Acts 13:43

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {G1161} when the congregation {G4864} was broken up {G3089}, many {G4183} of the Jews {G2453} and {G2532} religious {G4576} proselytes {G4339} followed {G190} Paul {G3972} and {G2532} Barnabas {G921}: who {G3748}, speaking {G4354} to them {G846}, persuaded {G3982} them {G846} to continue {G1961} in the grace {G5485} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

When the synagogue meeting broke up, many of the born Jews and devout proselytes followed Sha’ul and Bar-Nabba, who spoke with them and urged them to keep holding fast to the love and kindness of God.

Berean Standard Bible

After the synagogue was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who spoke to them and urged them to continue in the grace of God.

American Standard Version

Now when the synagogue broke up, many of the Jews and of the devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas; who, speaking to them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 13:43 describes the immediate aftermath of Paul's powerful sermon in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch, where a significant number of both native Jews and Gentile proselytes, deeply impacted by the message, chose to follow Paul and Barnabas. Recognizing their receptiveness, the apostles engaged them personally, earnestly persuading them to remain steadfast in their reliance upon and experience of God's unmerited favor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Paul's extensive sermon in the synagogue of Pisidian Antioch, recorded in [Acts 13:16-41](/acts/13-16-41 "Paul's Sermon in Pisidian Antioch"). In this sermon, Paul masterfully traces God's redemptive history from Abraham through David, culminating in the presentation of Jesus as the promised Messiah, whose death and resurrection offer forgiveness of sins and justification not attainable through the Law of Moses. The sermon concludes with a stark warning against rejecting this message. The congregation's positive response in [Acts 13:42](/acts/13-42 "The Gentiles ask for more") and their dispersal in [Acts 13:43](/acts/13-43 "Jews and Proselytes Follow Paul and Barnabas") sets the stage for the apostles' continued ministry to those who showed genuine interest, highlighting the initial success of the Gospel proclamation and the need for follow-up.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Pisidian Antioch was a significant Roman colony in the province of Galatia, strategically located and home to a diverse population, including a substantial Jewish community and many "God-fearers" (Gentiles who worshipped the God of Israel but had not fully converted to Judaism). Synagogues served as vital centers not only for Jewish worship but also for community gathering and the dissemination of religious teaching, often attended by these Gentile proselytes. The fact that "many of the Jews and religious proselytes" followed Paul and Barnabas indicates the widespread appeal of the Gospel message to both groups, transcending traditional ethnic and religious boundaries. This openness was crucial for the expansion of the early church beyond its Jewish origins.
* **Key Themes:** [Acts 13](/acts/13 "Paul's First Missionary Journey Begins") is foundational to understanding Paul's missionary strategy and the early church's growth. A key theme evident here is the **initial reception of the Gospel**, demonstrating how God prepares hearts to receive His word, as seen in the eager response of the crowd in [Acts 13:42](/acts/13-42 "The Gentiles ask for more"). This verse also underscores the **importance of discipleship and perseverance**, as Paul and Barnabas don't just preach and leave, but actively engage with those who respond, urging them to "continue in the grace of God." This highlights that conversion is just the beginning; ongoing spiritual formation and steadfastness are vital. Furthermore, the emphasis on "the grace of God" establishes a central **theological theme of salvation by grace**, a concept Paul would later elaborate on extensively in his epistles (e.g., [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Salvation is by Grace Through Faith")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **continue (Greek, _epiménō'_):** From G1961, meaning "to stay over, i.e., remain (figuratively, persevere)." This word conveys the idea of abiding, persisting, or tarrying in a particular state or place. In this context, it is a strong exhortation to steadfastness and perseverance in their newfound faith and relationship with God, emphasizing that their initial positive response must translate into ongoing commitment.
* **persuaded (Greek, _peíthō'_):** From G3982, meaning "to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy, to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexively or passively, to assent (to evidence or authority), to rely (by inward certainty)." This indicates that Paul and Barnabas engaged in earnest and convincing communication, aiming to win over their listeners to a deep conviction and commitment, not through coercion, but through compelling truth and heartfelt exhortation.
* **grace (Greek, _cháris'_):** From G5485, meaning "graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude)." This pivotal word refers to God's unmerited favor, His benevolent disposition, and the divine influence that empowers and sustains believers. It is the very foundation of their salvation and ongoing spiritual life, contrasting sharply with any reliance on human works or legalistic adherence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now when the congregation was broken up":** This phrase, using the Greek word _lyō_ (G3089), signifies the formal dismissal or dissolution of the synagogue assembly. It marks the transition from the public sermon to a more personal interaction, indicating the conclusion of the regular service but the commencement of individual follow-up.
* **"many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas":** This describes the immediate and tangible response to Paul's sermon. "Many" (G4183, _polýs_) indicates a significant number, and the distinction between "Jews" (G2453, _Ioudaîos_) and "religious proselytes" (G4339, _prosḗlytos_, and G4576, _sébomai_, "religious") highlights the broad appeal of the Gospel across ethnic and religious lines. Their act of "following" (G190, _akolouthéō_) implies not just physical accompaniment but a desire for further instruction and connection, indicative of genuine interest.
* **"who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God":** This clause reveals the apostles' pastoral heart and their immediate follow-up strategy. "Speaking to them" (G4354, _proslaléō_) indicates direct, personal conversation. They "persuaded" (G3982, _peíthō_) them, using earnest exhortation and conviction, to "continue" (G1961, _epiménō_) in "the grace of God" (G5485, _cháris_ and G2316, _theós_). This is the core message: to remain steadfastly reliant on God's unmerited favor, which is the source of salvation and the means of sustained spiritual life, rather than reverting to legalism or human effort.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. **Narrative Progression** is evident as the text moves from the formal synagogue setting to a more intimate, personal interaction, showcasing the dynamic nature of early Christian outreach. The use of **Direct Exhortation** by Paul and Barnabas ("persuaded them to continue in the grace of God") provides a clear, concise summary of their pastoral message, emphasizing the critical importance of perseverance. The phrase "grace of God" functions as a powerful **Theological Term**, encapsulating the core of the New Covenant message and contrasting with the Law-based system that many of the listeners would have been accustomed to. The distinction between "Jews and religious proselytes" serves as a form of **Categorization**, highlighting the universal appeal of the Gospel and the diverse audience it reached, foreshadowing the broader Gentile mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 13:43 profoundly connects to the overarching New Testament theme of salvation and the Christian life being sustained by God's unmerited favor, not human effort. The apostles' exhortation to "continue in the grace of God" is a foundational call to perseverance rooted in divine provision rather than self-reliance. It underscores that the same grace that initiates salvation is also the grace that empowers believers to live righteously and remain steadfast in their faith. This concept is central to Pauline theology, emphasizing that our standing before God, our spiritual growth, and our hope for eternity are all gifts freely given through Christ.

* [Romans 5:2](/romans/5-2 "Standing in Grace Through Faith")
* [Colossians 1:23](/colossians/1-23 "Continuing in the Faith")
* [Hebrews 12:15](/hebrews/12-15 "Looking Carefully Lest Anyone Fall Short of Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 13:43 offers timeless principles for both individual believers and the church as a whole. For the individual, it's a powerful reminder that our Christian journey is not a sprint, but a marathon, requiring consistent reliance on God's grace. It challenges us to examine where our trust truly lies: in our own efforts and achievements, or in the boundless, unmerited favor of God revealed in Christ. To "continue in the grace of God" means actively trusting His provision, seeking His strength daily, and allowing His transforming power to shape our lives, rather than falling back into legalism or self-sufficiency. For the church, this verse highlights the critical importance of follow-up and discipleship. It's not enough to simply preach the Gospel; we must also nurture new believers, providing encouragement, instruction, and a supportive community to help them grow firm in their faith and persevere amidst challenges. This requires intentional relationships and ongoing pastoral care, ensuring that those who respond to the Gospel are equipped to live out their commitment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on your own efforts rather than God's grace?**
* **How can you more intentionally "continue in the grace of God" in your daily walk?**
* **What steps can you take to support and encourage new believers in their journey of faith, helping them to persevere?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to be a "religious proselyte" in this context?**

Answer: A "religious proselyte" (Greek: _prosḗlytos_ and _sébomai_) refers to a Gentile who had converted to Judaism, or more broadly, a "God-fearer" – someone who worshipped the God of Israel, adhered to certain Jewish customs (like Sabbath observance and dietary laws), and attended synagogue services, but had not necessarily undergone full conversion (which for men would include circumcision). These individuals were often spiritually hungry and therefore particularly receptive to the Gospel message, which offered a way to God that transcended ethnic boundaries and the full demands of the Mosaic Law. Their presence in the synagogue and their positive response to Paul's message highlights the fertile ground for the Gospel among those already seeking truth and righteousness.

**Why was it important for Paul and Barnabas to persuade them to "continue in the grace of God"?**

Answer: The Jewish context meant that many listeners were accustomed to a system of law and works for righteousness. While Paul's sermon had just presented justification through faith in Jesus, there was always the risk that new believers might revert to trying to earn God's favor through adherence to the Law or other human efforts. The apostles' exhortation to "continue in the grace of God" was a crucial call to persevere in their reliance on God's unmerited favor as the sole basis for their salvation and ongoing spiritual life. It emphasized that their new relationship with God was a gift, sustained by His power, not by their performance. This message was foundational to prevent them from falling away from the true Gospel and returning to a legalistic mindset, as Paul would later address in his letter to the Galatians (e.g., [Galatians 3:1-3](/galatians/3-1-3 "Foolish Galatians, Who Has Bewitched You?")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The exhortation to "continue in the grace of God" finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of God's grace, the very means by which God's unmerited favor is extended to humanity. We do not merely continue in an abstract concept of grace, but in the living, personal grace found in Christ. His finished work on the cross is the supreme act of divine grace, securing our redemption and offering us a new covenant relationship with God (as highlighted in [Romans 3:24](/romans/3-24 "Justified Freely by His Grace")). To "continue in the grace of God" means to remain steadfastly united with Christ, drawing all our life, strength, and hope from Him. He is the Vine, and we are the branches; our ability to bear fruit and persevere is entirely dependent on abiding in Him (as Jesus Himself teaches in [John 15:4](/john/15-4 "Abide in Me, and I in You")). Therefore, Paul and Barnabas's call was, in essence, a call to persevere in their faith in Jesus, the source and sustainer of all true grace, who enables believers to stand firm and live a life pleasing to God (as seen in [Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence")).

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

Acts 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.

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.

Philippians 3:16

Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.

2 Corinthians 6:1

¶ We then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.

Philippians 4:1

¶ Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, [my] dearly beloved.

Acts 17:34

Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which [was] Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

Romans 11:6

And if by grace, then [is it] no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if [it be] of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.