Paul and Barnabas on their First Missionary Journey (Acts 13-14)
These two chapters are all about he first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas (John Mark was traveling with them as well, although he goes back to Jerusalem fairly early in the trip). Here are some of the highlights that I see.
1. Missionaries are called by the Holy Spirit.
2. Missionaries are sent out by local churches.
3. Missionaries are very dependent on the Holy Spirit.
4. Missionaries should seek the most effective opportunity to share their message. This is what Paul was doing in the synagogues. Some think that he was just so bold that he marched in their and told them all about Jesus to set them straight, kind of like Rambo-Paul. Although it was bold and it was about Jesus, the synagogue is a place that Paul knew he would be given the opportunity to speak, especially as a visiting Jew to their synagogue. So he took advantage of the perfect opportunity. If you decide to march into a church that doesn't know the truth about salvation and set them straight, you are not going to be given the chance to speak. Sometimes Paul only got one chance and usually not more than two, but it was a good spring board in the towns he went to.
5. Missionaries should expect opposition.
6. Missionaries should expect results when they preach the gospel.
What do you see?
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