Acts 15:36

And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.

Acts 15:36 (KJV)

Context

This verse comes shortly after the Jerusalem Council, where the apostles and elders decided that Gentile believers did not need to be circumcised or keep the Mosaic law for salvation. That decision brought clarity and unity, and it set the stage for further missionary work. Paul and Barnabas had already completed a missionary journey together, preaching the gospel and planting churches in several cities. Now, while they were in Antioch, the Lord’s word was being taught and preached, and Paul proposed a return visit to the believers they had left behind.

Meaning

Paul’s proposal to “go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord” reveals his heart for the churches. The “brethren” were the new converts in the congregations established during the first journey. His purpose was not merely to travel or to socialize, but to “see how they do“—to assess their spiritual condition, encourage them in the faith, and provide guidance or correction where needed. This was a deliberate act of follow-up, showing that the care of believers did not end when the missionaries moved on.

The phrase “some days after” ties this moment to the time spent in Antioch after the council. It was a natural pause before the next step, and Paul used it to plan for the ongoing health of the churches. His words reflect a shepherd’s concern: he wanted to ensure that the converts remained steadfast in the gospel and continued to grow in their walk with Christ.

Biblical connections

This verse also sets the stage for the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark. Although the plan itself was good, it led to a parting of ways, and two missionary teams were sent out instead of one. This shows that even godly plans can encounter conflict, yet God’s purposes can still advance. The focus here, however, is on the care of the churches and the spread of the gospel, not on the dispute that followed.

Application

Acts 15:36 reminds the church of the vital need for ongoing follow-up and care in ministry. Believers are called to be actively involved in the spiritual growth and well-being of fellow Christians, regularly checking on one another’s walk, offering encouragement, and providing correction when needed. It also challenges each individual to examine personal spiritual progress and seek godly guidance for continued growth.

Reflection

Paul’s example invites us to consider how we care for those who have come to faith through our witness or teaching. Do we simply move on to the next task, or do we take time to revisit, encourage, and strengthen? The verse calls us to a patient, personal investment in the lives of others, trusting that the Lord who began a good work in them will continue it as we faithfully walk alongside them.