Topical Encyclopedia
Introduction:Paul's sermon in Pisidian Antioch, as recorded in
Acts 13:13-52, marks a significant moment in the early Christian mission to the Gentiles. Delivered in the synagogue of Pisidian Antioch, this sermon is a profound exposition of the gospel, rooted in Jewish history and prophecy, and it underscores the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ.
Context:Paul and his companions, including Barnabas, arrived in Pisidian Antioch during their first missionary journey. On the Sabbath, they attended the synagogue service, where Paul was invited to speak. This setting provided Paul with an opportunity to address both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles, laying the foundation for the spread of the gospel beyond Jewish communities.
Content of the Sermon:1.
Historical Overview (Acts 13:16-22): Paul begins by recounting the history of Israel, emphasizing God's sovereign actions. He highlights the deliverance from Egypt, the period of the judges, the establishment of the monarchy, and the reign of King David. This historical recounting serves to remind the audience of God's faithfulness and sets the stage for the introduction of Jesus as the promised Savior.
· "The God of the people of Israel chose our fathers. He made the people prosper during their stay in the land of Egypt; with mighty power He led them out of that country" (
Acts 13:17).
2.
Jesus as the Fulfillment of Prophecy (Acts 13:23-31): Paul declares that from David's descendants, God has brought to Israel the Savior, Jesus, as promised. He references the ministry of John the Baptist as a precursor to Jesus' coming. Paul emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy through Jesus' death and resurrection, which were foretold by the prophets.
· "From the descendants of this man, God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as He promised" (
Acts 13:23).
3.
The Resurrection (Acts 13:32-37): Central to Paul's message is the resurrection of Jesus, which he presents as the ultimate validation of Jesus' divine mission. Paul cites Psalms and other scriptures to demonstrate that the resurrection was prophesied and that Jesus' resurrection confirms His identity as the Son of God.
· "But God raised Him from the dead, and for many days He appeared to those who had accompanied Him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now His witnesses to our people" (
Acts 13:30-31).
4.
Call to Faith and Warning (Acts 13:38-41): Paul offers the message of forgiveness and justification through Jesus, which the Law of Moses could not provide. He urges his listeners to believe in Jesus to receive this salvation. Paul also warns them not to be like those who scoffed at the prophets and missed God's work.
· "Therefore let it be known to you, brothers, that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you" (
Acts 13:38).
Reaction and Impact:1.
Initial Reception (Acts 13:42-43): The sermon was met with interest, and many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, eager to hear more about this message of grace.
2.
Opposition and Turning to the Gentiles (Acts 13:44-49): The following Sabbath, almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. However, some Jews, filled with jealousy, opposed Paul and Barnabas. In response, Paul boldly declared that since the Jews rejected the message, they would turn to the Gentiles, fulfilling the Lord's command to be a light to the nations.
· "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'" (
Acts 13:47).
3.
Continued Spread of the Gospel (Acts 13:50-52): Despite persecution and being expelled from the region, Paul and Barnabas left behind a community of believers filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. The word of the Lord continued to spread throughout the region, demonstrating the unstoppable nature of the gospel.
Significance:Paul's sermon in Pisidian Antioch is a pivotal moment in the book of Acts, illustrating the transition of the gospel message from a predominantly Jewish audience to the Gentile world. It underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus Christ and highlights the inclusive nature of the gospel, offering salvation to all who believe.