Acts 11:26 – “and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.”

Extended Explanation

This verse marks a turning point in the history of the church. After Barnabas went to Tarsus to find Saul (Paul), he brought him to Antioch. Together, they spent a full year teaching and strengthening the believers there. It was in Antioch that the followers of Jesus were first called “Christians.”

The term “Christian” means “little Christ” or “follower of Christ.” At first, this name may have been used by outsiders as a label for the believers. However, the name stuck, and it became a clear identity for those who followed Jesus.

The fact that Barnabas and Saul taught for a whole year in Antioch shows how important discipleship is. They didn’t just convert people and move on—they stayed, instructed, and helped believers grow in their faith.

Historical Context

1. Antioch – A Major City – Antioch was one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire and a key trade hub. It was a multicultural city with many Gentiles, making it a strategic place for the gospel to spread beyond Jewish communities.
2. The Spread of Christianity to Gentiles – Up to this point, many early believers were Jewish. However, in Antioch, both Jews and Gentiles were coming to faith, showing that the gospel was for all people.
3. The Naming of “Christians” – Before this, Jesus’ followers were often called “disciples,” “believers,” or “followers of the Way” (Acts 9:2). The name “Christian” gave them a distinct identity, separating them from other Jewish sects.

Theological Implications

1. Christianity Is Rooted in Teaching and Growth – Barnabas and Saul spent a year teaching because faith is not just about belief but also about learning and growing in understanding.
2. God Uses People to Strengthen His Church – Barnabas and Saul didn’t act alone. God brought them together to build up the believers in Antioch. This shows the importance of mentorship and community in spiritual growth.
3. Our Identity Is in Christ – Being called “Christians” means that believers are defined by their relationship with Jesus, not by ethnicity, nationality, or background.

Literary Analysis

• The Structure of the Verse – The verse has a clear sequence: Barnabas finds Saul, they teach together for a year, and the disciples receive a new identity. This progression emphasizes both action and transformation.
• The Introduction of the Term “Christian” – The verse introduces a word that would define believers for generations. The use of a new name highlights a shift in how the movement of Jesus’ followers was perceived.
• Repetition of Teaching – The emphasis on Barnabas and Saul teaching shows that learning is essential in the Christian life.

Biblical Cross-References

• Acts 9:2 – Before being called Christians, believers were known as followers of “the Way.”
• Matthew 28:19-20 – Jesus commanded His followers to make disciples and teach them. Barnabas and Saul’s teaching in Antioch reflects this mission.
• 1 Peter 4:16 – Peter later encouraged believers that if they suffer as “Christians,” they should not be ashamed but praise God. This shows that the name “Christian” became a badge of honor.
• Romans 1:16 – The gospel is for both Jews and Gentiles, just as it was spreading in Antioch.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that being a Christian is more than just a label—it is a way of life. Just as Barnabas and Saul taught the believers in Antioch, we need to be grounded in God’s Word.

It also highlights the importance of community. Saul grew in his faith with the help of Barnabas, and the believers in Antioch grew through teaching. Today, Christians need strong fellowship, solid teaching, and faithful mentorship.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He nurtures His people. He doesn’t just call people to believe in Him—He provides teachers, mentors, and communities to help them grow. The fact that believers were given a new name, “Christians,” shows that they were set apart as God’s people, marked by His love.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

• Jesus Is the Reason for the Name “Christian” – The name means “follower of Christ,” showing that Jesus is at the center of faith.
• Jesus Taught His Disciples – Just as Jesus spent years teaching His disciples (Luke 24:27), Barnabas and Saul continued that work in Antioch.
• Jesus’ Mission Included the Gentiles – The growing church in Antioch fulfilled Jesus’ words in Acts 1:8—that the gospel would go to the ends of the earth.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does being called a “Christian” mean to you?
2. How does this verse challenge you to grow in your faith through learning and discipleship?
3. Barnabas sought out Saul and mentored him. Who has been a spiritual mentor in your life?
4. How can you help others grow in their faith, just as Barnabas and Saul did?
5. What does this passage teach us about the importance of Christian community?