Acts 9:31 – “Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse describes a period of growth and stability for the early church. After intense persecution, the church experienced a time of peace. This does not mean all opposition stopped, but the immediate threats—especially from Saul, who had been a primary persecutor—were removed. With Saul’s dramatic conversion and relocation to Tarsus (Acts 9:30), the aggressive attacks against Christians in Jerusalem and beyond calmed down for a time.

During this season, the church was strengthened both spiritually and numerically. The phrase “living in the fear of the Lord” means that the believers had deep respect and reverence for God, shaping their daily lives. They weren’t just growing in numbers; they were growing in faith.

Additionally, the church was encouraged by the Holy Spirit. This means the Spirit was actively at work, guiding, comforting, and empowering them. Because of this, the church continued to grow, both in spiritual maturity and in new believers coming to faith.

This verse is a reminder that God is in control. Even in times of difficulty, He provides seasons of peace and growth.

Historical Context

The early church had just gone through intense persecution. Stephen had been martyred (Acts 7), leading to widespread attacks on Christians. Saul (Paul) had been one of the main persecutors, dragging believers out of their homes and putting them in prison (Acts 8:3). However, once Saul encountered Jesus and became a follower of Christ, the persecution eased.

Another reason for the peace may have been a shift in focus by the Jewish leaders. With Saul now converted and out of Jerusalem, the immediate drive to destroy the church slowed. Additionally, Roman authorities may have seen Christianity as just another sect within Judaism, making them less inclined to intervene.

This moment of peace allowed the church to expand beyond Jerusalem into Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, fulfilling Jesus’ words in Acts 1:8—that the gospel would spread from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth.

Theological Implications

1. God Provides Seasons of Peace – Even in a world full of trials, God grants times of refreshment for His people.
2. Spiritual Growth Happens in Both Persecution and Peace – The church grew during persecution (Acts 8:1-4) but also during peace. Both seasons have a purpose.
3. The Holy Spirit Strengthens and Encourages Believers – The Spirit does not just comfort but actively helps the church grow in strength and faith.
4. The Fear of the Lord Leads to Growth – A healthy reverence for God is key to spiritual maturity and effective witness.

Literary Analysis

Luke, the author of Acts, structures this verse as a summary statement, marking a transition. Similar summary verses appear throughout Acts (e.g., Acts 2:42-47, Acts 6:7, Acts 12:24), showing patterns in the church’s development.

The phrase “enjoyed a time of peace” stands in contrast to the earlier chapters, where persecution was dominant. The “fear of the Lord” and “encouragement of the Holy Spirit” are presented as two key ingredients for church growth.

Luke’s writing also emphasizes movement—Christianity is no longer confined to Jerusalem but is spreading to Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, reflecting Jesus’ command in Acts 1:8.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Acts 2:42-47 – Another description of the early church thriving in unity and growth.
• Acts 8:1 – “On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria.” (Shows how persecution had earlier forced the church outward.)
• Matthew 16:18 – “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” (Jesus promised that His church would grow despite opposition.)
• John 14:26 – “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” (The Holy Spirit plays an active role in strengthening believers.)
• Proverbs 9:10 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” (This connects to the church “living in the fear of the Lord.”)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. God is Faithful in Every Season – Sometimes we go through hardships, and sometimes we experience peace. Both are part of His plan.
2. Spiritual Growth Requires Reverence for God – Living in the “fear of the Lord” means taking God seriously, obeying Him, and seeking His will.
3. The Holy Spirit is Our Encourager – Just as He strengthened the early church, He strengthens believers today.
4. The Church is Meant to Grow – Christianity was never meant to be stagnant. It should be expanding, both in maturity and in reaching new people.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows God’s love in how He cares for His church. He allows seasons of hardship to strengthen faith but also grants seasons of peace to restore and grow His people.

His love is also seen in the role of the Holy Spirit, who comforts, teaches, and encourages believers. God does not leave His people to struggle alone—He provides His presence through the Spirit.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

• Jesus is the head of the church – The early church grew because it was centered on Him (Ephesians 5:23).
• Jesus promised peace to His followers – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you” (John 14:27). The peace the church experienced was a fulfillment of Jesus’ words.
• Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide His followers – The Spirit encouraged and strengthened the church, just as Jesus said He would (John 16:13).
• Jesus’ mission was being fulfilled – Acts 1:8 prophesied that the gospel would spread from Jerusalem to Judea and Samaria, and this verse shows that happening.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you experienced times of peace and times of hardship in your faith journey? How has God used both to strengthen you?
2. What does it mean to live in the “fear of the Lord” in your daily life?
3. How have you seen the Holy Spirit encourage and guide you?
4. What are ways you can contribute to the growth of the church today, both spiritually and in reaching others?
5. How does knowing that God is in control of both seasons of persecution and peace bring you comfort?

This verse reminds us that the church is never stagnant—God is always working, always growing His people, and always leading His followers forward. Whether in hardship or peace, we can trust that He is guiding His church and our lives according to His perfect plan.