Bible Commentaries
Acts 13

Verses 1-52

The first most distinctly missionary movement sprang from Antioch, and was independent of all official initiation. A company of those in Antioch sent Saul and Barnabas, and it is declared immediately afterward they were sent by the Holy Spirit. Saul and Barnabas started on this journey together.

While especially glad to work among the Gentiles, Paul ever began with the Jew and the synagogue. In Antioch in Pisidia we find him reviewing his own history, and proclaiming his evangel. He made it clear to those Jews who listened to him that the whole movement was in harmony with, and, indeed, in fulfillment of, their Scriptures.

Many Gentiles were brought to a knowledge of the truth and received the blessings of the new covenant. This stirred the enmity of the Jews, and solemnly the apostle officially turned to the Gentiles. The Jews were, as he declared, "unworthy of eternal life" because they had rejected the message; while the Gentiles were "ordained to eternal life," because they believed.

Again persecution followed. The result was that the preachers were cast out. Paul and Barnabas, therefore, shook the dust of Antioch from their feet, and went to Iconium, leaving behind them this new company of disciples filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.