Acts 13
-During prayer and fasting and ministering to the Lord,
Barnabas and Saul were set apart by the Holy Spirit to go on their first major
missionary journey to the island of Cyprus and Asia Minor. The narrative
describes the miraculous encounters in these places and the unique experiences
of bringing the gospel of Christ to Gentile regions. However, notice the
strategy that is used in these missionary endeavors. They would always start
with the established synagogue in a new city. This was to tie in the known with
the unknown and show how Christ Jesus was a fulfillment of Old Testament truth
given by God to His people (Remember Romans 1:16). They needed a reference
point from which to share the good news of the crucifixion, the burial, and the
resurrection of the Savior of the world. Also, notice that they went to the
population centers where there could be a larger audience for their
presentations. The idea was to proliferate the message outward towards the
rural communities from the epicenters of the larger cities in each region.
These proved to be effective methods as they were led by the Lord’s Holy
Spirit. *Application* What strategy do you have for winning the lost to Christ
Jesus? Seek the Spirit’s guidance and be intentional about evangelizing your
world with the good news!
-An interesting tidbit of information is given in verse 13,
which would later create tension and controversy between Paul (Saul) and
Barnabas (Acts 15:36-40). In fact they would separate as missionary partners
over the decision of John Mark to return back to Jerusalem. This was certainly
not a move that Paul endorsed for whatever reason. But, Barnabas as was his
nature was patient, compassionate, and encouraging of the young and growing
brother in Christ. Later, Paul reconciled and approved of the help that John
Mark was to the Kingdom work (2 Timothy 4:11). *Application* Let us not be too
quick to dismiss and cast away people that make mistakes. John Mark
demonstrated immaturity, possibly through fear, fatigue, and failure by his
quick return from a missionary adventure. Perhaps he got homesick or the
persecution and hardship was too much for him to handle. We are really not
sure, but we do know that later Barnabas stuck with this young lad and helped
to restore him in the Lord. We should have the same compassion on those who
fail us.
-The scene in Pisidian Antioch becomes a familiar response
to the gospel as it goes forth into these untapped regions. There is first
curiosity and intrigue as the message of Christ is preached. Then comes a Jewish
response of jealousy and accusations of this being a false message. This
usually ends up in a disturbance of some sort with some believing and receiving
the message, but others adamantly against the word of the apostles. The
Gentiles are awakened to God’s truth and rejoice, but the Jews drive out the
apostles trying to thwart their message. The apostles shake the dust off their
feet in protest against the rejection of the gospel and go on joyfully with the
Holy Spirit to the next city and adventure. *Application* In your strategy to
share the message of Christ you will find diverse responses as well. Be
sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guiding and leading when you share your faith.
Remember that to some you will be an offense, but to others the fragrant aroma
of a saving Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14-17).
Verses to Memorize:
Acts 13:2, 38-39
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