Major Milestones

 Acts 11:19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.

This chapter begins with the response of the First Church at Jerusalem to the message Peter brought back about Cornelius and other Gentiles responding to the Gospel. At first there was apprehension, but soon Peter convinced them that it was real and wonderful.  Meanwhile, this church at Antioch became a stronghold of faith and growth, evidenced by the effect they had on the community: The name of Christ was being glorified.  After this, the expansion of the Gospel was confirmed when the Gentile believers responded generously to the news that the church in Jerusalem and Judea was experiencing hardship.  Both churches were of one heart and purpose, ready and waiting for what would come next.