Acts 15:36

KJV

¶ And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, [and see] how they do.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} some {G5100} days {G2250} after {G3326} Paul {G3972} said {G2036} unto {G4314} Barnabas {G921},{G1211} Let us go again {G1994} and visit {G1980} our {G2257} brethren {G80} in {G2596} every {G3956} city {G4172} where {G1722}{G3739} we have preached {G2605} the word {G3056} of the Lord {G2962}, and see how {G4459} they do {G2192}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After some time, Sha’ul said to Bar-Nabba, “Let’s go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we proclaimed the message about the Lord, and see how they’re doing.”

Berean Standard Bible

Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the brothers in every town where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, to see how they are doing.”

American Standard Version

And after some days Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us return now and visit the brethren in every city wherein we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they fare.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 15:36 marks a crucial turning point in the early apostolic mission, revealing Paul's deep pastoral concern for the nascent Christian communities established during his first missionary journey. Following the pivotal Jerusalem Council, Paul proposes to Barnabas a systematic re-visitation of every city where they had previously preached the Gospel, driven by a desire to assess the spiritual well-being and growth of the new believers. This verse not only highlights the importance of follow-up and discipleship in evangelism but also sets the immediate stage for the significant disagreement between Paul and Barnabas regarding John Mark.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the resolution of the Jerusalem Council in [Acts 15:1-35](/acts/15-1-35 "Acts 15:1-35 - The Jerusalem Council"), a landmark event that affirmed the freedom of Gentile converts from the Mosaic Law. Paul and Barnabas had been central to advocating for the Gentiles, delivering the council's letter and decisions to the church in Antioch. With this theological and practical matter settled, Paul's attention shifts from doctrinal debate to pastoral care. The proposed journey in [Acts 15:36](/acts/15-36 "Acts 15:36 - Paul's Proposal for a Second Journey") is a direct continuation of the missionary impulse seen in [Acts 13:1-3](/acts/13-1-3 "Acts 13:1-3 - The Sending of Paul and Barnabas") and the subsequent establishment of churches across Asia Minor during their first journey documented in [Acts 13-14](/acts/13 "Acts 13 - Paul and Barnabas in Cyprus and Pisidian Antioch") and [Acts 14](/acts/14 "Acts 14 - Paul and Barnabas in Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe"). This verse also serves as the narrative prelude to the sharp contention between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark, leading to their separation and the formation of new missionary teams, as detailed in [Acts 15:37-41](/acts/15-37-41 "Acts 15:37-41 - The Separation of Paul and Barnabas").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church was experiencing rapid growth, primarily among Gentiles, which brought both excitement and significant challenges. New converts, often from polytheistic backgrounds, needed sustained teaching and discipleship to mature in their faith and integrate into the nascent Christian communities. The cities mentioned, though not explicitly named in this verse, would have included those visited on the first journey such as Antioch in Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe (cf. [Acts 14:21-23](/acts/14-21-23 "Acts 14:21-23 - Paul and Barnabas Return to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch")). These were Roman provincial cities with diverse populations, often containing Jewish synagogues where Paul and Barnabas initially preached. The concept of "visiting" (Greek: *episkeptomai*) carried a strong connotation of oversight and care, reflecting a pastoral responsibility akin to a shepherd tending his flock. Travel in the Roman Empire, though extensive, was arduous, involving long journeys by foot or sea, highlighting the dedication required for such follow-up missions.

* **Key Themes:** [Acts 15:36](/acts/15-36 "Acts 15:36 - Paul's Pastoral Initiative") contributes to several overarching themes in Acts. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Pastoral Care and Discipleship**, demonstrating that the apostolic mission extended beyond initial evangelism to the nurturing and strengthening of new believers. Paul's desire to "see how they do" reflects a deep concern for the spiritual health and steadfastness of the young churches. Secondly, it highlights the **Strategic Nature of Early Christian Missions**, revealing a systematic approach that included revisiting established churches to consolidate their faith and organization. This follow-up was crucial for the long-term stability and growth of the Christian movement. Thirdly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Human Relationships and Conflict within Ministry**, as Paul's proposal, while noble, immediately leads to a significant dispute with Barnabas, illustrating that even dedicated servants of God can have sharp disagreements, as seen in [Acts 15:37-39](/acts/15-37-39 "Acts 15:37-39 - The Dispute over John Mark"). Finally, it reinforces the centrality of **The Word of the Lord** as the foundation for both initial conversion and ongoing spiritual nourishment.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **visit (Greek, _episképtomai'_):** This word, often translated as "visit," carries a deeper meaning than a mere social call. From the provided Strong's data, it means "to inspect, i.e. (by implication) to select; by extension, to go to see, relieve." In this context, it implies a purposeful, supervisory, and benevolent visit aimed at assessing the spiritual condition of the believers, providing encouragement, instruction, and practical care. It speaks to a pastoral oversight, ensuring the health and stability of the fledgling churches.
* **the word of the Lord (Greek, _lógos tou Kyriou'_):** This phrase refers to the Gospel message, the divine communication from God through Jesus Christ. "Lógos" (word) signifies "something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse)." "Kyriou" (Lord) denotes "supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller; by implication, Master." Together, "the word of the Lord" emphasizes the authoritative, divine origin and content of the message Paul and Barnabas had preached, which formed the foundation of these new communities. Their follow-up visit was not merely social but centered on reinforcing and deepening the understanding of this foundational truth.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas":** This phrase establishes the temporal setting, indicating that a period of time had passed since the Jerusalem Council and their return to Antioch. It sets the stage for a private conversation between the two leading missionaries, highlighting Paul's initiative in proposing the next phase of their ministry.
* **"Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord":** This is the core of Paul's proposal. "Go again" (Greek: *epistréphō*) signifies a return to previously visited locations, indicating a systematic and intentional follow-up strategy. The term "our brethren" (Greek: *adelphoi*) emphasizes the familial bond and deep spiritual connection Paul felt with the converts. The scope "in every city" reveals a comprehensive plan to revisit all the communities where they had initially proclaimed "the word of the Lord," underscoring the importance of widespread pastoral care.
* **"and see how they do":** This concluding clause articulates the primary purpose of the proposed visit. "See how they do" (Greek: *pōs échousin*) implies a desire to assess their spiritual condition, their steadfastness in the faith, their growth, and any challenges they might be facing. It speaks to a genuine pastoral concern for the spiritual health and maturity of the believers, moving beyond mere evangelism to comprehensive discipleship.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Direct Speech** to convey Paul's initiative, immediately drawing the reader into the conversation and highlighting his proactive leadership. The phrase "our brethren" is a powerful example of **Familial Language**, emphasizing the strong communal bonds and the sense of spiritual kinship that characterized the early Christian church. This choice of word underscores the deep personal and pastoral connection Paul and Barnabas felt towards the new converts. The entire proposition functions as a **Narrative Catalyst**, setting in motion the events that follow, particularly the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, demonstrating how even well-intentioned plans can lead to unforeseen conflicts and new directions in the unfolding narrative of Acts.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 15:36 profoundly illustrates the early church's understanding of holistic ministry, which extends beyond initial evangelism to include diligent pastoral care and ongoing discipleship. Paul's initiative reveals a theological conviction that new converts are not merely statistical additions but spiritual children requiring nurturing, instruction, and oversight. This commitment to follow-up demonstrates the apostles' recognition that genuine faith requires roots, growth, and resilience, especially in the face of cultural pressures and nascent theological misunderstandings. It underscores the importance of strengthening local church communities as vital centers for spiritual formation and the continued spread of the Gospel. The "word of the Lord" that was preached is now to be reinforced, indicating that the foundation of their faith and practice remains the authoritative teaching of Christ.

* [1 Thessalonians 3:5](/1_thessalonians/3-5 "1 Thessalonians 3:5 - Paul's Concern for the Thessalonians")
* [Philippians 2:19-20](/philippians/2-19-20 "Philippians 2:19-20 - Timothy Sent to Philippi")
* [Colossians 1:28-29](/colossians/1-28-29 "Colossians 1:28-29 - Paul's Labor for Maturity")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 15:36 offers a timeless blueprint for effective ministry, reminding us that the work of the Gospel is not complete with a conversion experience. Paul's desire to "go again and visit our brethren... and see how they do" epitomizes the heart of true pastoral care: a proactive, intentional commitment to the spiritual well-being and maturity of believers. This verse challenges us to move beyond mere evangelistic outreach to embrace the equally vital work of discipleship, acknowledging that new faith needs nurturing, teaching, and ongoing support to flourish. It calls leaders to a deep sense of responsibility for their flock, not just to preach, but to genuinely inquire into the spiritual health of those under their care. For every believer, it highlights the importance of being rooted in a community where spiritual growth is encouraged and where "brethren" genuinely care for one another's walk with God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's initiative in Acts 15:36 challenge our modern understanding of evangelism and discipleship?**
* **In what practical ways can we, as individuals or as a church community, "visit our brethren and see how they do" in our current context?**
* **What does Paul's concern for the "word of the Lord" tell us about the foundation of spiritual growth and church health?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so important for Paul and Barnabas to revisit these cities?**

Answer: It was crucial for several reasons. Firstly, new converts, especially those from pagan backgrounds, needed ongoing instruction and support to solidify their faith and understand Christian doctrine and ethics. They were vulnerable to false teachings and cultural pressures. Secondly, these visits allowed the apostles to strengthen the nascent church structures, appoint elders, and ensure the communities were well-organized and equipped for sustained growth (cf. [Acts 14:23](/acts/14-23 "Acts 14:23 - Appointment of Elders")). Thirdly, it demonstrated genuine pastoral care and love, reinforcing the familial bonds within the early Christian movement. Paul's desire to "see how they do" was a vital part of holistic discipleship, ensuring the spiritual health and steadfastness of the new believers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Acts 15:36 focuses on Paul's pastoral initiative, it reflects a deeper truth about the nature of God's redemptive work, which culminates in Christ. Paul's concern for the spiritual well-being of the scattered believers mirrors the Good Shepherd's relentless pursuit and care for His flock. Just as Paul sought to "visit our brethren" to ensure their steadfastness, so Christ Himself is the ultimate Shepherd who continually watches over, nourishes, and sustains His sheep. His High Priestly prayer in [John 17:15-20](/john/17-15-20 "John 17:15-20 - Jesus Prays for His Disciples") reveals His ongoing intercession for His disciples, that they might be kept from evil and sanctified in truth. The "word of the Lord" that Paul preached and sought to reinforce is ultimately the living Word, Jesus Christ, who is the source of all spiritual life and growth ([John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Became Flesh")). Paul's mission to strengthen the churches foreshadows Christ's promise to build His church, against which the gates of hell will not prevail ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Christ Builds His Church")). Thus, Paul's pastoral heart in [Acts 15:36](/acts/15-36 "Acts 15:36 - Paul's Pastoral Heart") is a beautiful echo of Christ's own enduring commitment to His people, ensuring their spiritual health and ultimate perseverance until the day of His return.

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 14:6

They were ware of [it], and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:

Acts 13:4

¶ So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

Acts 14:24

And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.

Acts 14:25

And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:

Acts 13:13

Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.

Acts 13:14

¶ But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.

Acts 13:51

But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.