Peter Explains His Actions
Acts 11:1-18
Peter was criticized for being instrumental in the Gentiles receiving the word of God. The Jews, referred to as “circumcised believers,” had a problem with Peter preaching the word of God, staying with and eating with the Gentiles, referred to as “uncircumcised.” Peter explained everything to the Jews about what had happened from the very beginning when he fell into a trance on the rooftop. (Acts 11:4-17) They had no further objections and praised God for granting repentance to the Gentiles.
Questions
1. List the three things the Jews criticized Peter for doing with the Gentiles.
2. Why is there criticism of Peter at the beginning of this passage and praises to God at the end of this passage? In other words, what happened in between.
The Church in Antioch
Acts 11:19-30
Remember after the stoning of Stephen and Saul’s persecution, lots of people scattered and told the message wherever they went. Some went to Antioch, among other places. In Antioch, there were Greeks (Gentiles) who received the good news about Jesus Christ. So many turned to the Lord in Antioch that Barnabus was sent there to encourage them.
Previously, we learned that after Saul’s conversion people did not believe he had changed until Barnabas assured them that he had indeed changed. Now in Verse 25, Barnabas goes to Saul’s hometown in Tarsus to look for Saul. After finding him, Barnabas took Saul to Antioch, and they stayed there for a whole year meeting with the church. This is where the disciples were first called Christians (Acts 11:26).
Agabus, a prophet, came to Antioch and predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. The disciples believed Agabus and prepared for the oncoming famine. Gifts were sent to their brothers in Judea by Barnabus and Saul.
Questions
1. Barnabas’ name means “encourager.” Think back over your study and name the things Barnabas has done. Every time his name has come up it was in reference to doing something good.
2. Discuss Barnabas and Saul’s reunion by telling why it happened.
3. What was Agabus’ prediction?
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