◄ Acts 13 ►
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Paul’s First Missionary Journey Begins (Acts 15:36–41; Acts 18:23–28) 1Now 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. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3And after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off. On Cyprus 4So Barnabas and Saul, sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. 5When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. And John was with them as their helper. 6They traveled through the whole island as far as Paphos, where they found a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, 7an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, a man of intelligence, summoned Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God. 8But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith. 9Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked directly at Elymas 10and said, “O child of the devil and enemy of all righteousness, you are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery! Will you never stop perverting the straight ways of the Lord? 11Now look, the hand of the Lord is against you, and for a time you will be blind and unable to see the light of the sun.” Immediately mist and darkness came over him, and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand. 12When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord. In Pisidian Antioch 13After setting sail from Paphos, Paul and his companions came to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem. 14And from Perga, they traveled inland to Pisidian Antioch, where they entered the synagogue on the Sabbath and sat down. 15After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the synagogue leaders sent word to them: “Brothers, if you have a word of encouragement for the people, please speak.” 16Paul stood up, motioned with his hand, and began to speak: “Men of Israel and you Gentiles who fear God, listen to me! 17The God of the people of Israel chose our fathers. He made them into a great people during their stay in Egypt, and with an uplifted arm He led them out of that land. 18He endured their conduct for about forty years in the wilderness. 19And having vanquished seven nations in Canaan, He gave their land to His people as an inheritance. 20All this took about 450 years. After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet. 21Then the people asked for a king, and God gave them Saul son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years. 22After removing Saul, He raised up David as their king and testified about him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse a man after My own heart; he will carry out My will in its entirety.’a 23From the descendants of this man, God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as He promised. 24Before the arrival of Jesus, John preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. 25As John was completing his course, he said, ‘Who do you suppose I am? I am not that One. But there is One coming after me whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.’b 26Brothers, children of Abraham, and you Gentiles who fear God, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent. 27The people of Jerusalem and their rulers did not recognize Jesus, yet in condemning Him they fulfilled the words of the prophets that are read every Sabbath. 28And though they found no ground for a death sentence, they asked Pilate to have Him executed. 29When they had carried out all that was written about Him, they took Him down from the tree and laid Him in a tomb. 30But God raised Him from the dead, 31and for many days He was seen by those who had accompanied Him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now His witnesses to our people. 32And now we proclaim to you the good news: What God promised our fathers 33He has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm: ‘You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.’c 34In fact, God raised Him from the dead, never to see decay. As He has said: ‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’d 35So also, He says in another Psalm: ‘You will not let Your Holy One see decay.’e 36For when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep. His body was buried with his fathers and saw decay. 37But the One whom God raised from the dead did not see decay. 38Therefore let it be known to you, brothers, that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. 39Through Him everyone who believes is justified from everything from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses. 40Watch out, then, that what was spoken by the prophets does not happen to you: 41‘Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish! For I am doing a work in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.’f” A Light for the Gentiles (Isaiah 49:1–6) 42As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people urged them to continue this message on the next Sabbath. 43After the synagogue was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who spoke to them and urged them to continue in the grace of God. 44On the following Sabbath, nearly the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy, and they blasphemously contradicted what Paul was saying. 46Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “It was necessary to speak the word of God to you first. But since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. 47For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’g” 48When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the word of the Lord, and all who were appointed for eternal life believed. 49And the word of the Lord spread throughout that region. 50The Jews, however, incited the religious women of prominence and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and drove them out of their district. 51So they shook the dust off their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium. 52And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. Footnotes: 22 a See 1 Samuel 13:14. 25 b Luke 3:16; see also Matthew 3:11, Mark 1:7, and John 1:27. 33 c Psalm 2:7; literally today I have begotten You 34 d Literally I will give you the holy, the trustworthy of David; Isaiah 55:3 35 e Psalm 16:10 41 f Habakkuk 1:5 (see also LXX) 47 g Isaiah 49:6 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 13 Summary A Light for the Gentiles Verses 1–3 – Antioch Sends Missionaries In the bustling, multi-ethnic church at Antioch the Holy Spirit singles out Barnabas and Saul during a season of worship and fasting. After further prayer and the laying on of hands, the church releases them for the work to which God has called them. Verses 4–12 – Power Encounter on Cyprus Sailing to Cyprus, Barnabas and Saul preach in the synagogues at Salamis, then cross the island to Paphos. There they confront Elymas the sorcerer, who tries to turn the proconsul Sergius Paulus from the faith. Saul—now called Paul—pronounces blindness on Elymas, and the astonished governor believes. Verses 13–16 – Arrival in Pisidian Antioch John Mark departs for Jerusalem, while Paul and his companions travel to Perga in Pamphylia and on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath, they sit in the synagogue until the rulers invite Paul to speak. Verses 17–25 – Israel’s account Retold Paul summarizes God’s faithful acts: choosing the fathers, leading the people out of Egypt, sustaining them in the wilderness, giving them Canaan, raising up judges, providing Saul, and then David, from whose line the Savior Jesus came. Verses 26–31 – The Gospel Declared Paul proclaims that Jesus was rejected, executed, laid in a tomb, yet raised from the dead. Many witnesses now testify to this lifesaving truth. Verses 32–41 – Promise and Warning Citing Psalm 2, Isaiah 55, and Psalm 16, Paul shows that Jesus fulfills Scripture. Forgiveness and freedom are offered, but a Habakkuk warning stands for those who scoff. Verses 42–47 – Growing Interest, Rising Opposition The people beg for more. The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathers. Jealous Jews oppose the message, so Paul and Barnabas announce they will turn to the Gentiles, quoting Isaiah 49 to justify the pivot. Verses 48–52 – Joyful Gentiles, Expelled Apostles Gentiles rejoice and believe, “and the word of the Lord spread through that region.” Jewish leaders stir up persecution, driving the missionaries out. Shaking the dust from their feet, Paul and Barnabas leave for Iconium, while the new disciples remain “filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 13 marks the beginning of Paul's first missionary journey with Barnabas, as they are commissioned by the Holy Spirit and the Antioch church. This chapter chronicles their efforts to spread the Gospel in Cyprus and Pisidia, their encounters with opposition, and their unwavering commitment to share the message of Christ. Historical Setting: Antioch—A Launchpad for Mission • Antioch of Syria was the Roman Empire’s third-largest city, a trade and cultural crossroads (Acts 11:19-26). Its mixed population explains the diverse leadership list—Barnabas (Cyprus), Simeon Niger (likely African), Lucius of Cyrene (North Africa), Manaen (connected to Herod Antipas), and Saul (Tarsus). • The prophets and teachers serve together, reflecting Ephesians 4:11 and Romans 12:6-7. • Fasting and prayer underscore dependence on the Spirit (Matthew 6:16-18; Acts 14:23). The Holy Spirit’s Call and Human Obedience “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul” (Acts 13:2). The Spirit initiates; the church discerns, confirms, and sends. This pattern echoes Numbers 8:10-11 (laying on of hands), and 1 Timothy 4:14 shows it continued. Barnabas and Saul: Complementary Gifts • Barnabas, “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36), had introduced Saul to the Jerusalem church (9:27). • Paul’s teaching gift shines here (13:16-41). • Their team approach models Ecclesiastes 4:9-12—two are better than one. Cyprus: Archaeology and Geography • Salamis inscriptions reveal a sizable Jewish community and several synagogues. • Paphos was the seat of Roman administration; excavations have uncovered the proconsul’s quarters and mosaics depicting Acts 13’s story. • Sergius Paulus is confirmed by a first-century inscription at Soli, Cyprus, naming him “Lucius Sergius Paullus, proconsul.” Elymas the Sorcerer and Biblical Warnings About Magic The Old Testament forbids sorcery (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Paul’s judgment on Elymas (“You will be blind” – 13:11) recalls Exodus 8:18-19 where Egyptian magicians fail, and 2 Kings 6:18 where Elisha blinds enemies. Name Change: Saul to Paul From this point Luke consistently uses “Paul” (13:9). In Roman territory he employs his Greco-Roman name, aiding outreach to Gentiles (1 Corinthians 9:20-22). John Mark’s Departure Mark’s return to Jerusalem (13:13) later causes tension (15:36-40). Yet he is eventually restored (2 Timothy 4:11). This episode reminds believers that failures are not final. Strategy: First to the Synagogue, Then to the Street Paul enters synagogues first (13:5, 14; 14:1; 17:1-2) because: 1. Jews already know Scripture, providing common ground (Romans 1:16). 2. God-fearers present are receptive Gentiles. 3. Rejection by some Jews fulfills Isaiah 6:9-10; turning to Gentiles fulfills Isaiah 42:6. Paul’s Sermon Outline (Acts 13:16-41) 1. God’s past grace to Israel (17-22). 2. Jesus the promised Savior (23). 3. Jesus’ death and resurrection (27-31). 4. Scriptural proof texts (32-37). 5. Offer of forgiveness and warning (38-41). The structure parallels Peter’s sermons (Acts 2, 3) but extends explicitly to Gentiles. Old Testament Links Used in the Sermon • Psalm 2:7—Jesus declared Son of God (see Hebrews 1:5). • Isaiah 55:3—“sure mercies of David,” echoed in Revelation 22:16. • Psalm 16:10—resurrection promise, cited also in Acts 2:27. • Habakkuk 1:5—warning of unbelief, similarly applied in Romans 1:18-20. Resurrection Witnesses Jesus “appeared to those who had come up with Him from Galilee” (13:31). Compare 1 Corinthians 15:5-8. Eyewitness testimony anchors faith in fact, not myth (Luke 1:1-4). “Light for the Gentiles” (Isaiah 49:6) Realized Paul and Barnabas quote Isaiah to justify turning to Gentiles (13:47). Later Paul repeats this mission in Romans 15:8-12. The global scope echoes Genesis 12:3. Shaking Off the Dust A symbolic act (13:51) echoing Jesus’ instruction in Luke 9:5. It signals that responsibility now rests on rejecters (Ezekiel 33:4). Joy and the Spirit Despite persecution, new believers are “filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” (13:52), fulfilling Romans 14:17 and foreshadowing Acts 16:25. Practical Takeaways • Seek the Spirit’s direction through worship, fasting, and prayer. • Team ministry combines varied gifts for greater impact. • God’s word confronts opposition with truth and power. • Present the gospel by connecting God’s past faithfulness, Jesus’ finished work, Scriptural evidence, and a clear call to respond. • Rejection is expected; perseverance keeps the mission moving. • Joy in the Spirit is not tied to circumstances but to the advance of the gospel (Philippians 1:18). Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 28:19-20 The Great Commission, which aligns with the missionary work initiated in Acts 13. Romans 10:14-15 The necessity of preaching the gospel to those who have not heard, echoing the mission to the Gentiles. Ephesians 6:12 A reminder of the spiritual warfare involved in spreading the gospel, as seen in the encounter with Elymas. Teaching Points The Role of the Holy Spirit Acts 13:2-4 emphasizes the Holy Spirit's guidance in the church's mission. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' The Holy Spirit is the initiator and director of missions. The Importance of Fasting and Prayer The church in Antioch was engaged in fasting and prayer when the Holy Spirit spoke (Acts 13:2-3). This underscores the importance of spiritual disciplines in discerning God's will. Opposition to the Gospel Paul and Barnabas faced opposition from Elymas the sorcerer (Acts 13:8-11). This reminds us that spiritual warfare is a reality in the mission field, but God's power is greater. Preaching to the Gentiles Acts 13:46-47 marks a significant shift as Paul and Barnabas declare, We now turn to the Gentiles. This fulfills the prophecy that salvation would reach the ends of the earth. The Response to the Gospel The chapter concludes with mixed reactions to the gospel message—some believed, while others rejected it (Acts 13:48-52). This highlights the varied responses we can expect when sharing the gospel. Practical Applications Seek the Holy Spirit's Guidance Regularly engage in prayer and fasting to seek the Holy Spirit's direction in your life and ministry. Prepare for Opposition Be aware that sharing the gospel may invite opposition, but trust in God's power to overcome obstacles. Embrace God's Global Mission Be open to God's call to reach out beyond your immediate community, just as Paul and Barnabas did. Persevere in Evangelism Understand that not everyone will accept the gospel, but continue to share it faithfully. People 1. Barnabas Described as a prophet and teacher in the church at Antioch. Barnabas, whose name means "son of encouragement" (Acts 4:36), is a key figure in the early church, known for his role in supporting and mentoring Paul. 2. Simeon called Niger Another prophet and teacher in the church at Antioch. The name "Niger" suggests he may have been of African descent, as "Niger" means "black" in Latin. 3. Lucius of Cyrene Also a prophet and teacher in the Antioch church. Cyrene was a city in North Africa, indicating Lucius may have been from that region. 4. Manaen Described as "brought up with Herod the tetrarch" (Acts 13:1). This indicates he had a privileged upbringing, possibly in the court of Herod Antipas, and later became a leader in the church. 5. Saul (Paul) Initially mentioned as one of the prophets and teachers in Antioch. Saul, later known as Paul, becomes a central figure in the spread of Christianity and the author of many New Testament letters. 6. John (also called Mark) Accompanies Barnabas and Saul as their assistant on their missionary journey (Acts 13:5). He is traditionally understood to be the author of the Gospel of Mark. 7. Sergius Paulus The proconsul of Cyprus, described as an intelligent man who seeks to hear the word of God from Barnabas and Saul (Acts 13:7). 8. Elymas the sorcerer (Bar-Jesus) A Jewish false prophet and sorcerer who opposes Barnabas and Saul, attempting to turn Sergius Paulus away from the faith (Acts 13:8). Places 1. Antioch (in Syria) Acts 13:1: "Now in the church at Antioch..." Antioch was a major city in ancient Syria and an early center of Christianity. It served as the starting point for Paul and Barnabas's missionary journey. The Greek name for Antioch is Ἀντιόχεια (Antiocheia). 2. Seleucia Acts 13:4: "So Barnabas and Saul, sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia..." Seleucia was the port city of Antioch, located on the Mediterranean coast. It was the departure point for Paul and Barnabas as they set sail for Cyprus. The Greek name is Σελεύκεια (Seleukeia). 3. Cyprus Acts 13:4: "...and sailed from there to Cyprus." Cyprus is an island in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It was the first destination of Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey. The Greek name is Κύπρος (Kypros). 4. Salamis Acts 13:5: "Arriving in Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues." Salamis was a city on the eastern coast of Cyprus. It was known for its large Jewish community. The Greek name is Σαλαμίς (Salamis). 5. Paphos Acts 13:6: "They traveled through the whole island as far as Paphos..." Paphos was a city on the western coast of Cyprus, known for its worship of the goddess Aphrodite. It was here that Paul encountered the magician Elymas. The Greek name is Πάφος (Paphos). 6. Perga (in Pamphylia) Acts 13:13: "From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia..." Perga was a city in the region of Pamphylia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). It was an important stop on Paul's journey. The Greek name is Πέργη (Perge). 7. Antioch (in Pisidia) Acts 13:14: "On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down." This Antioch was a different city from the one in Syria, located in the region of Pisidia in Asia Minor. It was a significant Roman colony. The Greek name is Ἀντιόχεια τῆς Πισιδίας (Antiocheia tēs Pisidias). 8. Iconium Acts 13:51: "So they shook the dust off their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium." Iconium was a city in the region of Lycaonia in Asia Minor. It was another key location in Paul's missionary work. The Greek name is Ἰκόνιον (Ikonion). Events 1. Commissioning of Barnabas and Saul In the church at Antioch, prophets and teachers, including Barnabas and Saul, were worshiping and fasting. The Holy Spirit instructed them to set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work to which He had called them. After fasting and praying, they laid hands on them and sent them off (Acts 13:1-3). 2. Preaching in Cyprus Barnabas and Saul, accompanied by John Mark, traveled to Cyprus. They proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews, starting in Salamis (Acts 13:4-5). 3. Encounter with Bar-Jesus (Elymas) the Sorcerer In Paphos, they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, also known as Elymas. He opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, away from the faith. Saul, also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, rebuked Elymas, causing him to become temporarily blind. Witnessing this, the proconsul believed, being amazed at the teaching about the Lord (Acts 13:6-12). 4. Paul’s Sermon in Pisidian Antioch Paul and his companions traveled to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath, they entered the synagogue, and Paul was invited to speak. He delivered a sermon recounting Israel's history, emphasizing Jesus as the promised Savior, and proclaiming the forgiveness of sins through Him (Acts 13:13-41). 5. Response to Paul’s Message The message was well received, and many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas. The next Sabbath, almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. However, the Jews, filled with jealousy, contradicted Paul and blasphemed (Acts 13:42-45). 6. Turning to the Gentiles Paul and Barnabas boldly declared that since the Jews rejected the word of God, they would turn to the Gentiles, fulfilling the Lord’s command to be a light to the Gentiles. Many Gentiles rejoiced and believed, and the word of the Lord spread throughout the region (Acts 13:46-49). 7. Persecution and Expulsion The Jews incited prominent women and leading men of the city to persecute Paul and Barnabas, eventually expelling them from the region. Paul and Barnabas shook the dust off their feet as a testimony against them and went to Iconium. Despite the opposition, the disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:50-52). Lessons from Acts 13 1. The Power of the Holy Spirit in Mission In Acts 13, we see the Holy Spirit as the driving force behind the early church's mission. The chapter begins with the Holy Spirit instructing the church in Antioch to set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work He has called them to. This reminds us that our efforts are most fruitful when guided by the Spirit. As it says in Acts 13:2, "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'" Let this be a reminder to seek the Spirit's guidance in all our endeavors. 2. The Importance of Fasting and Prayer The early church leaders were engaged in fasting and prayer when they received the Holy Spirit's direction. This underscores the importance of these spiritual disciplines in discerning God's will. Acts 13:3 tells us, "So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off." Fasting and prayer are powerful tools for aligning our hearts with God's purposes. 3. Boldness in Proclaiming the Gospel Paul and Barnabas demonstrate remarkable boldness in proclaiming the gospel, even in the face of opposition. When they encounter resistance from Elymas the sorcerer, Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, confronts him directly. Acts 13:10 records Paul's words: "You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right!" This boldness is a testament to the power of the gospel and the courage it inspires in believers. 4. The Role of Opposition in Strengthening Faith Opposition is not a setback but an opportunity for growth. When Paul and Barnabas face resistance, they do not retreat but press on with greater determination. Acts 13:50-51 shows their resilience: "But the Jews incited the devout women of prominence and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and expelled them from their region. So they shook the dust off their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium." Opposition can refine our faith and strengthen our resolve. 5. The Inclusivity of the Gospel Message The gospel is for everyone, Jew and Gentile alike. Paul and Barnabas make this clear when they turn to the Gentiles after facing rejection from the Jewish leaders. Acts 13:47 declares, "For this is what the Lord has commanded us: 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'" The message of salvation through Christ is universal and inclusive. 6. The Joy of Salvation The response of the Gentiles to the gospel is one of joy and celebration. Acts 13:48 captures this beautifully: "When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the word of the Lord, and all who were appointed for eternal life believed." The joy of salvation is a powerful motivator for sharing the gospel with others. 7. The Sovereignty of God in Salvation Acts 13 emphasizes God's sovereignty in the process of salvation. The phrase "all who were appointed for eternal life believed" in Acts 13:48 highlights that God is in control of who comes to faith. This assurance allows us to trust in His perfect plan and timing as we share the gospel. 8. The Necessity of Perseverance Paul and Barnabas's journey is marked by perseverance despite challenges. They continue to preach the gospel and establish churches, demonstrating the importance of steadfastness in ministry. Acts 13:52 notes, "And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit." Perseverance in faith leads to spiritual fulfillment and joy. 9. The Impact of a Faithful Witness The faithful witness of Paul and Barnabas leaves a lasting impact on the regions they visit. Their commitment to the gospel inspires others to believe and follow Christ. Acts 13:49 states, "And the word of the Lord spread through the whole region." Our faithful witness can have a ripple effect, spreading the message of Christ far and wide. 10. The Joy of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit The chapter concludes with the disciples being filled with joy and the Holy Spirit, despite the challenges they faced. Acts 13:52 reminds us, "And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit." This joy is a testament to the Spirit's work in our lives, empowering us to live out our faith with enthusiasm and purpose. Let us seek to be continually filled with the Spirit, experiencing the joy that comes from walking in His ways. Topics 1. The Sending of Barnabas and Saul (Acts 13:1-3) The church at Antioch, guided by the Holy Spirit, sets apart Barnabas and Saul for the work to which God has called them. The Greek term "ἀφορίζω" (aphorizo) is used here, meaning "to set apart" or "to appoint." 2. Barnabas and Saul on Cyprus (Acts 13:4-12) Barnabas and Saul, filled with the Holy Spirit, travel to Cyprus and confront a false prophet named Bar-Jesus. Saul, also known as Paul, rebukes him, leading to the proconsul's belief. The Greek word "πληρόω" (plēroō) is used to describe being "filled" with the Holy Spirit. 3. Paul’s Sermon in Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:13-41) Paul delivers a sermon in the synagogue, recounting Israel's history and proclaiming Jesus as the promised Savior. He emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the resurrection. The Greek term "κηρύσσω" (kērussō) is used for "proclaim" or "preach." 4. Response to the Gospel (Acts 13:42-43) Many Jews and devout converts to Judaism follow Paul and Barnabas, eager to hear more about the grace of God. The Greek word "χάρις" (charis) is used for "grace." 5. Opposition from the Jews (Acts 13:44-45) The following Sabbath, almost the whole city gathers to hear the word of the Lord, but the Jews, filled with jealousy, oppose Paul and Barnabas. The Greek term "ζῆλος" (zēlos) is used for "jealousy." 6. Turning to the Gentiles (Acts 13:46-48) Paul and Barnabas declare that since the Jews reject the message, they will turn to the Gentiles, fulfilling the prophecy that salvation would reach the ends of the earth. The Greek word "ἔθνος" (ethnos) is used for "Gentiles" or "nations." 7. The Spread of the Gospel and Persecution (Acts 13:49-52) The word of the Lord spreads throughout the region, but persecution arises, leading to Paul and Barnabas being expelled. They shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against them and continue to Iconium. The Greek term "διώκω" (diōkō) is used for "persecute." Themes 1. Divine Calling and Commissioning Acts 13:2 - "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'" This theme highlights the divine calling and commissioning of individuals for specific ministry tasks. The Greek word "ἀφορίσατε" (aphorisate) means "set apart," indicating a special designation by the Holy Spirit. 2. Guidance of the Holy Spirit Acts 13:4 - "So Barnabas and Saul, sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus." The theme emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and directing the mission work. The Greek term "ἐκπεμφθέντες" (ekpemphthentes) means "sent forth," underscoring the Spirit's active involvement. 3. Proclamation of the Gospel Acts 13:5 - "When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues." This theme focuses on the central task of proclaiming the Gospel message. The Greek word "κατήγγελλον" (katēngellon) means "proclaimed," reflecting the act of announcing or declaring the good news. 4. Opposition and Spiritual Warfare Acts 13:8 - "But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith." The theme of opposition and spiritual warfare is evident as Elymas, a sorcerer, actively resists the Gospel. The Greek word "ἀνθίστατο" (anthistato) means "opposed," indicating resistance against the truth. 5. Divine Judgment and Authority Acts 13:11 - "Now look, the hand of the Lord is against you, and for a time you will be blind, unable to see the light of the sun." This theme illustrates divine judgment and authority over those who oppose God's work. The Greek phrase "ἡ χεὶρ τοῦ Κυρίου" (hē cheir tou Kyriou) means "the hand of the Lord," signifying divine intervention. 6. Fulfillment of Prophecy Acts 13:32-33 - "We proclaim to you the good news: What God promised our fathers, He has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus." The theme of prophecy fulfillment is central, as the resurrection of Jesus is presented as the fulfillment of God's promises. The Greek word "ἐπήγγελται" (epēngeltai) means "promised," linking the past promises to their fulfillment in Christ. 7. Justification by Faith Acts 13:39 - "Through Him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses." This theme underscores the doctrine of justification by faith, contrasting it with the limitations of the Mosaic Law. The Greek word "δικαιοῦται" (dikaioutai) means "is justified," highlighting the legal declaration of righteousness through faith in Christ. Prayer Points Pray for sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's leading in your life and church. Ask for boldness and perseverance in the face of opposition to the gospel. Pray for open hearts among those who hear the gospel message. Seek God's guidance in identifying and reaching out to those who have not yet heard the good news. As we reflect on Acts 13, may we be inspired to participate in God's mission with the same zeal and reliance on the Holy Spirit as the early church. Answering Tough Questions 1. Acts 13:8–12: If Elymas was instantly blinded through a supernatural act, how can this miracle be historically verified or scientifically explained? 2. Acts 13:19–20: Why does Paul’s recounting of Israel’s history (a 450-year period) seem to conflict with Old Testament timelines? 3. Acts 13:7,12: If Sergius Paulus was a real proconsul who converted, why is there scant archeological or historical evidence to confirm this event? 4. Acts 13:9: Why does Saul suddenly become “Paul” in the narrative with no recorded explanation or formal name change? 5. Acts 13:36–37: Paul claims David “saw corruption” while Jesus did not; how is this consistent with other scriptural passages about bodily decay and resurrection? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the commissioning of Barnabas and Saul teach us about the role of the Holy Spirit in ministry? 2. How does the confrontation with Elymas the sorcerer showcase the power of God and the consequences of opposing His work? 3. How does Paul's sermon in the synagogue of Pisidia reflect on his understanding of the Old Testament and its fulfillment in Christ? 4. How do we see the theme of Jewish opposition and Gentile acceptance of the Gospel unfold in this chapter? 5. How does Paul and Barnabas' response to persecution inspire us to handle opposition today? 6. What can we learn from the way Paul and Barnabas continuously delivered the message of the Gospel despite the challenges they faced? 7. How does the missionary work in this chapter broaden your understanding of spreading the Gospel? 8. How can Paul and Barnabas' determination to preach the Word of God inspire you in your faith journey? 9. How does the story of Sergius Paulus' conversion underscore the transformative power of the Gospel? 10. How does the boldness of Paul and Barnabas in the face of persecution influence your own courage to share your faith? 11. What lessons can we draw from the way Paul and Barnabas relied on the Holy Spirit throughout their missionary journey? 12. How does the departure of John Mark from the missionary team challenge us to commit wholeheartedly to God's calling? 13. What does the believers' joy in Pisidia teach us about the reception of the Gospel? 14. How can Paul's sermon help us understand the significance of the Old Testament in revealing the Gospel? 15. How does the interaction between Paul, Barnabas, and Elymas challenge you to confront falsehood? 16. In what ways does the Jews' rejection of the Gospel reflect on the hardness of human hearts? 17. How does the Gospel's acceptance among the Gentiles in Pisidia challenge the Church's outreach today? 18. How do you understand the significance of the phrase "continue in the grace of God" in your life? 19. How does the portrayal of the Gentile's joy at hearing the Gospel challenge our own reception of God's word? 20. What does Paul and Barnabas shaking the dust off their feet symbolize, and how can this action speak to us when facing rejection? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions