Acts 11-12

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores Acts chapters 11 and 12, focusing on the early Church’s recognition that salvation and the Holy Spirit were extended to the Gentiles, as shown through St. Peter’s encounter with Cornelius. He explains the Jewish customs about circumcision and dietary laws, the opposition Peter faced from Judaizers, and the significance of baptism replacing circumcision as a mark of faith. Fr. Matthias then describes the scattering of believers due to persecution, highlighting the missionary efforts in Antioch where the term “Christian” was first used. He discusses the roles of Barnabas and Saul (Paul) and the continued work of the early prophets. The session concludes with the account of King Herod Agrippa’s persecution of the Church, including the martyrdom of St. James, the miraculous escape of St. Peter, and Herod’s death, supported by historical references from Josephus. Finally, Fr. Matthias sets the stage for Paul’s first missionary journey and the ongoing growth of the early Church.