Definition: And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 11:1. It's a really important part of how Jesus’ ministry began! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it tells us that the people who were following Jesus – the apostles and their followers – learned about God’s message being shared with everyone , not just Jewish people. Let’s unpack it a little further: “The apostles and brethren…” : This refers to the original twelve apostles who were closest to Jesus. “Brothers” is a key part of this, as it means they were disciples – those who had been taught by Jesus and followed him. “…were in Judaea.” : "Judaea" was the region around Jerusalem at the time, which was a Jewish area under Roman rule. "...heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God." : This is the core of the verse. “Gentiles” means people not Jewish – essentially, non-Jews. The word "received" means they were learning about and understanding God's message. So, what does this tell us? It’s a huge sign that Jesus was inviting everyone to come into faith with him. Jesus wasn't just talking to Jewish people; he was offering the good news of God's love and grace to all humanity – including those who weren’t part of his original group. Why is this important? This verse marks a turning point in history because it shows that God’s message wasn't just limited to Jewish people. It was spreading outwards, reaching out to everyone through Jesus! It's a foundational story for understanding how Christianity began and grew. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about this time in history? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail?

Definition: And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very interesting passage from Acts 11:10. It's a pretty unique and symbolic statement! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a series of events where God raised up a group of people who were previously drawn up into heaven. Let’s unpack that a little further: “And this was done three times…” – This refers to multiple instances of God's intervention. “…and all were drawn up again into heaven.” – This is the key part. It means that God, through his power and grace, brought these people back into a position where they were previously in Heaven. The Significance: This story is a powerful illustration of God’s ultimate plan for humanity. It shows: God's Sovereignty: He has the power to take things away (drawing people up) and then restore them again (bringing them back). God’s Restoration: It represents a complete and final restoration of all who have been drawn from Heaven. In essence, it’s a story about God's ultimate victory over sin and death. Does that make sense? Would you like me to elaborate on any part of this explanation, or perhaps tell you more about the context of Acts 11:10 within the larger narrative of the early church?

Definition: And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 11:11. It’s a really important part of how Jesus started his ministry in Jerusalem! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that Jesus had already sent three men from Caesarea (a city near the Mediterranean) to meet him in Jerusalem. Let's unpack it a bit more: Acts 11:11: This is the exact wording of the verse. It’s a record of what happened shortly after Jesus started his ministry. “And, behold…” : This is a way of saying “And then…” or “And at that time…” It's a little dramatic phrase used to introduce something important. “…immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was…” : This means that before Jesus arrived in Jerusalem, three men had already arrived at his home. Why is this significant? This verse shows that Jesus wasn't just starting a new ministry; he was actively preparing for it! He was sending people to be with him and to help spread the good news of his message. It’s like setting up a team before you start working on a big project. Do you want me to: Explain a specific meaning within that verse? Give you some context about what happened in Caesarea?

Definition: And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man’s house:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 11:12. It’s a really important passage about how the early church started spreading their message! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling the leaders of the church to go and help them with their mission. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the spirit bade me go with them…” : This means that a powerful force – perhaps guided by the Holy Spirit – was urging the leaders to follow along. It’s like a gentle push or a clear instruction. “Nothing doubting.” : This is super important! It shows the leaders were confident and willing to trust in God's guidance. They weren’t hesitant or unsure about what to do. “Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man’s house:” This tells us that six people – likely some of the most important early believers – were joining the group. "Man’s house" is a very old term for a house, and it’s where this group was going. They started with a small group, but they grew as they went into the house. So, what's the big takeaway? It shows that God wants to help the early church spread their message throughout the world. He’s giving them permission and support to do so! In short, it's a declaration of faith and a call to action – let's go and share the good news with others! --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a larger theme in the Bible (like spreading the Gospel)?

Definition: And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 11:13. It’s a really important passage about God’s plan and how things start to unfold. Here's the explanation in simple terms: Basically, it means: “God showed him that He had seen an angel in his house who told him to send men to Joppa to find a man named Peter.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “And he shewed us…” – This is a more poetic way of saying "God revealed." It's suggesting that God was actively showing something to us. “…how he had seen…” - This tells us that the angel didn’t just tell us; he showed us something. “…an angel in his house…” – This is a classic imagery from the Bible. Angels are often depicted as being messengers or travelers, and this verse suggests a significant encounter. “…which stood and said…” - The angel was present and speaking to him. “…unto him…” - The angel was addressing him . “…sent men to Joppa…” - He told him to send people to the city of Joppa, which is located about 100 miles northeast of Jerusalem. “…and call for Simon…” – The angel instructed him to find a man named Simon (later known as Peter). What's the bigger picture? This verse is a key part of how Jesus started his ministry in Jerusalem. Jesus had already been preaching, but this angel’s message was about preparing the way for him to come. It’s like planting a seed – the angel showed us what was coming, and then he sent someone to nurture it. In short: God revealed an angel who told Jesus to send people to Joppa to find a man named Peter, which is where the story of Jesus’ early ministry begins. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "angel" means in biblical context? Discuss the significance of Simon Peter?

Definition: Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 11:14: “Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.” Here's a simple explanation: This verse is about mission and spreading the Gospel (the good news of Jesus Christ). It’s essentially saying that someone – likely a leader or messenger – has been given a special responsibility to share the message of Jesus with everyone. Let’s unpack it further: “Who shall tell thee…” : This refers to a person who is entrusted with delivering this important message. It suggests a trusted and qualified individual. “…words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.” : This is the core of the verse. "Words" here means communication . “Bythwo” (or "whereby") refers to the power or ability to communicate something. The phrase "all thy house" – this is a figurative expression for everyone – meaning everyone who has been given the opportunity to hear and understand the message. “Saved” signifies that the message will lead to eternal life and freedom from sin. In short, it's a call for evangelization - encouraging others to receive and share the good news of Jesus. Think of it like this: Someone is being given a special job – to tell people about the amazing things Jesus did and the promise of eternal life – so they can be saved from sin and death. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Or, perhaps, do you have a specific question about the meaning of this verse that you’d like me to answer?

Definition: And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 11:15: “And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.” It's a really interesting and significant moment in early Christian history! Here’s what it means, explained simply: What’s Happening? Peter is Speaking: The verse describes a pivotal moment where Peter is starting to preach or share his message of faith. He’s essentially beginning to present the Gospel – the good news about Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit Falls: This is the key part! As Peter speaks, the Holy Spirit descends upon the crowd. It's like a divine presence descending and filling them with power and spirit. What Does it Mean? It’s not just any spirit falling; it’s the Holy Spirit . The Bible describes the Holy Spirit as a powerful force – often associated with guidance, wisdom, and divine intervention. Here's what it signifies: Confirmation and Revelation: The falling of the Holy Spirit is seen as an experience – a revelation of God's will being made known to those who are listening. It’s like a sudden, clear understanding that something profound is happening. New Life & Transformation: The Holy Spirit falling transforms people. It signifies a new beginning, a shift in hearts and minds. It’s an opportunity for forgiveness and acceptance of Jesus. God's Presence: The verse emphasizes God's active involvement – He isn’t just talking; He is actively working through this event. It’s a Symbolic Moment It’s important to remember that this wasn't a literal, physical falling of the Holy Spirit. It was a symbolic event – a powerful, transformative experience that signified God’s power and grace moving into the world. In short: Peter’s words started a spiritual awakening in the crowd, and the Holy Spirit descended to empower and transform them. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this event in more detail? Relate it to a specific theme in the Bible (like faith, repentance, or forgiveness)?

Definition: Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 11:16 together. It’s a really important and fascinating part of early Christianity! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying that Paul understands the message God wants to be shared. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Acts 11:16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord” : This is Paul telling us he's remembering something important – a message from God. He’s recalling a specific teaching or instruction he received. “how that he said…” : This part means “that he said …”. He’s recalling a specific statement made by God. “John indeed baptized with water” : This is the key part! Paul is remembering that John, a Jewish prophet, was baptizing people in the river Jordan. He's reminding us that baptism is a symbol of being cleansed and receiving forgiveness from God. “but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.” : This is the crucial part – it’s telling us what Paul remembers. He’s saying, “Now, you too will receive the power and gift of the Holy Spirit!” The Holy Spirit is often seen as a divine presence and power within God. So, putting it all together: Paul understands that God wants to share His message with people. He remembers John baptizing in the Jordan River, and he’s telling us that we are invited to receive that same gift – the Holy Spirit – through baptism. Why is this important? This verse is a foundational moment in Christian history! It shows that God's message wasn't just limited to Jewish people. It opened the door for many people, including Paul himself, to be transformed and given access to the divine power within Christianity. In short, it’s about God revealing Himself and inviting everyone to experience His presence. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you'd like me to answer? For example: Are you curious about its context in the book of Acts? Would you like a more detailed explanation of what baptism means?

Definition: Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as [he did] unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 11:17. It's a really interesting and somewhat philosophical statement! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about someone who was initially skeptical or doubtful about Jesus Christ – and then believed in him. It’s asking, “How can I stand against God when I’m already believing?” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Forasmuch then…who gave them the like gift as [he did] unto us…” : This means that we , the early Christians, were given a similar gift – a spiritual blessing – to believe in Jesus. It's suggesting that we too had been blessed with faith and belief. “…who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ” : This is the core of the point. It’s about someone who actually believed in Jesus as Savior. “What was I, that I could withstand God?” : This is the really challenging part. It's a question of power and authority. The speaker is asking: “If I’m already believing, why am I still facing God’s judgment or authority?” It’s essentially saying: "I'm experiencing faith, but I'm afraid of what might happen if my belief is challenged." What it means in a broader sense: This verse speaks to the early church's struggle with doubt and fear. It highlights the importance of: Faith over Fear: Belief isn’t just about knowing something; it’s about trusting it, even when things get scary. Standing Firm in Faith: It encourages believers to hold firm to their beliefs despite potential opposition or challenges. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a reflection of the early church's vulnerability – they were facing persecution and uncertainty. It’s a moment of deep faith and awareness of the risks involved. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Give you some context about the situation in Acts 11:17?

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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 11:18. It's a really important passage about spreading the good news of Jesus Christ! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that when God heard about what was happening – people were starting to believe and want to turn away from their old ways and towards Him – He also gave them the opportunity to repent (change their mind) and be saved. Let's unpack it a little further: “When they heard these things…” This refers to the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem who were warning people that Jesus was a threat. They were trying to stop him. “…they held their peace…” They were quiet and respectful, not arguing or pushing back. It was a moment of listening. “…and glorified God…” This means they recognized the importance of God and acknowledged His authority. “Saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.” This is the core of the verse. “The Gentiles” are people outside of Israel – meaning non-Jews. God has also given them a chance to turn away from their sins and choose Him as their Savior. The word "repentance" means to change your mind about what you’ve done wrong, and "life" refers to eternal life with God. So, the whole verse is saying that God is interested in helping everyone – not just Jewish people – to find a relationship with Him. It's an invitation to come to faith in Jesus Christ. Why is this important? This story shows that God’s love and mercy are boundless. He wants everyone to be saved and have a relationship with Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the story of Acts 11:18?