Acts 13-14

The branches of the tree begin to spread out across the Mediterranean Sea. The seed was planted in Jerusalem. The strong trunk of a unified Israel grew as the barriers between Hebraic Jews, Grecian Jews, and Samaritans were torn down in the power of the Holy Spirit. The seed of the Kingdom crossed the great divide of nations as the Holy Spirit came upon a Roman household. Now, with a new base camp in Antioch, under the leadership of a multicultural dream team, the church launches its campaign to bring the good news of Jesus and the invitation to the Kingdom of God to the rest of the world.

This first recorded missionary journey is one that is full of intrigue, adventure, and inspiration. On the island of Cypress, Paul and Barnabas tear down the enemy’s stronghold as they confront Elymas and open the door for the good news of Jesus. Then, on the mainland, in the regions of Pisidia and Galatia, Paul and Barnabas plant the first churches for Gentile nations. In this maiden voyage, we are given examples of how to confront the enemy in spiritual battle, present the gospel in culturally relevant ways, proclaim the truth, heal the sick, and keep an eternal perspective in the face of cruel opposition. These are all the essential components of any missionary endeavor, both then and now.