Acts 13:44

On the following Sabbath, nearly the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord.

Study Bible

On the following Sabbath
The phrase "on the following Sabbath" indicates a specific time frame, pointing to the Jewish day of rest and worship. The Sabbath, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, was a day set apart by God for rest and spiritual reflection, as commanded in Exodus 20:8-11. In the context of Acts, the Sabbath was a prime opportunity for Paul and Barnabas to reach both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles who gathered in the synagogue. This setting underscores the continuity of God's work from the Old Covenant to the New, as the apostles used the established rhythm of Jewish worship to proclaim the Gospel.

nearly the whole city
This phrase highlights the widespread interest and impact of the apostles' message. The city in question is Pisidian Antioch, a significant Roman colony in Asia Minor. The fact that "nearly the whole city" gathered suggests that the message of the Gospel was compelling and inclusive, reaching beyond the Jewish community to the Gentiles. This reflects the early church's mission to spread the Gospel to all nations, fulfilling Jesus' command in Acts 1:8. The gathering of such a large crowd also indicates the work of the Holy Spirit in drawing people to hear the message of salvation.

gathered
The word "gathered" implies a communal and intentional assembly of people. In the Greek, the term used is "συνέρχομαι" (synerchomai), which means to come together or assemble. This gathering was not a casual occurrence but a deliberate act of coming together to hear the apostles. It reflects the early church's emphasis on community and the shared experience of worship and learning. The act of gathering also signifies the breaking down of social and cultural barriers, as people from different backgrounds came together with a common purpose.

to hear
The phrase "to hear" emphasizes the active role of listening in the process of faith. In the biblical context, hearing is often associated with understanding and obedience. Romans 10:17 states, "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." The act of hearing in this verse is not merely passive but involves a readiness to receive and respond to the message. It underscores the importance of the proclamation of the Gospel and the responsibility of the hearers to engage with the truth being presented.

the word of the Lord
This phrase refers to the message of the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. In the Greek, "the word" is "λόγος" (logos), which can mean word, message, or reason. "The word of the Lord" signifies the divine revelation and authority of the message being preached. It is not merely human wisdom but the inspired truth of God, as revealed through Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. The focus on "the word of the Lord" highlights the centrality of Scripture in the life of the church and the transformative power of God's word to change hearts and lives. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical narrative, where God's word is seen as active, living, and powerful (Hebrews 4:12).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul and Barnabas
Key figures in the early Christian church, missionaries spreading the Gospel. They were in Antioch of Pisidia at this time, preaching to both Jews and Gentiles.

2. Antioch of Pisidia
A city in the Roman province of Galatia, significant for its diverse population and as a center for early Christian evangelism.

3. The Sabbath
The Jewish day of rest and worship, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. It was a customary time for teaching in the synagogues.

4. The Whole City
Indicates the widespread interest and impact of the Gospel message, drawing a large and diverse crowd.

5. The Word of the Lord
Refers to the message of the Gospel, the teachings of Jesus Christ, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

Teaching Points

The Power of the Gospel
The Gospel has the power to draw people from all walks of life. Just as nearly the whole city gathered, we should have confidence in the Gospel's ability to reach and transform lives.

The Importance of Community
The gathering of the whole city highlights the importance of community in hearing and responding to God's word. We should encourage communal worship and study.

Faithful Witnessing
Paul and Barnabas's example shows the importance of being faithful in sharing the Gospel, regardless of the audience or location.

Cultural Engagement
The diverse audience in Antioch suggests the need for the Gospel to be communicated in ways that engage different cultural backgrounds.

Sabbath Reflection
The use of the Sabbath for teaching reminds us of the importance of setting aside time for rest and spiritual reflection.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the response of the people in Antioch about the power of the Gospel to attract diverse audiences?

2. How does the gathering of nearly the whole city challenge our current approach to evangelism and outreach in our communities?

3. In what ways can we create opportunities for communal worship and study in our own contexts, similar to the gathering in Antioch?

4. How does the example of Paul and Barnabas encourage us to be bold in our witness, even in places where the Gospel is not yet known?

5. Reflect on the significance of the Sabbath in your own life. How can you use this time to deepen your relationship with God and engage with His word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2:41
The response to Peter's sermon at Pentecost, where many were added to the church, parallels the large gathering in Antioch.

Luke 4:16-21
Jesus reading from Isaiah in the synagogue, showing the tradition of teaching on the Sabbath and the fulfillment of prophecy.

Isaiah 55:11
God's word will not return void, emphasizing the power and reach of the Gospel message as seen in Antioch.