Acts 14:28

And there they abode long time with the disciples.

And {G1161} there {G1563} they abode {G1304} long {G3756}{G3641} time {G5550} with {G4862} the disciples {G3101}.

And they stayed for some time there with the talmidim.

And they spent a long time there with the disciples.

And they tarried no little time with the disciples.

Commentary

Acts 14:28 concludes the account of Paul and Barnabas's first missionary journey, highlighting their return to Antioch in Syria, the church that had commissioned them. After extensive travels and trials, this verse describes a period of rest and fellowship.

Context

Following their arduous and fruitful first missionary journey, which saw them preach the Gospel across Cyprus and Asia Minor, Paul and Barnabas returned to their home church in Syrian Antioch. Just prior to this verse, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done with them, and how He had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. This period of "abiding long time" served as a vital time of consolidation before the next phase of their ministry.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Rest and Fellowship: The verse emphasizes the importance of a period of rest and spiritual refreshment for ministers after intense work. It also underscores the value of communal life and fellowship within the believing community.
  • Accountability and Reporting: Their return to Antioch and the subsequent long stay allowed them to fully debrief and share their experiences with the church that sent them, demonstrating accountability in ministry. This practice reinforces the bond between missionaries and their sending body.
  • Church Strengthening: This time would have been used for teaching, discipleship, and strengthening the local church in Antioch, preparing it for future challenges, such as the Jerusalem Council debate that soon followed concerning Gentile converts.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "abode long time" translates the Greek verb dietribon (διέτριβον), which implies spending a considerable or extended period. It suggests more than just a brief visit, indicating a substantial duration of stay, likely involving ongoing teaching, ministry, and fellowship with the disciples in Antioch, where believers were first called Christians.

Practical Application

Acts 14:28 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Value of Community: Even seasoned missionaries need the support, fellowship, and spiritual nourishment of their home church. We are not meant to serve in isolation.
  • Importance of Rest: Intense ministry or service requires periods of rest and recovery to prevent burnout and ensure sustained effectiveness.
  • Sharing God's Work: Just as Paul and Barnabas shared their testimonies, we are called to share how God is working in our lives and ministries, encouraging and building up the body of Christ.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 11:26

    And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

  • Acts 15:35

    Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.
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