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In verses 19 through 30, the discussion returns to the Jews scattered at the beginning of
chapter 8. Part of those scattered travel to Antioch and begin a church.

Act 11:20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to
Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.

Some Jews witnessed to other Jews alone (verse 19) while others also witnessed to the Gentiles
(verse 20).

SIGNS AND WONDERS

Act 11:21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned
unto the Lord.

When “the hand of the Lord” is mentioned, it is a reference to signs and wonders. The miracles
draw attention to the gospel, and many Gentiles are born again.

STRIVING TO MAINTAIN GRACE

Act 11:22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in
Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.

From his humble beginnings, when he first gave to the church in Jerusalem (4:36), Barnabas has
become a great minister. He understands grace and will later become the leader of the Antioch
church and travels with Paul on his first missionary journey

Act 11:23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them
all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.

Barnabas remains in Jerusalem with the disciples after the stoning of Stephen (8:1). He
continues in Jerusalem through the decline of the church and has been disturbed by what he
has observed. He knows something is wrong, but has not identified the problem and is praying
to discover what it is. God then sends Barnabas to Antioch, and he is so impressed with the
attitude of grace he observes in these believers that he exhorts them to maintain it (Galatians
5:1).

Barnabas remains a man of grace, and what is so visible in Antioch is the grace of God. This is a
stark contrast to Jerusalem. Peter later discovers the same grace (Galatians 2:11-21).

Barnabas is not legalistic. If he had been, he would have been angry at the freedom he saw in
Antioch. Grace always irritates legalistic people. Legalistic people will try to pull others down
into their traditions and works. Christians must strive to maintain grace (Hebrews 4:11).

Act 11:24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was
added unto the Lord.

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