Acts 13—14: Paul's First Missionary Journey
PETER HAS DISAPPEARED. We do not know where he is hiding. Luke is ushering Peter from the stage while Paul steps to the forefront. Peter, the apostle to the Jews, has played his part well and prepared the way for Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles.Paul and Barnabas have completed their mission of mercy in Jerusalem on behalf of the church in Antioch (11:29) and have returned to Antioch with John Mark. In this study we will look at Paul's first missionary journey—the beginning of his master plan of evangelism.
Warming Up to God
Do you feel distant from God as you try to approach the Scriptures? Remember that God in his great mercy has come to us first and wants to meet us here. He longs to care for us, his little sheep, and capture us in his arms.
Read Acts 13—14. »
Discovering the Word
- Antioch was the second greatest metropolis of the church and the mother of Gentile Christianity. What role did the church of Antioch play in Paul's first missionary journey (13:1-3; 14:26-28)?
- Review Paul's message in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch (13:16-41). What truths of the gospel are communicated?
- How does Paul's message show sensitivity to his audience and the context?
- List the different responses to the gospel (13:7-8, 13, 42-45, 48, 52; 14:1-5) that you see throughout this passage.
- How did Paul respond to those who rejected the gospel (13:9-11, 46, 51)? to those who believed (14:9-10, 21-23)?
Applying the Word
- People today are not apt to offer sacrifices to those who bring the good news of Jesus. However, in what ways are we faced with the temptation to be "God" in another's life or to take credit for what God has done?
- How can we help one another when in the midst of such temptations?
- Consider the qualities you see in Paul and Barnabas that made them effective in their ministry. Which of these qualities do you want God to develop in you to make you more effective in communicating the gospel?
Responding in Prayer
Is there a way God wants to change you? Talk to God about it.
For Further Study
Evangelism Made Slightly Less Difficult by Nick Pollard