To seek Saul, who had retired for a while, to his native city, Tarsus. These two remained at Antioch about a year, during which time they reaped a plentiful harvest.
He came to the athletic wrestler, the general (fit to lead armies), the champion of single combat, the lion— I am at a loss for words, say what I will— the hunting-dog, killer of lions, bull of strength, lamp of brightness, mouth sufficing for a world. And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch.
But why did he take him off from Tarsus and bring him here? Not without good reason; for here were both good hopes, and a greater city, and a great body of people. See how grace works all, not Paul: by small means the affair was taking its commencement. When it has become difficult the Apostles take it up. Why did they not before this seen Barnabas? Because they had enough to do (ἠ σχόληντο) with Jerusalem. Again they justified themselves to the Jews, that the Gentiles were receiving (προσελάμβανε) the word, even without enjoying so great attention. There is about to be a questioning: therefore the affair of Cornelius forestalled it. Then indeed they say, That we to the Gentiles, and they to the Circumcision. Galatians 2:9 Observe, henceforth the very stress of the famine introduces the fellowship on the part of the Gentiles, namely, from the alms. For they receive the offerings sent from them.
Now they which were scattered abroad, etc.
