Understanding Acts 14:26

Acts 14:26 (KJV): "And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled."

Summary of Meaning

This verse marks a significant moment in the early church as it recounts the return of Paul and Barnabas to Antioch after their missionary journey. The reference to being "recommended to the grace of God" underscores the divine empowerment they received for their mission, and the fulfillment of their work highlights the importance of the mission they undertook for spreading the Gospel.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of the grace of God in missionary work. He explains that their success was not merely due to their own efforts but because they were set apart by divine will. He highlights the need for believers to depend on God's grace for the work they are called to do.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes observes the strategic move of returning to Antioch, the place of their commissioning. He points out that this act serves to encourage the church at Antioch by providing them with a report of God's work among the Gentiles. Barnes suggests that their report may have strengthened the faith of the early believers.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke elaborates on the significance of being "recommended to the grace of God," noting that it implies a divine endorsement of their mission. He also addresses the idea of fulfilling their work, suggesting that the completion of their mission was marked by the recognition and acceptance of Gentiles into the faith.

Connections and Cross-References

Acts 14:26 connects with numerous other biblical passages, illustrating broader themes and illustrating the unity of scripture. Here are some relevant cross-references:

• Acts 13:2: "As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them." This verse shows their initial commissioning.
• Romans 15:18-19: "For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed." This emphasizes their mission to the Gentiles.
• 1 Corinthians 15:10: "But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain." This reflects on the grace aspect of their ministry.
• Galatians 2:7-9: "But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter..." This illustrates the dual mission to Jews and Gentiles.
• 2 Timothy 4:5: "But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry." This calls for diligence in ministry work.
• Philippians 1:6: "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." Highlighting God's continuing work.
• Acts 2:47: "Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." The growth of the church is fundamental.

Thematic Connections

Through various biblical texts, Acts 14:26 invites exploration of the following themes:

• Divine Commissioning and Grace: The acts of commissioning by God through the Holy Spirit are pivotal for understanding divine purpose.
• Mission and Fulfillment: The completion of missionary work emphasizes the fulfillment of God's plan for the church.
• Encouragement in the Church: The feedback from missionaries serves not only to celebrate success but to strengthen and uplift the body of Christ.

Conclusion

Acts 14:26 serves as a potent reminder of the divine grace that empowers believers in their mission. It illustrates the connections between the work of the early apostles, the church's response, and the overarching themes of grace and fulfillment in the Gospel narrative.