Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

ACTS 9:31KJV
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Acts 9:31 (KJV)

What does Acts 9:31 mean?

Acts 9:31 describes a time when the early Christian communities across Judaea, Galilee, and Samaria experienced peace, grew stronger, and increased in number as they lived with respect for the Lord and encouragement from the Holy Spirit. The verse highlights a period of stability and growth for the churches after earlier times of trouble.

This verse comes after the dramatic conversion of Saul (later called Paul), who had been persecuting Christians. With Saul no longer a threat, the believers enjoyed a break from persecution. The author, Luke, notes that the churches were "edified" (built up), and that their daily lives were marked by reverence for God and a sense of comfort or encouragement from the Holy Spirit, leading to more people joining them.

The Greek behind Acts 9:31

  • ἐκκλησίαι (ekklēsiai, "churches"): This word refers to the gathered communities of believers, not buildings. It emphasizes that these were groups of people spread across different regions.
  • εἰρήνη (eirēnē, "rest" or "peace"): The Greek word here means more than just a pause in conflict; it often carries the sense of well-being and harmony, showing that the churches were not just safe but thriving.
  • οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō, "edified"): This word means to build up or strengthen, suggesting that the communities were growing in faith and unity, not just in numbers.
  • παράκλησις (paraklēsis, "comfort"): The Greek term can mean comfort, encouragement, or help, pointing to the active role of the Holy Spirit in supporting and guiding the believers during this peaceful time.

Why Acts 9:31 matters

  • Acts 9:31 shows that the early church's growth was not just about numbers but also about spiritual strength and encouragement, highlighting both inner and outer well-being.
  • The verse marks a turning point in Acts, connecting the story of Saul’s conversion to a new chapter of peace and expansion for the church.
  • By mentioning Judaea, Galilee, and Samaria, the verse reminds readers that the message of Jesus was spreading beyond Jerusalem, fulfilling earlier promises that the gospel would reach wider regions.

Where else these words appear

“Samaria” Greek G4540 · used in 11 verses

  • Luke 17:11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
  • John 4:7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.
  • Acts 8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.

“multiplied” Greek G4129 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 24:12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
  • Acts 7:17 But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,
  • Hebrews 6:14 Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.

“comfort” Greek G3874 · used in 28 verses

  • Luke 2:25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
  • 2 Corinthians 1:3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
  • 2 Corinthians 8:17 For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.

“edified” Greek G3618 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
  • Luke 4:29 And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong.
  • Acts 4:11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.