Bible Chapter Summary
Acts 13 Summary
Paul's Commission and First Missionary Journey
The church at Antioch includes prophets and teachers, among them Barnabas and Saul. As they minister to the Lord and fast, the Holy Ghost separates Barnabas and Saul for the work He has called them to. After fasting and prayer, the church lays hands on them and sends them forth. They sail to Cyprus and preach in synagogues. A sorcerer named Bar-jesus opposes them before the deputy Sergius Paulus, but Paul, filled with the Holy Ghost, declares the hand of the Lord is upon the sorcerer, and he is struck blind. The deputy, seeing this, believes. In Antioch of Pisidia, Paul stands and speaks the gospel, recounting Israel's history and declaring Jesus as David's descendant, the promised Saviour. Paul teaches that through Jesus forgiveness of sins is preached and justification comes to all who believe. Nearly the whole city gathers on the next sabbath, but jealous Jews oppose and blaspheme. Paul declares they will now turn to the Gentiles, as the Lord has commanded. The Gentiles are glad and believe; Jews stir up persecution and expel Paul and Barnabas from their coasts.
Key themes
Key verses
Acts 13:2
“As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.”
Acts 13:38-39
“Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:”
Acts 13:46
“Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.”
Acts 13:52
“And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.”
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