Message

This last half of chapter 11 records "the young church in action." From the revival, which began in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost and the eventual spread of the Gospel resulting from Saul's persecution, we now witness a series of "firsts." Gentiles were added to the Church. Barnabas was sent out as the first "missionary" from the Church in Jerusalem. He and Paul become the first "team." The first time anyone is mentioned as a prophet is recorded. The believers are first called "Christians." And the first mention of a collection being received for the relief of the saints is included to set the pattern for the New Testament Church to follow until Jesus returns.