In today’s study, we dive into the early historical accounts of the martyrs and look at the clear, dispensational truth about the preservation of the name ‘Christian’ against the Roman Empire. This lesson reveals that the persecution did not stop the church, but caused it to spread and grow stronger.
–––
▼ EVERYTHING ON THIS TOPIC ▼
Bible Believers History: Series 1 – Early Church, Episode 3: Persecution of Early Christians
---
Want the After Show and full comics? Join Bible Watcher (US$6.99/month)
Want anime, study guides, and private Discord? Join Prophecy Insider (US$12.99/month)
Create a free account to follow updates: Joyckers.com
📜 KJV BIBLE STUDY: Acts 11:26
📖 VERSE: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
— FULL ANALYSIS —
[The Church] Phrase: “And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch.” Note: Barnabas recognized the great work among the Gentiles in Antioch and sought out Saul (Paul) in Tarsus to utilize his specific calling as the future Apostle to the Gentiles. This act facilitated the critical geographical shift of ministry focus from Jerusalem (Israel’s center) to Antioch (the launchpad for the Gentile program, which would define the Church, the Body of Christ). Supporting Scriptures:
- Acts 11:25: “Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:”
[The Church] Phrase: “And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church,” Note: This phrase emphasizes dedicated time spent in establishing the new assembly. In the early Acts period, the church (ekklesia) was the called-out assembly of saved believers. In Antioch, this assembly was largely Gentile and Jewish believers saved without the requirements of the Law of Moses, anticipating the later revelation of the Mystery given fully to Paul.
[How to Study] Phrase: “and taught much people.” Note: The central function of Barnabas and Saul’s ministry was teaching. Sound doctrine is paramount for the health and growth of any assembly, whether under Israel’s program or the revelation of the Mystery (Paul’s later epistles). Paul’s unique ministry is defined by teaching the ‘doctrine which is according to godliness.’
[The Church] Phrase: “And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.” Note: This is a key transitional moment. The name ‘Christian’ (meaning followers of Christ) was likely a title given by outsiders (Gentiles or possibly scoffers). It signifies that the disciples in Antioch were recognized as a distinct body—separate from traditional Judaism. This is appropriate as Antioch was the center of Gentile salvation and the future headquarters for the ministry that would eventually reveal the distinct doctrine of the Body of Christ (Romans 16:25).
God bless,
Joyckers Ministry
–––
▼ EVERYTHING ON THIS TOPIC ▼
The Early Church