Acts 13:43

Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

Acts 13:43 (KJV)

Context

Acts 13 recounts Paul and Barnabas’ first missionary journey. In Antioch of Pisidia, they were invited to speak in the synagogue, where they shared the history of Israel and proclaimed Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises. This verse records the people’s response after that message.

Meaning

The phrase “when the congregation was broken up” refers to the formal synagogue meeting being dismissed, not to the building. As the people dispersed, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas. The Jews were Israelites familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures, while religious proselytes were Gentiles who had converted to Judaism and devoutly worshipped the God of Israel. That both groups followed shows the gospel’s appeal extending beyond ethnic Jews to God-fearing Gentiles.

Paul and Barnabas “persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.” The Greek word for “persuaded” (peitho) conveys urging or encouraging, and “continue” (emmeno) means to remain or abide. The apostles were not making a one-time appeal; they were engaged in ongoing conversation, urging these believers to stand fast in God’s unmerited favor. This indicates that grace is not merely a past event but a sphere in which believers must actively remain.

Application

This verse encourages believers to persevere in faith, trusting in God’s unmerited favor. Just as Paul and Barnabas urged the new believers, Christians today need ongoing encouragement to remain steadfast. The grace of God is the foundation of salvation and the power for continued obedience.

Reflection

Consider how you can respond to the gospel as these hearers did—by following Christ more closely and seeking to grow in His grace. Also, think of those who need encouragement to continue in the faith, and how you might speak to them with the same persuasive love.