Paul's 1st Missionary Journey.

Paul's first missionary journey is a powerful story of faith, boldness, and perseverance. It covers Acts 13 and 14, where Paul and Barnabas set out to spread the Gospel across regions like Cyprus and Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Here's a structured exposition for you:

Introduction:

Paul's first missionary journey marks a pivotal moment in the spread of Christianity beyond the Jewish world. Sent by the Holy Spirit, Paul and Barnabas were commissioned by the church in Antioch to carry the Gospel to Gentiles. Their journey reflects the call for all believers to step out in faith despite opposition.

1. The Call and Commissioning (Acts 13:1-3):

Paul and Barnabas are selected through fasting, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Their sending reminds us that the church is both local and global—rooted in one place yet called to the ends of the earth.

**Key Point**: This shows us that ministry is not an individual mission but a communal calling supported by prayer and the Holy Spirit's leading.

2. Ministry in Cyprus (Acts 13:4-12):

Paul and Barnabas arrive in Cyprus, where they encounter the sorcerer Elymas. When Elymas attempts to interfere with the proconsul Sergius Paulus' interest in the Gospel, Paul rebukes him, and Elymas is struck blind. Sergius Paulus believes in Christ after witnessing this miracle.

**Key Point**: This scene illustrates Spiritual warfare and the power of God's word. It also emphasizes that signs and wonders often validate the Gospel's message.

3. Preaching in Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:13-52):

Here, Paul delivers a sermon in the synagogue, presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel's history. He highlights God's faithfulness, from David to Jesus's resurrection. Although many Gentiles accept the message, the Jews become jealous, stirring up opposition.

**Key Point**: The pattern of preaching, acceptance by Gentiles, and rejection by Jews becomes a recurring theme in Paul's ministry. This shows the inclusivity of the Gospel, extending Salvation beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries.

4. Facing Opposition and Perseverance (Acts 14:1-7):

Paul and Barnabas preach effectively in Iconium, but again, they face division and hostility. Despite threats, they continue their work, and many are converted.

**Key Point**: This passage teaches us that perseverance is crucial in the face of opposition. Ministry is not always met with approval, but the calling of the Gospel requires endurance.

5. Lystra: Miracles and Misunderstanding (Acts 14:8-20):

In Lystra, Paul heals a man who was crippled from birth. The crowd mistakes Paul and Barnabas for gods, calling them Hermes and Zeus. After correcting this misunderstanding, opposition arrives again, and Paul is stoned and left for dead. But he rises and continues his mission.

**Key Point**: This section demonstrates that success in ministry can be met with misunderstanding or even persecution. However, Paul's resilience reminds us that God strengthens His servants to continue the work, even in the face of suffering.

6. Return to Antioch: Strengthening the Disciples (Acts 14:21-28):

After retracing their steps to encourage and strengthen the new believers, Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch. They report all that God has done, highlighting how He opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

**Key Point**: Paul and Barnabas' return to Antioch illustrates the importance of follow-up in ministry. Strengthening disciples and ensuring they are rooted in faith is as vital as spreading the Gospel.

Conclusion:

Paul's first missionary journey is a testimony to the power of the Holy Spirit, the necessity of perseverance, and the universal call of the Gospel. As we reflect on this journey, we are reminded of the need to go where God leads us, even into unfamiliar and challenging places, trusting He is with us through it all.

Amen.