People of Acts

Question 1

Barnabas

Answer 1

A wealthy Jew from Cyprus, originally named Joseph. Was a prominent member of the church in Jerusalem and gave generously to that community. Nicknamed “Barnabas (Son of Encouragement)” by the apostles. Oversaw the church in Syrian Antioch. Introduced Paul (Saul) to the apostles and Antiochene church leadership. Accompanied Paul on 1st missionary journey.

Question 2

Stephen

Answer 2

One of seven Hellenistic “deacons” in the early church in Jerusalem. First Christian martyr. Stoned by a crowd of which Paul (Saul) was a part.

Question 3

Philip

Answer 3

One of seven Hellenistic “deacons” in the early church in Jerusalem. Evangelized Samaria and an Ethiopian eunuch.

Question 4

Cornelius

Answer 4

Pious Roman centurion in Caesarea & 1st Gentile convert (evangelized by Peter).

Question 5

Paul

Answer 5

Originally Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee and persecutor of the church in Judea and Damascus. Confronted by the risen Christ & became the chief apostle to the Gentiles in early Christianity.

Question 6

(John) Mark

Answer 6

Cousin of Barnabas & companion of Paul. Joined Paul and Barnabas on their 1st missionary journey but returned to Jerusalem early, earning Paul’s ire. Later was a trusted companion of Paul & Peter.

Question 7

James (the Just)

Answer 7

Brother of Jesus and leader in the Jerusalem church. A prominent proponent of Jewish customs, yet helped resolve the problem of the inclusion of Gentiles in the church by advocating their acceptance without submission to the Mosaic Law. Author of the letter of James.

Question 8

Silas

Answer 8

A prominent member of the Jerusalem church and companion of Paul. Sent to Antioch with the Jerusalem Council decree, where he joined Paul on his 2nd missionary journey and beyond.

Question 9

Timothy

Answer 9

A Jewish disciple from Lystra & protégé of Paul from his 2nd missionary journey on.

Question 10

Priscilla and Aquila

Answer 10

Jewish disciples from Rome and companions of the apostle Paul. Paul joined them in Corinth (as tent-makers). They later helped pastor a house-church in Ephesus.

Question 11

Apollos

Answer 11

Jewish convert from Alexandria, Egypt. A trained rhetorician (and disciple of John the Baptist?), he was taught the gospel by Priscilla and Aquila and encouraged to preach in Corinth.