Silas a Chief Man Among the Brethren
Acts 15:22-34
Silvanus, better known to us as Silas
He was a Jewish convert who was also a Roman citizen.
He was referred to seven times in Acts, 3 epistles of Paul and one from Peter
He was a man used by God to help support Paul and spread the gospel to the world.
Acts 15:22
This is the introduction of Silas, already a leader in the Jerusalem church.
He was sent to Antioch to confirm the decision of the Jerusalem council
His partner was Barsabas, the brother of the possible replacement disciple in Acts
Acts 15:32
Silas is shown to be a preacher of the word of God, and helped people not only to know the Lord but follow the Lord
Acts 15:34
The church at Antioch had young converts on fire for the Lord. Even when his partner left to go home, he felt a need to stay and help this young church anyway he could.
Acts 15:40
After the disagreement with Barnabas, Silas had a good testimony that Paul thought him a good partner for the ministry. He made himself available
Acts 16:19
Paul was now traveling with a missionary team, however Silas was so much in the forefront helping Paul, that he was arrested with Paul
Acts 16:25
Even in pain, he and Paul sang praises at midnight, so loud the other prisoners heard them
Acts 17:14-15
Silas stayed behind in Berea while Paul escaped, still willing to face danger for the gospel’s sake.
He continued to travel with Paul. Later on, he met up and assisted Peter.
Conclusion and Application
This is a man who maintained a good testimony and made himself available to be used of God for the gospel’s sake, even though it was dangerous and inconvenient