What does Acts 11:27 mean?

The preceding section tells the origin and growth of the vibrant church in Syrian Antioch. There were several Antiochs in the ancient Roman Empire. This one is on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean, so far north it's now in modern-day Turkey. Jesus-followers from Cyprus and Cyrene, fleeing persecution in Jerusalem, had come to Antioch and spread the gospel to Jews and Gentiles. When the apostles found out, they sent Barnabas to determine if the message was accurate and if the Gentiles were really following Christ. Barnabas found such a thriving ministry he sent for Saul in Tarsus to come help. The church grew even more, and the believers took on the title "Christian" for the first time (Acts 11:19–26).

Syrian Antioch, at the time of these events, is also home to a great number of devout Jews, and the roads to Jerusalem are well-traveled. It would be no strange thing for Jesus-following prophets to travel the 300 miles north and visit the new church. Prophecy at that time was an important gift. The only New Testament books written this early in church history are perhaps James and the gospel of Mark. In the beginning years of the church, the Holy Spirit moves mightily to give insight and truth to church leaders, and many have the gift of prophecy (1 Corinthians 12:28). We may still feel the Spirit's leading today, perhaps to support a church in need, but with the completion of the Bible the gift of prophecy is no longer needed (1 Corinthians 13:8).