The apostles and brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles received the word of God. The circumcision party criticized Peter, but Peter explained the events of chapter 10. When they heard all about it they glorified God saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.” The persecution of the church scattered believers as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch – they only talked to Jews. Some spoke to Hellenists preaching the Lord Jesus, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. When the church in Jerusalem heard, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. He exhorted them to remain faithful, and many were added to the Lord. Barnabas went to Tarsus, found Saul, and brought him to Antioch, and they met with the church and taught many for a year. At Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. Prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch – one (Agabus) told of a worldwide famine, so they sent relief to the brothers living in Judea as every one had ability. They sent it to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
God begins to grow the church through the conversion of Gentiles. The preaching of the Word of God brings sinners to repentance. Their care for the needy was expressed in caring for brothers and sisters in Christ who were needy in the midst of famine. Also, it’s in Antioch that disciples of Christ were first called Christians. Think of the progress of the gospel throughout time. Here I sit in the United States, and God has powerfully brought the gospel to me, on the other side of the world. I’m not sure where you are as you read this, but are you amazed by God’s grace in bringing the gospel around the globe? Give praise to God for His kindness to bring you His Word.