Acts 13:5

When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. And John was with them as their helper.

Study Bible

When they arrived at Salamis
The phrase "when they arrived" indicates a purposeful journey, emphasizing the missionary zeal of Paul and Barnabas. Salamis, located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, was a significant city in the ancient world, known for its strategic location and bustling trade. The choice of Salamis as a starting point for their mission underscores the importance of reaching influential urban centers with the Gospel. Historically, Cyprus had a substantial Jewish population, making it a strategic location for the early Christian mission.

they proclaimed the word of God
The act of proclaiming "the word of God" highlights the central mission of the apostles: to spread the Gospel message. The Greek term for "proclaimed" (κηρύσσω, kēryssō) conveys the idea of a herald announcing important news. This proclamation was not merely a casual conversation but a bold declaration of the transformative message of Jesus Christ. The "word of God" refers to the teachings and life of Jesus, as well as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, which the apostles were eager to share with both Jews and Gentiles.

in the Jewish synagogues
The synagogue was the heart of Jewish religious life, serving as a place of worship, teaching, and community gathering. By choosing to begin their ministry in the synagogues, Paul and Barnabas were following a strategic approach to reach the Jewish community first, in line with the principle of "to the Jew first" (Romans 1:16). This approach also provided a platform to engage with those who were already familiar with the Scriptures, allowing the apostles to demonstrate how Jesus fulfilled the Messianic prophecies.

And John was with them as their helper
John, also known as John Mark, was a relative of Barnabas and an early companion in the missionary work. The term "helper" (ὑπηρέτης, hypēretēs) suggests a role of service and support, indicating that John Mark was there to assist in the practical and logistical aspects of the mission. His presence underscores the importance of teamwork and collaboration in ministry. Although John Mark's journey with Paul and Barnabas would later encounter challenges, his initial involvement highlights the communal nature of the early Christian mission and the diverse roles within it.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Salamis
A city on the eastern coast of Cyprus, significant as the first location where Paul and Barnabas preached during their missionary journey. It was a major city with a substantial Jewish population, which is why they began their ministry in the synagogues there.

2. Paul and Barnabas
Key figures in the early Christian church, sent out by the Holy Spirit from the church in Antioch to spread the Gospel. Their mission marks the beginning of Paul's first missionary journey.

3. John (Mark)
Also known as John Mark, he accompanied Paul and Barnabas as a helper. He is traditionally believed to be the author of the Gospel of Mark and is a relative of Barnabas.

4. Jewish Synagogues
The initial focus of Paul and Barnabas's ministry in each city they visited. Synagogues were central to Jewish community life and served as a strategic starting point for spreading the Gospel to both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles.

5. Proclamation of the Word of God
The central activity of Paul and Barnabas's mission, emphasizing the importance of preaching and teaching as foundational to the spread of Christianity.

Teaching Points

Strategic Evangelism
Paul and Barnabas's approach to begin their ministry in synagogues teaches us the importance of starting where people are already gathered and open to spiritual discussions.

Teamwork in Ministry
The inclusion of John Mark as a helper highlights the value of teamwork and the support roles that are crucial in ministry efforts.

Cultural Sensitivity
By starting in the synagogues, Paul and Barnabas show respect for Jewish customs and traditions, which can be a model for engaging with different cultures today.

Faithful Proclamation
The focus on proclaiming the Word of God underscores the centrality of Scripture in evangelism and discipleship.

Perseverance in Mission
Despite challenges, Paul and Barnabas's commitment to their mission encourages believers to remain steadfast in their calling.

Bible Study Questions

1. Why do you think Paul and Barnabas chose to start their ministry in the synagogues, and how can this strategy be applied in modern evangelism?

2. What role did John Mark play in this missionary journey, and what does this teach us about the importance of support roles in ministry?

3. How does the setting of Salamis as a diverse and strategic location inform our understanding of where and how to share the Gospel today?

4. In what ways can we ensure that the proclamation of the Word of God remains central in our personal and communal faith practices?

5. How can the example of Paul and Barnabas's perseverance in their mission encourage us in facing challenges in our own spiritual journeys?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9:20
This verse highlights Paul's immediate proclamation of Jesus in the synagogues after his conversion, showing a consistent pattern in his ministry approach.

Mark 1:1
Connects to John Mark, who is believed to have written the Gospel of Mark, emphasizing his role in the early church and his later contributions to the New Testament.

Romans 1:16
Paul’s declaration that the Gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Gentile, reflecting his strategy of starting in the synagogues.