Studies regarding the central message of Scripture—The Gospel. This section explores the definition of the “Good News” and the vital distinction between the “Gospel of the Kingdom” preached by Jesus and the Twelve, and the “Gospel of the Grace of God” revealed to Paul for the present Church Age (Acts 20:24; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
The Arabians, a distinct group in the New Testament, were present at Pentecost and encountered Paul during his early ministry. Their involvement in early Christianity highlights God’s plan to bring salvation to all nations, showing that Arabia was not beyond the reach of the Gospel.
The Libyans, North African people from modern-day Libya, were present at Pentecost and played a role in early Christian evangelism. Their story highlights how God’s plan of salvation extends to all nations, making them part of the expansion of the Gospel beyond Israel.
The Cyrenians, North African Jews living in Cyrene, played a crucial role in early Christianity, from Simon of Cyrene carrying Jesus’ cross to Cyrenian believers evangelizing Antioch. Their story highlights how God uses people from all nations to fulfill His redemptive plan.
The Tyrians, seafaring traders from Phoenician Tyre, were historically wealthy and idolatrous but later embraced the Gospel. Jesus’ ministry in their region highlights God’s mercy to all nations, proving that true faith is not based on heritage but on seeking Christ.
The Spaniards, though not directly mentioned in biblical events, were among the unreached peoples on Paul’s heart. His reference to bringing the Gospel to Spain in Romans 15 highlights God’s plan for Christianity’s expansion into the Western world.
The Italians, represented by Cornelius the centurion, were among the first Gentiles to receive the Gospel. His conversion in Acts 10 marked a historic turning point, proving that salvation through Jesus Christ was available to all nations.
The Cypriots, inhabitants of Cyprus, played a crucial role in early Christianity through the work of Barnabas and Paul. As one of the first regions to receive the Gospel, Cyprus became a stronghold of Christian faith, proving that God’s message is for all nations.
The Illyrians, a warlike people from the Balkans, were among the earliest Europeans to hear the Gospel, as Paul stated he had preached “from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum” (Romans 15:19). Their transformation from pagan warriors to early believers shows the power of the Gospel to reach all nations.
The Thracians, a fierce and warlike people north of Greece, were among the earliest Europeans to embrace Christianity. Through Paul’s missionary efforts and trade connections, the Gospel reached Thrace, proving that God’s grace can transform any people group.
Paul’s encounter with the Lycaonians in Acts 14 began with a miracle and ended with persecution. Yet from that region came Timothy, a key figure in the early Church.
The Galatians were Celtic tribes who settled in Asia Minor and received one of Paul’s most important letters. Learn how their story shapes our understanding of grace.
The Pamphylians, mentioned in Acts 2:10, were among those who heard the Gospel at Pentecost, signifying the expansion of Christianity into coastal Asia Minor. Later, Paul and Barnabas traveled through Pamphylia, ensuring that Christian communities were established and strengthened.
The Phrygians, mentioned in Acts 2:10, were among the first to hear the Gospel at Pentecost, signaling the expansion of Christianity into Asia Minor. Despite their pagan religious traditions, many Phrygians embraced the faith, contributing to the growth of early Christianity.
The Parthians, a powerful empire opposing Rome, were among those present at Pentecost (Acts 2:9), hearing the Gospel in their own language. Their inclusion highlights that God’s kingdom is for all nations, even those beyond the Roman world, fulfilling the prophecy that salvation would reach to the ends of the earth.
The Arabs, mentioned in Acts 2:11, were among the first non-Jewish peoples to hear the Gospel at Pentecost. Their presence signified the early expansion of Christianity into Arab lands, fulfilling God’s plan for the Gospel to reach all nations.