King James Version
What Does Acts 15:41 Mean?
“And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.”
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.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(41) **He went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.**—Cilicia, it will be remembered, had not been visited on St. Paul’s first journey with Barnabas, and the churches must accordingly have been founded at some earlier period, probably during St. Paul’s residence at Tarsus before he came to Antioch (Acts 9:30; Acts 11:25).
**Confirming** is, it need hardly be said, used in the general sense of “strengthening,” but as the bestowal of spiritual gifts by the laying-on of hands was a chief part of the work so done, it, at least, approximates to the idea of “confirming” in the later and more technical sense of the term.
**Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
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Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge