Page 57 - AlNashra issue 2 - 2023
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throughout the Greco-Roman world, catalyzed recognized as the cradle of the Gentile mission,
the development of globally renowned Christian demonstrated of solidarity with the churches in
liturgical prayers. These prayers continue to Judea from its inception, establishing itself as a
resonate within the devotional practices of leader in contributing to the support of fellow
various Christian denominations today. believers. This “fellowship of the ministering to
In the latter part of Acts 11, it is revealed that the saints” (2Co 8:4 NKJ) underscores the unity
the Antiochian Church assigned Barnabas and ethos advocated by St Paul.
Paul the task of bringing collected contributions
to the disciples in Jerusalem. The next chapter,
Acts 12, unveils crucial historical details about
the circumstances surrounding the Twelve
in Jerusalem, introducing the name of John
Mark into the narrative for the first time. The
chapter concludes by stating that Barnabas
and Saul successfully completed their mission
in Jerusalem, delivering the collections for the
destitute. Subsequently, they brought Mark
along and returned to Antioch (Acts 12:25).
This historical incident, predating the Apostolic
Synod in Jerusalem, later narrated in Acts 15,
sets the historical context for St. Paul’s statement
in Galatians 2:10. In this articulate narrative, St.
Paul underscores the singular request issued by
the apostles James, Peter, and John – to always
remember the poor. Promptly, he asserts that
he already had diligently endeavored to fulfill
this philanthropic obligation. Notably, Antioch,
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