Acts 11:23

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Who {G3739}, when he came {G3854}, and {G2532} had seen {G1492} the grace {G5485} of God {G2316}, was glad {G5463}, and {G2532} exhorted {G3870} them all {G3956}, that with purpose {G4286} of heart {G2588} they would cleave unto {G4357} the Lord {G2962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On arriving and seeing for himself the grace of God at work, he was glad; and he encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with their whole hearts;

Berean Standard Bible

When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to abide in the Lord with all their hearts.

American Standard Version

who, when he was come, and had seen the grace of God, was glad; and he exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 11:23 captures the profound joy and pastoral wisdom of Barnabas upon witnessing the genuine work of God's grace among the new Gentile believers in Antioch. His response was not merely observation but immediate exhortation, urging them to maintain their newfound faith with an unwavering, intentional commitment to the Lord, thereby highlighting the essential balance between divine enablement and human perseverance in the Christian life.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of the early church's expansion beyond its Jewish origins in Jerusalem. Following the persecution that arose after Stephen's martyrdom, believers were scattered, leading some to preach the Gospel to Gentiles in Antioch, a significant Hellenistic city. The success of this ministry, specifically the conversion of a "great number" of Greeks, prompted the Jerusalem church to send Barnabas to investigate. Acts 11:19-22 sets the stage, describing the initial preaching to Gentiles and the report reaching Jerusalem. Barnabas's arrival in Antioch (Acts 11:23) marks a pivotal moment, affirming the legitimacy and divine origin of this Gentile movement, which then leads to his partnership with Saul (Paul) and the establishment of Antioch as a major missionary hub, as detailed in [Acts 11:25-26](/acts/11-25-26 "Acts 11:25-26 - Saul and Barnabas in Antioch").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Antioch was the third-largest city in the Roman Empire, a bustling metropolis with a diverse population, including a substantial Jewish community and a strong Hellenistic (Greek) influence. This made it a strategic location for the spread of the Gospel to Gentiles, a groundbreaking development given the prevailing Jewish-Gentile tensions and the traditional understanding that salvation was primarily for Israel. The church in Antioch thus represented a significant cultural and theological shift, challenging deeply ingrained Jewish customs and demonstrating God's universal redemptive plan. Barnabas, a Levite from Cyprus, was known for his generosity and encouraging spirit, earning him the nickname "Son of Consolation" ([Acts 4:36](/acts/4-36 "Acts 4:36 - Barnabas, Son of Consolation")). His character made him an ideal envoy to bridge the cultural divide and affirm the Gentile believers.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 11:23 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the **Sovereignty and Grace of God** in extending salvation to all peoples, demonstrating that the Holy Spirit's work is not confined by ethnic or cultural boundaries. Barnabas "had seen the grace of God," acknowledging that the conversions were a divine initiative, not merely human persuasion. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Christian Perseverance and Intentional Discipleship**. The exhortation to "cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart" emphasizes that faith is not a one-time event but an ongoing, deliberate commitment, requiring steadfastness amidst challenges. This echoes the call for endurance seen throughout the New Testament, such as in [Colossians 1:23](/colossians/1-23 "Colossians 1:23 - Continuing in the Faith"). Thirdly, the verse exemplifies the crucial role of **Pastoral Encouragement and Leadership**. Barnabas's response was not judgmental or critical but affirming and edifying, embodying the compassionate and guiding nature of true spiritual leadership, a model for all who minister to others in the faith.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **grace (Greek, _cháris'_):** This term refers to God's unmerited favor, divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life. In Acts 11:23, Barnabas observed the tangible manifestation of this grace in the transformed lives and spiritual growth of the Antiochian believers. It signifies that their conversion and flourishing were not due to human effort but to God's benevolent, empowering work.
* **exhorted (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** Meaning "to call near," "to invite," "to invoke," or "to urge strongly," this word describes Barnabas's pastoral action. It implies a supportive yet firm appeal, offering comfort, encouragement, and a strong call to action. Barnabas didn't just observe; he actively engaged, providing spiritual guidance and motivation to the new converts.
* **cleave unto (Greek, _prosménō'_):** This verb means "to stay further," "to remain in a place," or "to adhere to" and "persevere in." When coupled with "the Lord" and "purpose of heart," it conveys the necessity of an enduring, steadfast, and intentional commitment to Christ. It's not a temporary adherence but a deep, continuous devotion, emphasizing loyalty and perseverance in faith.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God":** This clause introduces Barnabas's arrival in Antioch and his immediate observation. The "grace of God" refers to the visible evidence of divine favor and power at work among the Gentile converts, manifest in their faith, growth, and community. Barnabas, with discernment, recognized that this spiritual flourishing was clearly God's doing.
* **"was glad":** Barnabas's emotional response was one of profound joy. This gladness stemmed from witnessing the genuine, undeniable presence and activity of God's Spirit among people previously outside the covenant, confirming the universal scope of God's redemptive plan.
* **"and exhorted them all":** Beyond mere observation and joy, Barnabas took active pastoral initiative. He "exhorted" (encouraged, urged, comforted) every believer present, demonstrating his role as a spiritual leader and encourager. This was a crucial step in nurturing the nascent community.
* **"that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord":** This final clause reveals the content and intention of Barnabas's exhortation. "Purpose of heart" (Greek: _prothesis kardias_) signifies a deliberate, internal resolve and sincere intention. "Cleave unto the Lord" means to remain steadfastly devoted, loyal, and continuously connected to Jesus Christ. This highlights the importance of intentional, unwavering commitment in discipleship.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Observation** is key, as Barnabas "had seen the grace of God," emphasizing the tangible and verifiable nature of God's work. This observation leads to an emotional response of **Joy**, highlighting the appropriate human reaction to divine activity. The verse also utilizes **Exhortation**, a form of direct address and encouragement, which is central to the pastoral function of Barnabas. The phrase "purpose of heart" is a form of **Metonymy**, where "heart" stands for the inner person, including one's will, intellect, and emotions, signifying a deep, internal commitment rather than superficial adherence. Finally, "cleave unto the Lord" functions as a **Metaphor** for unwavering spiritual adherence and loyalty, painting a picture of intimate and continuous connection.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 11:23 powerfully illustrates the dynamic interplay between divine grace and human responsibility in the Christian life. Barnabas's joy was rooted in seeing God's unmerited favor at work, transforming lives and expanding the kingdom. Yet, this divine initiative did not negate the need for human perseverance; rather, it empowered it. His exhortation to "cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart" underscores that genuine faith requires an active, intentional, and sustained commitment. This commitment is not born of human strength alone but is a response to the very grace that God has extended. The verse thus teaches that while salvation is entirely by grace, discipleship demands deliberate adherence and steadfast devotion, ensuring that believers remain rooted in Christ and continue to walk in the light of His truth.

* [John 15:4](/john/15-4 "John 15:4 - Abide in Me")
* [Colossians 1:23](/colossians/1-23 "Colossians 1:23 - Continue in the Faith")
* [Hebrews 10:39](/hebrews/10-39 "Hebrews 10:39 - Perseverance of the Saints")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Barnabas's experience in Antioch serves as a timeless model for believers and leaders alike. His immediate reaction of gladness at seeing God's grace reminds us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and discernment, actively looking for and celebrating the evidence of God's transformative work in our own lives, in our communities, and throughout the world. This joy should fuel our own commitment and our ministry to others. Furthermore, Barnabas's exhortation to "cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart" is a profound call to intentional, unwavering discipleship. In a world of fleeting commitments and shifting loyalties, this verse challenges us to examine the depth of our devotion to Christ. It's not enough to merely believe; we are called to abide, to persevere, and to make a conscious, daily choice to remain intimately connected to Him, allowing His grace to empower our steadfastness. This requires a deliberate posture of the heart, a settled resolve to follow Him no matter the cost, recognizing that our spiritual vitality depends on this continuous adherence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways have you recently "seen the grace of God" at work in your own life or in your community?**
* **What does it mean practically to "cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart" in your daily life?**
* **How can you, like Barnabas, be an "encourager" to others in their faith journey, helping them to remain steadfast?**
* **What distractions or challenges might hinder your "purpose of heart" in cleaving to the Lord, and how can you address them?**

### FAQ
**Why was Barnabas "glad" to see the grace of God among the Gentiles?**

Answer: Barnabas's gladness stemmed from a deep understanding of God's universal love and redemptive plan. As a devout Jew, he would have been aware of the traditional separation between Jews and Gentiles. However, his character as the "Son of Consolation" ([Acts 4:36](/acts/4-36 "Acts 4:36 - Barnabas, Son of Consolation")) and his spiritual discernment allowed him to recognize that the conversions in Antioch were not merely human efforts but a clear, undeniable manifestation of God's unmerited favor and power extending salvation beyond ethnic boundaries. This was a fulfillment of prophetic promises (e.g., [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - Light to the Gentiles")) and a confirmation that the Holy Spirit was truly at work among all who believed, regardless of their background. His joy reflected a heart aligned with God's expanding kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 11:23, while focusing on Barnabas's response to the early church, finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Jesus Christ. The "grace of God" that Barnabas witnessed in Antioch is supremely embodied in Christ, who is "full of grace and truth" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). It is through His sacrificial death and resurrection that God's unmerited favor is poured out upon humanity, making salvation possible for both Jew and Gentile ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith")). Furthermore, Barnabas's exhortation to "cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart" is a direct call to steadfast devotion to Jesus, who is the "Lord" (Greek: _Kyrios_) to whom believers are to adhere. He is the Vine in whom we must abide ([John 15:4](/john/15-4 "John 15:4 - Abide in Me")), the Good Shepherd whom we follow ([John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")), and the author and perfecter of our faith ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking Unto Jesus")). Our ability to "cleave" is not by our own might but by the power of the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent to indwell and empower believers ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")), enabling us to remain faithful to the One who first loved us and gave Himself for us. Thus, Barnabas's message is a timeless call to Christ-centered perseverance, rooted in His grace and empowered by His Spirit.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 15:58

¶ Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Acts 14:22

Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

Acts 13:43

Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

Acts 20:24

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

1 John 2:28

¶ And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

Colossians 1:6

Which is come unto you, as [it is] in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as [it doth] also in you, since the day ye heard [of it], and knew the grace of God in truth:

2 Timothy 3:10

¶ But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,