Book of Acts - Chapter 11 - Verse 21
Meaning
This verse from the book of Acts (11:21) illustrates the powerful presence of God in the lives of believers. The phrase "the hand of the Lord was with them" signifies the divine protection, guidance, and support that God provided to those who were spreading the message of the gospel. This divine intervention resulted in a great number of people believing in the message and turning to the Lord. It highlights the idea that with God's presence and blessing, the efforts of believers can yield incredible results and lead many to faith. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on God's strength and guidance in all endeavors, especially when it comes to sharing the good news of salvation with others. It encourages believers to trust in God's hand at work in their lives and to continue sharing the message of hope and salvation with confidence and faith.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of the phrase "And the hand of the Lord was with them" suggests that the presence and power of God was actively working alongside the believers, assisting them in their ministry and evangelism efforts. This phrase emphasizes the divine intervention and guidance that the early Christians received as they spread the message of Christ. The phrase "a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord" indicates the success of their efforts in bringing people to faith. This demonstrates the transformative power of the Gospel and the impact it had on those who heard and accepted it. The word "believed" suggests not just intellectual assent but a deep trust and commitment to the Lord. In addition, the phrase "turned unto the Lord" emphasizes the act of repentance and conversion, signifying a turning away from sin and a turning towards God. Overall, this verse highlights the importance of God's hand in the work of evangelism and the response of individuals to the message of salvation.