churches already dotting all the regions which were the chief scenes of our Lord's ministry, and that were best able to test the facts on which the whole preaching of the apostles was based, is extremely interesting. "The fear of the Lord" expresses their holy walk; "the comfort of the Holy Ghost," their "peace and joy in believing," under the silent operation of the blessed Comforter.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And it came to pass, as Peter passed through all quarters,.... The Arabic version reads, "all the foresaid places", as Judea, Galilee, and Samaria; through which he took a tour, in order to visit the new churches here planted, fix pastors over them, and confirm the Gospel by miracles, which they had received: he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda: a city which lay on the west of Jerusalem, and is said (u) to be a day's Journey from it; and a day's journey were ten parsas, or forty miles (w): it was but thirty two miles from Jerusalem, and was a place famous for Jewish doctors; for which reason it is frequently mentioned in the Talmudic writings, under the name of Lod or Lud. Mention is made of R. Simlai, who was of Lydda (x), and of the chambers of Beth Nithzah, and of Arum in Lydda (y) where the doctors disputed; there was a school here, of which R. Akiba was president (z) here also the sanhedrim sometimes sat, since we are told that Ben Sutda was tried and stoned at Lud or Lydda (a); and here likewise they intercalated the year (b), it being in Judea: this place was situated in a plain; so says Jerom (c), "they that dwell in Sephela, that is, in the plain, Lydda and Emmaus, which design Diospolls and Nicopolis, shall possess the Philistines.'' And with this agrees the account the Talmudists (d) give of it, "the country of Judea was divided into three parts, the hill country, the plain, and the valley; from Bethhoron to Emmaus was the hill country; from Emmaus to Lydda was the plain or champaign country; and from Lydda to the sea, the valley.'' Hence also we read (e) of , "the plain of Lydda": and now Peter coming from Jerusalem, and the hill country of Judea, into this plain and champaign country, is properly said to come down to the saints there. So Quadratus in Josephus (f) is said to come up from Lydda to Jerusalem. This place was near the Mediterranean sea; and was in Jerom's time called Diospolis (g), and in the time of R. Benjamin (h) Seguras; it is the same with Lod in Ezr 2:33 The builder of it was Shamed the son of Elpaal, Ch1 8:12. It was in the times of Josephus (i) a village, yet not inferior to a city for greatness. It is now called S. Georgia. And here it seems some saints or Christians dwelt, whom Peter, among the rest, visited; and which is mentioned for the sake of the miracle he there wrought, next related. And these saints at Lydda very likely were converted under Philip's ministry, as he passed from Azotus to Caesarea, Act 8:40 and, it may be, were in a church state, or, however, were afterwards. Zenas the lawyer, the Apostle Paul speaks of in Tit 3:13 is said to be bishop of Diospolis, or Lydda; in the beginning of the fourth century Aetius was bishop of this place, who assisted in the council of Nice; and in the same century, anno 331, Dionysius, another bishop of this place, was present at a council at Constantinople; and in the fifth century Photinus wrote himself bishop of Lydda, in the Chalcedon council, anno 451 (k). (u) Misn. Maasersheni, c. 5. sect. 2. T. Bab. Betza, fol. 5. 1. & Roshhashana, fol. 31. 2. & Juchasin, fol. 37. 1. (w) T. Bab. Pesachim, fol. 93. 2. & Gloss. in ib. (x) Juchasin, fol. 105. 1. (y) T. Bab. Kiddushin, fol. 40. 2. T. Hieros. Pesachim, fol. 30. 2. (z) Misn. Roshhashana, c. 1. sect. 6. (a) T. Hieros. Sanhedrin, fol. 25. 4. (b) Ib. fol. 18. 3. (c) In Obad. 1. 19. (d) T. Hicros. Sheviith, fol. 38. 4. (e) Misn. Sheviith, c. 9. sect. 2. (f) De Bello Jud. l. 2. c. 12. sect. 8. (g) Epitaph. Paulae, fol. 59. A. (h) ltinerar. p. 52. (i) Antiqu. l. 20. c. 5. sect. 2. (k) Reland. Palestina Illustrata, 1. 3. p. 878, 879. Vid. Magdeburg. Hist. Eccles. cent. 4. c. 2. p. 2. cent. 5. c. 2. p. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:31 This verse is one of several in Acts that detail the numerical and spiritual growth of the church (see also 2:41; 4:4; 5:14; 6:1, 7; 12:24; 21:20). • The first Christians were discovering the truth of the principle, “the fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge” (Prov 1:7; 9:10; cp. Job 28:28; Ps 111:10; Eccl 12:13; see Luke 7:16), and they were growing in their faith (cp. Acts 2:43; 19:17).