Who was Niger?

Niger is mentioned briefly in the New Testament in Acts 13:1 as one of the prophets and teachers in the church at Antioch. His full designation is Simeon called Niger. Though little is recorded about him, his inclusion among key leaders in the early church provides rich insight into the diversity, unity, and spiritual power of the early Christian community.

The name Niger is Latin in origin, meaning “black” or “dark.” It was likely a nickname or descriptor used in the Greco-Roman world, possibly referring to his complexion or African heritage. Simeon (Greek: Συμεών, Symeōn) is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Shimon (שִׁמְעוֹן), meaning “heard” or “God has heard.” This dual name suggests a Jewish background, possibly with ties to the African continent or African descent.

Biblical References

• Acts 13:1 – “Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul.”

Cross-References

• Acts 11:20-26 – The context of the church at Antioch and the presence of Hellenistic Jews and Gentiles.

• Romans 12:6-8 – Teaching on the variety of spiritual gifts in the body of Christ, including prophecy and teaching.

• Galatians 3:28 – The unity of believers regardless of ethnicity or background.

What Happened in the Bible?

In Acts 13, the church at Antioch is described as having several prophets and teachers, including Simeon called Niger. The Holy Spirit speaks to this diverse group of leaders during a time of worship and fasting, setting apart Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for missionary work. Although Niger is not mentioned again, his presence during this pivotal moment shows that he was a respected leader and part of a spiritually vibrant church that listened to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

The church at Antioch was a key center of early Christianity, especially in sending out missionaries. The leadership team included men from varied backgrounds: Barnabas from Cyprus, Lucius from Cyrene in North Africa, Manaen with royal connections, and Saul the former Pharisee. Simeon called Niger was part of this team, showing the ethnic and social inclusiveness of the early church.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Niger’s brief appearance highlights a powerful truth for the modern church: God uses people of every background in leadership and mission. In a time when ethnic divisions often tore communities apart, the early church modeled unity in Christ. Simeon, possibly an African or a person of dark skin, served alongside other leaders without distinction. The church recognized spiritual maturity and gifting, not race, status, or background, as qualifications for leadership.

His name also reminds believers that God hears and sees the marginalized, and that Christian ministry is enriched by the diversity of its members. Simeon called Niger encourages the global church to embrace the fullness of the body of Christ in love, humility, and service.

How His Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Simeon’s story points to the gospel’s expansion beyond Israel. The commission of Saul and Barnabas in Acts 13 begins the major missionary journeys that take the gospel to the Gentile world. Niger, as one of the leaders laying hands on these missionaries, participates in the fulfillment of Acts 1:8 – that the gospel would go from Jerusalem to Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth.

His presence shows how Jesus Christ broke down dividing walls (Ephesians 2:14-16), creating one new people in Himself. Simeon’s role in the church at Antioch exemplifies what the gospel does: it reconciles Jew and Gentile, rich and poor, black and white, into one Spirit-filled body for the glory of God.

Broader Biblical Themes

Unity in Diversity

Simeon’s inclusion in Acts 13 reveals the New Testament emphasis on the unity of the church in the midst of diversity. As the early church grew beyond Jerusalem, believers of different backgrounds came together through a common faith in Jesus.

The Priesthood of All Believers

Niger’s identification as a prophet or teacher shows the New Testament pattern that spiritual gifts are not confined by ethnicity or social status. Anyone filled with the Spirit and called by God can minister effectively.

God’s Sovereign Mission

Niger was part of a church that responded to God’s voice and sent out missionaries. This reflects God’s sovereign plan to bring salvation to the nations through the witness of His people.

Reflection Questions

1. What does Simeon called Niger’s role in Acts 13 teach us about racial and cultural diversity in the church?

2. How does the church at Antioch serve as a model for Spirit-led ministry today?

3. In what ways can you contribute to your local church’s mission, regardless of your background?

4. How can you promote unity in the body of Christ across cultural or ethnic boundaries?

5. Do you recognize and encourage diverse gifts and callings within your church community?

Simeon called Niger reminds the church that God‘s call to leadership, mission, and ministry reaches across every line that humans draw—because in Christ, we are one.