Acts 11:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 11:19
19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
Chapter Context
Acts 11 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, fellowship, faith. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 11:19
19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
Analysis
After Stephen's martyrdom, scattered believers 'travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.' Persecution scattered the church, but they continued preaching despite danger. Initially they preached only to Jews, not yet grasping the full scope of the Gentile mission. From a Reformed perspective, God used persecution (intended by Satan to destroy the church) to spread the gospel geographically. Even the believers' initial limitation to Jewish audiences served God's purposes in progressive revelation of the Gentile mission.
Historical Context
This scattering (Acts 8:1) occurred circa AD 33-35. Believers reached Phoenicia (Lebanese coast), Cyprus (Barnabas's homeland), and Antioch (major Syrian city). This geographical expansion fulfilled Jesus' prediction (Acts 1:8) that persecution would push the gospel outward.
Reflection
- How does God use persecution and suffering to advance His gospel purposes?
- Why did early believers initially preach only to Jews despite the Great Commission?
- What does progressive revelation teach about God's patience with our limited understanding?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G3056 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- Word: Acts 15:35
- Parallel theme: Acts 4:36, 15:3, 15:22, 21:2