Acts 14:28 (KJV)

What does Acts 14:28 mean?

Acts 14:28 describes how Paul and Barnabas stayed for a significant period with the disciples in Antioch after returning from their missionary journey. The verse highlights a time of remaining and fellowship with the local believers, rather than immediately setting out again.

Paul and Barnabas had just finished a long and challenging trip, sharing the message about Jesus in various cities. After reporting to the church in Antioch about what God had done, they chose to spend an extended time with the disciples there. This pause allowed for encouragement, teaching, and strengthening of the community before any future travels.

The Greek behind Acts 14:28

• ἔμειναν (G1304, transliterated "emainan"): This word is often understood as "remained" or "stayed continually." The Greek here carries the sense of not just a brief visit, but a settled, ongoing presence.
• χρόνον (G5550, transliterated "chronon"): This word means "time" and, together with the word for "long," emphasizes that their stay was not short or hurried.
• μετὰ (G4862, transliterated "meta"): This preposition means "with" and shows that Paul and Barnabas were not isolated but were actively among the disciples, sharing life and faith together.

Why Acts 14:28 matters

• Acts 14:28 clears up any idea that Paul and Barnabas were always traveling; it shows they valued staying put to build up the local church.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by marking a transition point between missionary journeys, highlighting the importance of rest and community.
• This moment of remaining with the disciples sets the stage for the important discussions and decisions that follow in Acts 15, showing that time spent with fellow believers was foundational for early church life.