Acts 15:3

KJV

And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G3303}{G3767} being brought on their way {G4311} by {G5259} the church {G1577}, they passed through {G1330} Phenice {G5403} and {G2532} Samaria {G4540}, declaring {G1555} the conversion {G1995} of the Gentiles {G1484}: and {G2532} they caused {G4160} great {G3173} joy {G5479} unto all {G3956} the brethren {G80}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After being sent off by the congregation, they made their way through Phoenicia and Shomron, recounting in detail how the Gentiles had turned to God; and this news brought great joy to all the brothers.

Berean Standard Bible

Sent on their way by the church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, recounting the conversion of the Gentiles and bringing great joy to all the brothers.

American Standard Version

They therefore, being brought on their way by the church, passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 15:3 chronicles the pivotal journey of Paul and Barnabas from Antioch to Jerusalem, undertaken with the full support of the Antiochian church. As they traversed the regions of Phoenicia and Samaria, they shared compelling testimonies of the Holy Spirit's work among the Gentiles, detailing their conversions to faith in Christ. This groundbreaking news resonated deeply with the Christian communities they encountered, eliciting profound joy among all the believers, underscoring the expanding scope of God's redemptive plan beyond traditional ethnic boundaries.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate narrative bridge between the theological dispute in Antioch and the momentous Jerusalem Council. Having completed their first missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch, where they were confronted by certain Jewish believers insisting that Gentile converts must be circumcised and adhere to the Mosaic Law for salvation ([Acts 15:1](/acts/15-1 "Acts 15:1 - The Dispute Over Circumcision")). This profound theological disagreement, threatening the very nature of the gospel, necessitated an authoritative resolution. The church in Antioch, recognizing the gravity of the matter, commissioned Paul, Barnabas, and others to travel to Jerusalem to consult with the apostles and elders ([Acts 15:2](/acts/15-2 "Acts 15:2 - Paul and Barnabas Sent to Jerusalem")). Thus, Acts 15:3 describes their journey and the significant impact of their message along the way, setting the stage for the crucial deliberations that would define the early church's stance on Gentile inclusion, culminating in the council's decision recorded in [Acts 15:6-29](/acts/15-6-29 "Acts 15:6-29 - The Jerusalem Council's Decision").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early Christian movement, originating within Judaism, faced immense internal tension regarding the inclusion of non-Jews. For centuries, Jewish identity was inextricably linked to the covenant of circumcision and adherence to the Torah. The conversion of Gentiles, particularly without full adoption of Jewish customs, challenged deeply ingrained cultural and religious paradigms. The regions of Phoenicia (modern-day Lebanon) and Samaria were historically complex. Phoenicia, with its coastal cities like Tyre and Sidon, had long been a center of diverse trade and culture, often interacting with Jewish communities. Samaria, populated by descendants of Israelites who intermarried with Assyrians, had a long-standing antagonistic relationship with Judea, though Jesus himself had initiated ministry there ([John 4](/john/4 "John 4 - Jesus and the Samaritan Woman")). The fact that Paul and Barnabas found receptive "brethren" in these areas, and that the news of Gentile conversions brought them joy, highlights the transformative power of the gospel to transcend historical animosities and cultural barriers, fostering a new, inclusive community of faith.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 15:3 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the **universal scope of the gospel**, demonstrating God's redemptive plan extending beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries to include the Gentiles. This aligns with the Great Commission given by Christ to make disciples of all nations ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission")). Secondly, the verse highlights the **unity and fellowship within the early church**, as believers in various regions shared in the joy of God's work, transcending geographical distance and potential theological differences. The act of the church "bringing them on their way" symbolizes communal support and shared mission, echoing the church's role in sending out Paul and Barnabas on their initial journey ([Acts 13:1-3](/acts/13-1-3 "Acts 13:1-3 - The Church at Antioch Sends Out Paul and Barnabas")). Finally, the "great joy" signifies the **affirmation of the Holy Spirit's work**, as the conversions of Gentiles were not merely human initiatives but divine acts, confirming God's approval of this inclusive movement, reminiscent of the Spirit's outpouring on Cornelius's household ([Acts 10:44-48](/acts/10-44-48 "Acts 10:44-48 - The Holy Spirit Falls on Gentiles")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **brought on their way (Greek, _propémpō'_):** From the Greek _propémpō_ (G4311), meaning "to send forward, i.e., escort or aid in travel." This term signifies more than a mere farewell; it implies active support, provision, and endorsement by the Antiochian church. It suggests that the church not only approved of their mission to Jerusalem but also provided for their needs and perhaps even accompanied them for a portion of their journey, demonstrating their solidarity and shared conviction regarding the importance of this delegation.
* **declaring (Greek, _ekdiēgéomai'_):** From the Greek _ekdiēgéomai_ (G1555), meaning "to narrate through wholly" or "to declare." This word implies a detailed, comprehensive, and continuous recounting of events. Paul and Barnabas were not merely giving a brief report but were sharing extensive testimonies, likely including specific stories of conversions, miraculous interventions, and the evident work of the Holy Spirit among the Gentiles. This thorough narration was crucial for conveying the full impact and divine validation of the Gentile mission.
* **conversion (Greek, _epistrophḗ'_):** From the Greek _epistrophḗ_ (G1995), meaning "reversion, i.e., morally, revolution." This term denotes a turning around, a radical change of direction, specifically a moral or spiritual transformation. It signifies the decisive act of turning from idolatry and sin to God, embracing faith in Christ. The "conversion of the Gentiles" therefore refers to their complete spiritual reorientation and their entrance into a new relationship with God through faith, apart from the Mosaic Law.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And being brought on their way by the church,"**: This opening clause establishes the official nature of Paul and Barnabas's journey. They were not traveling on their own initiative but were formally commissioned and supported by the church in Antioch. This communal backing underscores the unity and shared purpose of the early Christian community, emphasizing that the mission to Jerusalem was a collective endeavor to resolve a pressing theological issue.
* **"they passed through Phenice and Samaria,"**: This specifies the geographical route taken by Paul and Barnabas. Traveling from Antioch (in Syria) to Jerusalem (in Judea), they would naturally pass through the coastal region of Phoenicia and then the inland territory of Samaria. The mention of these regions highlights the expanding reach of the gospel beyond its initial Jewish strongholds and into areas with diverse populations, including those historically at odds with Judea.
* **"declaring the conversion of the Gentiles:"**: This is the core message Paul and Barnabas shared. As they traveled, they recounted the powerful stories of how God was bringing non-Jews to faith in Christ. This "declaring" was likely a detailed and enthusiastic testimony of the Holy Spirit's work, including specific examples of individuals and communities turning from paganism to follow Jesus, demonstrating the undeniable evidence of God's grace among the Gentiles.
* **"and they caused great joy unto all the brethren."**: The immediate and widespread response to their message was profound joy. This indicates that the news of Gentile conversions was not met with universal skepticism or opposition, but with genuine gladness among many believers in these regions. This joy stemmed from witnessing God's salvation extending to all peoples, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and confirming the inclusive nature of the new covenant community. It suggests a prevailing spirit of welcome and affirmation for Gentile believers within these Christian communities.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Narrative Progression** is evident as Luke meticulously details the journey from Antioch to Jerusalem, providing a geographical and chronological bridge to the Jerusalem Council. This movement underscores the urgency and importance of the delegation. The repeated emphasis on "declaring the conversion of the Gentiles" and the resulting "great joy" utilizes **Emphasis** to highlight the central theme of Gentile inclusion and its positive reception among many believers. This serves to build anticipation for the council's deliberations. Furthermore, the mention of "Phenice and Samaria" implicitly uses **Symbolism** of reconciliation and unity. These regions, historically distinct or even hostile to Judea, now represent places where the gospel is breaking down barriers, fostering a new spiritual kinship among "the brethren." The "great joy" itself functions as a form of **Emotional Resonance**, conveying the profound spiritual affirmation and celebration within the nascent Christian communities at the expansion of God's kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 15:3 is a powerful testament to the breaking down of barriers in the early church, a theme central to the New Testament's understanding of God's universal plan of salvation. The joy experienced by the brethren upon hearing of Gentile conversions underscores the theological truth that God's grace is not limited by ethnicity, culture, or historical animosity. This verse anticipates the full theological articulation of Gentile inclusion found in Paul's epistles, where he emphasizes that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for all are one ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ")). It reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the nations coming to the light of Israel's God, demonstrating that the Abrahamic covenant's promise to bless all families of the earth is being realized through Christ and the Spirit's work ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")). The communal joy also highlights the essential unity of the church, a body composed of diverse members, all celebrating the expansion of God's kingdom.

* [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light to the Gentiles")
* [Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")
* [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - A Multitude from Every Nation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 15:3 offers profound insights for contemporary believers and the church today. The enthusiastic sharing of conversion stories by Paul and Barnabas, and the subsequent "great joy" among the brethren, reminds us of the vital importance of celebrating God's transformative work. In a world often focused on division and negativity, the church is called to be a community that actively seeks and shares testimonies of God's grace, fostering unity and encouraging faith. This verse challenges us to embrace and champion the inclusivity of the gospel, ensuring our churches are welcoming spaces for people from every background, recognizing that God's love transcends all human-made distinctions. Furthermore, the support given by the Antiochian church to Paul and Barnabas underscores the collective responsibility of the church to commission, pray for, and financially support those who are sent out to proclaim the good news. Our mission endeavors should be a source of shared joy and communal investment, reflecting the early church's commitment to the global spread of the gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does our church actively celebrate stories of conversion and spiritual transformation, both locally and globally?**
* **In what ways can we better support those who are "sent on their way" for missions or ministry, whether through prayer, resources, or practical assistance?**
* **What barriers, visible or invisible, might exist in our communities or churches that hinder the "great joy" of seeing people from all backgrounds come to faith?**
* **How can we, individually and corporately, cultivate a deeper sense of joy and unity in response to the universal reach of God's grace?**

### FAQ

**Why was the news of Gentile conversions so significant, causing "great joy"?**

Answer: The news was profoundly significant because it represented a revolutionary expansion of God's saving work beyond the traditional boundaries of Judaism. For centuries, salvation was understood primarily through the lens of the Mosaic Law and Jewish identity. The conversion of Gentiles, particularly without requiring full adherence to Jewish customs like circumcision, demonstrated that God was extending His grace directly to all peoples through faith in Jesus Christ. This fulfilled ancient prophecies that God would bless all nations through Abraham's seed ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")) and brought immense joy to believers who understood the universal scope of God's love and the breaking down of ethnic barriers in Christ ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). It was a clear sign of God's Spirit at work, confirming the validity of the Gentile mission.

**What was the significance of Paul and Barnabas passing through Phenice and Samaria?**

Answer: The choice of route through Phoenicia (Phenice) and Samaria was both practical and symbolic. Practically, these regions lay on the natural land route from Antioch to Jerusalem. Symbolically, their passage through these areas, and the positive reception of their message there, underscored the gospel's power to transcend historical and ethnic divisions. Phoenicia was a Gentile region with some Jewish presence, while Samaria had a long-standing antagonistic relationship with Judea, though Jesus himself had initiated ministry there ([John 4:4-42](/john/4-4-42 "John 4:4-42 - Jesus and the Samaritan Woman")). The fact that "brethren" in these places rejoiced at the news of Gentile conversions highlighted the unifying power of the Holy Spirit and the gospel, demonstrating that the new community of Christ was truly inclusive, embracing those once considered outsiders.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 15:3, with its account of Gentile conversions bringing "great joy," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The breaking down of the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile, so powerfully evident in the early church's experience, is the direct result of Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross. As Paul articulates in [Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace"), Jesus "is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility." His death not only reconciled humanity to God but also reconciled diverse peoples to one another, creating "one new humanity" in Himself. The "conversion of the Gentiles" declared by Paul and Barnabas was the fruit of the Great Commission given by the resurrected Christ, commanding His followers to make disciples of "all nations" ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission")). The joy experienced by the brethren was a foretaste of the eschatological reality where a "great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages," will stand before the Lamb, worshiping Him ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - A Multitude from Every Nation")). Thus, this verse in Acts points directly to Christ as the universal Savior, whose redemptive work transcends all human boundaries, gathering a diverse people for God's glory.

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 14:27

And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

Acts 21:5

And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till [we were] out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

Acts 15:12

Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.

Acts 11:18

When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

Acts 11:19

¶ 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.

1 Corinthians 16:6

And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go.

Titus 3:13

Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.