The previous passage of scripture we studied, was the apostle Paul’s first recorded sermon. This sermon is a summary of what was probably a much longer message. The main idea of the sermon was God’s promise to send a Saviour and His fulfilment of that promise in sending Jesus demands a response.

In our passage today, we are going to notice several different responses to Paul’s sermon. These responses still hold true today. Out text reveals these responses:

1. The Inquisitive (13:42-43)
2. The Trouble-Makers (13:44 – 14:2)
3. The Brave & the Bold (14:3-7)

Paul and Barnabus didn’t let opposition or even the threat of death stop them from proclaiming Jesus as the light of the world. When the Jews rejected the gospel, Paul and Barnabas didn’t quit and go home. Rather, they turned to the Gentiles, in obedience to God (“commanded,” 13:47). 

This is not just the task of the apostles or of those in “full time” Christian work. Luke tells us in 13:49 that, “the word of the Lord was being spread through the whole region”. Paul and Barnabas could not have done this by themselves. The only way it happened was that those who had received God’s grace in Christ went around telling others. Those who were amazed at God’s amazing grace went around telling others! Those who understood God’s mercy towards them went around telling others despite the opposition that was building up!

Our response to opposition and persecution must be determined by our love for God, not our fear of man! However unbelievers choose to respond to the gospel, we need to keep our focus on Jesus, and faithfully and boldly proclaim the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is the gospel necessarily offensive? What part is offensive?
2. Why is it important to affirm the doctrine of election? Why not just skip it, since it’s so controversial?
3. Why is the doctrine of election important as a foundation for the work of evangelism?
4. Can a person get saved without hearing the gospel? Defend your answer from Scripture.