Overview
Antioch in Syria becomes one of the most important centers of the early Christian movement outside Jerusalem. Acts presents it as a diverse church, a base for missionary activity, and the place where disciples were first called Christians.
Key Scripture
Growth of the Church
Believers scattered by persecution preach in Antioch, including to Gentiles. Barnabas is sent from Jerusalem and later brings Saul from Tarsus to help teach the growing church.
Missionary Base
Acts 13 records the church at Antioch setting apart Barnabas and Saul for missionary work. The city becomes a major launching point for the spread of the gospel into the wider Roman world.
Early Christian Identity
Acts 11:26 states that the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch, giving the city a distinctive place in the history of Christian identity.
Research Notes
Methodology: Biblical and historical. Antioch in Syria should be distinguished from other ancient cities named Antioch, including Pisidian Antioch in Acts.