The Book of Acts

 Paul Turns to the Gentiles

Acts 13:44-52 _NLT

“The following week almost the entire city turned out to hear them preach the word of the Lord. But when some of the Jews saw the crowds, they were jealous; so they slandered Paul and argued against whatever he said.”- Acts 13:44-45

            The message the Apostles were to share was to go first to the Jews. Why is that? According to Genesis 12:3, “I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.” It was God’s intention to work his plan of salvation through the Jewish nation, however, many Jews refused to recognize Jesus as the awaited Messiah. They also didn’t grasp the idea that God was offering salvation from sin to everyone in creation, both Jew and Gentile (or non-Jew). 

            The sad commentary of the event that took place in Antioch of Pisidia was that the Jews bristled at the disturbing truth that they were the ones who had rejected Jesus as Messiah. They were challenged in their beliefs, and it caused the Jews to revolt in anger, tossing Paul and Barnabas from the town. The Apostles took this persecution in stride and even rejoiced that they were worthy of such treatment in Christ’s name.

            The Gentiles, upon hearing that salvation was available to them as well, were very grateful and thanked the Lord for this message. The Lord’s message spread throughout that region as the Gentiles became believers and began spreading the gospel. The Jews undoing was their pride and arrogance that created the perception that they were superior to others and the only ones who had a right to know their God. In spite of Israel being the chosen ones of God, obviously, not all will enter into heaven by their own doing. Pride and arrogance are dangerous traits to have. They must be shed like a snake sheds its skin. They have no place in a believers life. 

            The lesson we can learn here is that whenever God’s Spirit points out to us needed changes needed in our lives, we must listen to him, or we eventually may become deaf to the sound of the Spirit as it attempts to lead and guide us. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In his name & for his glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.