Acts 13 - 14

Saul Becomes Paul

In today's reading Saul firmly establishes himself as a leader in the Christian church, travelling throughout Asia preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ. In 13:2, the Lord directs the Apostles to "Dedicate Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them."  Immediately after that, we read that Holy Spirit sends them to Cyprus on their first journey (v. 4). In verse 9, Saul is named Paul and hereafter in Luke and his Epistles and the Epistles of the other writers, he is called Paul.

In 13:7-12, Paul and Barnabas preach and teach to the governor of Paphos who was under the influence of a sorcerer, Elymas. Their message is so powerful, Elymas attempts to persuade the governor away from Paul and Barnabas. Paul, though, is filled with the Holy Spirit and has the power of God.  Elymas is cursed with blindness and the governor becomes a believer.  This sets a pattern that is repeated in the Bible and throughout history all the way to today. For some, the Gospel causes blindness-spiritual blindness.  Men's hearts are hardened against anything good and righteous. However for others, the Gospel brings new life. The heart of the believer is tender towards the things of God and they fully accept His Truth and live in the Light of Gods Word.

Paul and Barnabas travel to Antioch of Pisidia where Paul delivers his first major sermon in the Bible.  The power of the Word is confirmed and many believe, both Jews and Gentiles. The Jews are disturbed by Paul's influence and rile the people up against Paul.  In 13:46 we read that Paul then turns his message to the Gentiles.

In chapter 14, they travel to Iconium and repeat their message. Verse 3 states, "But the apostles stayed there a long time, preaching boldly about the grace of the Lord. And the Lord proved their message was true by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders (emphasis mine). If we preach His Word and declare His Truth, then the Lord will prove our message with signs and wonders.

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.