King James Version

What Does Acts 15:41 Mean?

Acts 15:41 in the King James Version says “And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.” — study this verse from Acts chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.”

Acts 15:41 · King James Version


Context

39

And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other : and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;

40

And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.

41

And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.


Commentaries4 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
Paul 'went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.' The verb 'confirming' (Greek 'epistērizō') means strengthening, establishing, making firm. This pastoral follow-up demonstrates that Paul's evangelistic zeal was matched by concern for church stability. Gospel proclamation must be accompanied by doctrinal grounding.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Syria and Cilicia contained churches from Paul's earlier ministry (Acts 9:30, 11:25-26). This visit strengthened these churches before Paul ventured into new territory in Asia Minor and Greece.

Reflection Questions

  1. How should new churches be strengthened and established in the faith?
  2. What role does doctrinal instruction play in church stability?
  3. How can you help confirm and strengthen other believers?

Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.


Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
διήρχετο1 of 10

“He was passing through”

diērcheto

G1330

to pass through

δὲ2 of 10

“then”

de

G1161

but, and, now

τὴν3 of 10

“the”

tēn

G3588

the

Συρίαν4 of 10

“Syria”

Syrian

G4947

Syria

καὶ5 of 10

“and”

kai

G2532

and, also, even

τὴν6 of 10

“the”

tēn

G3588

the

Κιλικίαν7 of 10

“Cilicia”

Kilikian

G2791

Cilicia

ἐπιστηρίζων8 of 10

“strengthening”

epistērizōn

G1991

to strengthen, confirm

τὰς9 of 10

“the”

tas

G3588

the

ἐκκλησίας10 of 10

“churches”

ekklēsias

G1577

an assembly, congregation


Study Guide

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

Acts 15:41 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Acts 15:41 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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