Verses 1-18
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Verses 15-16 (w/ 10:44,46). Note that being “baptized in the Holy Spirit” includes receiving the power of the Spirit for spiritual gifts. God desires this for all believers!
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Verses 16-18. When God baptized the Gentiles in the power of the Spirit for the first time, this was proof to Peter and to the rest that God had received them. The Spirit's power on a person is one form of definitive proof that a person is saved (Ephesians 1:13-14).
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When God receives a person into His kingdom, we no longer have any right to criticize or doubt them (verse 9). Be welcoming to anyone who becomes a believer (Romans 15:7)!
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Verses 19-26
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Verses 19-21. Another instance here of common believers preaching the gospel everywhere. Be ready to preach the gospel anywhere and to anyone.
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When you make it a priority to see more people saved, you will see more of the Lord's help in your life.
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Verses 22-23. It is important not only to win souls, but also to strengthen new believers, teach them, and encourage them to grow in their faith.
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If you have a new believer in your life, spend more time with them, to encourage their growth.
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Verses 27-30
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Verse 27. Prophets existed then, and prophets exist today; and they are important (Ephesians 4:11, 1 Corinthians 12:28).
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Revelation 11:3 is evidence that prophets will exist until the return of Christ.
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Prophets are inspired speakers, delivering messages that come from the Holy Spirit. This can include predictions of future events.
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Verse 28. One of the purposes of a prophet in the church is to warn us of approaching hardships.
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Verse 29. This church in Antioch wanted to support the church in Judea. It is good for churches to support one another.
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Each individual disciple wanted to set aside some of their own money, as much as they could afford, to support the Judean believers.
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Always set aside some of your money, and save it up for the purpose of helping others (1 Corinthians 16:2).
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As with these disciples in Antioch, you do not have to give more than what you actually have. Give “according to your ability.” This means give what you can afford to give.
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