In verses 6-12, we learn that two people–Bar-Jesus and Elymas–are in a position to oppose the gospel message directed toward Sergius Paulus, the local political leader.
It’s fitting that on this Pentecost Sunday, the reading from verses 1-5 focuses on the role of the Holy Spirit in commissioning Barnabas and Saul from among the many faithful missionaries in place at Antioch.
Barnabas and Saul haven’t had their big fight about Mark yet.
“Barnabas and Saul finished their mission and returned from Jerusalem, taking John Mark with them” (verse 25).
In verses 22-26, we see Barnabas and Saul teaming up for the first time.
They are powerhouses in the growth of the early Church.
1. Peter explains his vision again
2. Barnabas and Saul team up in Antioch
In verses 10-17, we read about what it took to convince Ananias to help Saul.
At first glance, verses 1-3 are a disaster.
It isn’t until later that we learn that Saul’s persecution of the church will eventually lead him into leadership in the church.
Stephen is buried, Saul will become Paul.
In verses 54-58, the crowd attacks Stephen. Saul stands by and does cloak duty during the proceedings.
Barnabas’ name appears in the Bible 33 times.
Until the middle of Acts 13, Barnabas was the lead missionary in his partnership with Saul.
In the second half of Acts 13, after Saul was renamed Paul, Barnabas took on a secondary role.
