Acts 13:42-52

The Response to the Gospel in Antioch of Pisidia

As they went out of the synagogue, some were stirred to ask Paul and Barnabas to return the following week to speak again. The next sabbath day saw nearly the whole city gather to hear God's word proclaimed. Some of the Jews were jealous, upon seeing the large gathering, and contradicted the message Paul delivered and spoke against God. The apostle immediately let them know that they were required to preach to the Jews first, but if they were determined to reject the gospel, then they would preach to the Gentiles. This statement led to great rejoicing among the Gentiles and all who willingly obeyed the word were added to the kingdom by the Lord. Thus, the truth was spread throughout the region (Acts 13:42-49).

The Jews, meanwhile, stirred up the prominent women of the city and those in authority. They caused Paul and Barnabas to be persecuted and, finally, cast outside the city. Because they had so rejected the message, Paul and Barnabas shook the dust off their feet and went on to Iconium. Despite the opposition, those who had believed God's word rejoiced and were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:50-52).