King James Version
Acts 11:23 in the King James Version says “Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would...” — study this verse from Acts chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.”
Acts 11:23 · KJV
And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.
Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.
Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:
KJV Study — Public Domain
“when he came”
G3854to become near, i.e., approach (have arrived); by implication, to appear publicly
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“had seen”
G1492used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
“the grace”
G5485graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart
“of God”
G2316a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
“was glad”
G5463to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“exhorted”
G3870to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
“that with purpose”
G4286a setting forth, i.e., (figuratively) proposal (intention); specially, the show-bread (in the temple) as exposed before god
“of heart”
G2588the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
“they would cleave unto”
G4357to stay further, i.e., remain in a place, with a person; figuratively, to adhere to, persevere in
“the Lord”
G2962supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Acts 11:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Acts 11:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge