Acts 14:28 – “And they stayed there a long time with the disciples.”

Extended Explanation

This verse concludes the account of Paul and Barnabas’ first missionary journey. After traveling through various regions, facing opposition, preaching the gospel, and planting churches, they finally returned to Antioch in Syria, where they had originally been sent out (Acts 13:1-3).

Instead of quickly leaving for another mission, they stayed for a long time with the believers in Antioch. This was a period of rest, fellowship, and discipleship. Paul and Barnabas were not just missionaries; they were also part of a church family.

This verse reminds us that ministry is not just about going—it is also about staying. After seasons of intense labor, God often provides times of renewal and deeper community.

Historical Context

Paul and Barnabas had just returned from an incredibly difficult journey. They had:

• Traveled through many cities, preaching the gospel.
• Faced serious persecution, including Paul being stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19).
• Strengthened new believers and appointed elders in the churches (Acts 14:22-23).
• Reported back to their sending church in Antioch (Acts 14:27).

Antioch was one of the first major Christian centers, second only to Jerusalem in importance. It was where believers were first called Christians (Acts 11:26). The church there was deeply invested in spreading the gospel, and they had sent out Paul and Barnabas with God’s blessing (Acts 13:1-3).

By staying “a long time” in Antioch, Paul and Barnabas were not just resting but likely teaching, encouraging, and preparing for future ministry. This period of stability helped them recover physically, reconnect with fellow believers, and strengthen the church.

Theological Implications

1. Rest is part of God’s plan – Even the most dedicated missionaries and leaders need times of renewal. God does not expect endless work without seasons of rest and fellowship.
2. The Christian life is not just about evangelism—it’s also about discipleship – Paul and Barnabas spent time teaching and strengthening the church. New believers need ongoing guidance, not just a one-time message.
3. Ministry is relational – The early church was not just an organization; it was a family. Paul and Barnabas did not view themselves as outsiders but as part of the Antioch church.

Literary Analysis

This verse serves as a quiet but important conclusion to the missionary journey.

• The phrase “they stayed there a long time” suggests an intentional period of stability. It contrasts with the fast-paced action of the previous chapters, where Paul and Barnabas were constantly moving from city to city.
• The mention of “with the disciples” shows that this time was about community and growth, not isolation.

Luke, the author of Acts, often uses transitional statements like this to prepare the reader for the next big event. In the next chapter (Acts 15), a major controversy arises about whether Gentile believers should follow Jewish laws. Paul and Barnabas’ time in Antioch may have given them the wisdom and clarity needed for that upcoming debate.

Biblical Cross-References

• Mark 6:31 – Jesus told His disciples, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Even Jesus encouraged times of renewal.
• Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission includes not just evangelism but also teaching and discipling—which Paul and Barnabas were doing in Antioch.
• Acts 2:42 – The early church devoted themselves to “the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship.” Paul and Barnabas were following this same model.
• Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good.” Paul and Barnabas’ time in Antioch likely helped them avoid burnout.
• 2 Timothy 2:2 – Paul later tells Timothy to entrust the faith to reliable people who will teach others. This is exactly what Paul and Barnabas were doing in Antioch.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. We need to balance work and rest – Paul and Barnabas had worked hard, but they also took time to stay and be refreshed. In our own lives, we should recognize that seasons of rest are not wasted time—they prepare us for what’s next.
2. Christianity is about relationships – The church is not just a place to attend services; it’s a family where believers support each other. We should be committed to staying connected with fellow Christians, not just serving alone.
3. Discipleship is an ongoing process – Just as Paul and Barnabas took time to teach and strengthen believers in Antioch, we should invest in helping others grow in their faith.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reveals God’s care for His servants. He does not call people to endless work without renewal. Instead, He provides seasons of rest, encouragement, and fellowship.

God’s love is also seen in His design for the church. He created the church as a community of believers where people can grow, heal, and be strengthened for future service.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul and Barnabas’ return to a place of community and rest reflects Jesus’ own pattern of ministry.

• Jesus often withdrew to be with His disciples (Luke 5:16). He knew that rest and time in fellowship were essential.
• Jesus promised His followers rest (Matthew 11:28-30). His way is not about constant striving, but about finding strength in Him.
• Jesus’ ministry was relational – He didn’t just preach and leave. He built deep relationships with His disciples, just as Paul and Barnabas did in Antioch.

Ultimately, this verse points us to the ongoing work of Christ in His church—gathering His people, strengthening them, and preparing them for future ministry.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Paul and Barnabas chose to stay in Antioch for a long time instead of immediately going on another mission?
2. How does this verse challenge our view of work and rest in the Christian life?
3. What does this verse teach us about the importance of Christian community?
4. How can we follow Paul and Barnabas’ example by investing in discipleship and encouraging others?
5. Are you in a season of work or a season of rest and renewal? How can you embrace what God is doing in this season?

This verse might seem simple, but it carries a powerful lesson: following God’s call isn’t just about going—it’s also about staying, strengthening, and resting. Whether we are in a season of mission, discipleship, or renewal, God is always at work in and through us.