PARAGRAPH DIVISIONS OF MODERN TRANSLATIONS
| UBS4 | NKJV | NRSV | TEV | NJB |
| Barnabas and Saul Commissioned | Barnabas and Saul Appointed | Barnabas and Saul in Cyprus | Barnabas and Saul are Chosen and Sent | The Mission Sent Out |
| (12:25-13:3) | (12:23-13:12) | |||
| 13:1-3 | 13:1-3 | 13:1-2 | 13:13 | |
| 13:3 | ||||
| The Apostles Preach in Cyprus | Preaching in Cyprus | In Cyprus | Cyprus: The Magician Elymas | |
| 13:4-12 | 13:4-12 | 13:4-12 | 13:4-5 | 13:4-5 |
| 13:6-11a | 13:6-12 | |||
| 13:11b-12 | ||||
| Paul and Barnabas at Antioch of Pisidia | At Antioch of Pisidia | Journey to Antioch of Pisidia and Iconium | In Antioch in Pisidia | They Arrive at Antioch in Pisidia |
| 13:13-16a | 13:13-41 | 13:13-16a | 13:13-16a | 13:13-16a |
| 13:16b-25 | 14:16b-25 | 13:16b-20a | 13:16b-25 | |
| 13:20b-25 | ||||
| 13:26-41 | 13:26-41 | 13:26-41 | 13:26-31 | |
| 13:32-37 | ||||
| 13:38-39 | ||||
| Blessing and Conflict at Antioch | 13:40-41 | |||
| 13:42-43 | 13:42-52 | 13:42-43 | 13:42-43 | 13:42-43 |
| Paul and Barnabas Preach to the Gentiles | ||||
| 13:44-52 | 13:44-47 | 13:44-47 | 13:44-47 | |
| 13:48-52 | 13:48 | 13:48-49 | ||
| 13:49-52 | ||||
| 13:50-52 |
READING CYCLE THREE (from “A Guide
to Good Bible Reading“)
FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR’S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study
guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own
interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the
Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not
relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects.
Compare your subject divisions with the five modern translations. Paragraphing
is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author’s intent,
which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one main
subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS
A. This is an account of Paul and Barnabas’ first missionary journey. The
rest of Acts will be given over to Paul’s ministry.
B. It would be very helpful to turn to the map in the back of your Bible or
atlas and follow the geographical locations mentioned in chapters 13 and 14.
C. There is an obvious transition in chapters 13 and 14 from the leadership
of Barnabas to the leadership of Paul.
WORD AND PHRASE STUDY
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:1-3
1Now there were at Antioch, in
the church that was there, prophets and teachers: Barnabas, and Simeon
who was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen who had been brought up
with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2While they were ministering to
the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul
for the work to which I have called them.” 3Then, when they had
fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
13:1 “Antioch” See note at 11:19.
▣ “the church” See Special Topic at
5:11.
▣ “prophets and teachers” These two
gifts of the Spirit are listed in I Cor. 12:28 and Eph. 4:11. The grammatical
construction is such that it is uncertain whether the five men listed were both
prophets and teachers or if the first three are prophets and the last two are
teachers.
The problem with this term is, “How is the NT gift of prophecy related to OT
prophets?” In the OT prophets are writers of Scripture. In the NT this task is
given to the original twelve Apostles and their helpers. As the term “apostle”
is retained as an ongoing gift (cf. Eph. 4:11), but with a changed task after
the death of the Twelve, so too, is the office of prophet. Inspiration has
ceased; there is no further inspired Scripture. New Testament prophets’ primary
task is proclamation of the gospel, but also a different task, possibly how to
apply NT truths to current situations and needs. See Special Topic at 11:27.
The gift of teacher is mentioned in Acts 13:1 in combination with prophecy,
but in Eph. 4:11 it is linked with pastors. In II Tim. 1:11 Paul says he is a
preacher, apostle, and a teacher. Here it seems to stand independently, as it
does in Rom. 12:7. It is also discussed separately in James 3:1ff. This implies
that these leadership gifts can be combined in different ways in different
believers to meet the need of the church in that day or area. Each of these
gifted leaders (cf. Eph. 4:11) proclaimed the gospel, but in different ways
(ordering, preaching, instructing).
▣ “Simeon who was called Niger” The
term niger is Latin for dark or black. Some commentators try to relate
this Simon to Mark 15:21.
▣ “Lucius of Cyrene” Possibly this is
one of the Hellenistic Jews that preached to the Gentiles in Antioch (cf.
11:20). He is probably not the Lucius mentioned in Rom. 16:21.
▣ “Manaen who had been brought up with Herod
the tetrarch”
Manaen is a Greek form of the Hebrew Manahem, which means
“comforter.” This man was either a foster brother (Greek literature) of Herod
Antipas (see Introduction to chapter 12) or he grew up with him (Koine papyri).
Luke probably got much of his information about Herod Antipas (the Tetrarch)
from conversations with this man.
13:2
NASB“ministering”
NKJV“ministered”
NRSV“worshiping”
TEV“serving”
NJB“offering worship”
This is the Greek term leitourgia
(a compound from “public” and “work”) from which we get the English term
liturgy. Originally it referred to someone who did public service at their own
expense. In this context it implies a period of seeking God’s will during a
worship service. The verb could refer to the entire church or just
the five men listed.
▣ “had fasted” In the OT there is only
one fast day a year, the Day of Atonement, Leviticus 16. However, during the
first century, rabbinical Judaism had developed two fasts a week. Although
fasting is not required of believers, many times it is helpful in discerning
God’s will (cf. 14:23).
▣ “the Holy spirit said” This is
another biblical evidence for the personality of the Holy Spirit (see Special
Topic at 1:2). Whether it was audible or intuitive is uncertain (cf. 8:29;
10:19; 11:12; 20:23; 21:11). It is obvious that this was a very specific message
(cf. 16:6-7), probably given through one of the prophets.
▣ “Set apart” This is an
aorist active imperative. The term aphorizō has the same
connotation as “holy” (hagiazō). It implies set apart and equipped for an
assigned divine task (cf. Rom. 1:1; Gal. 1:15).
▣ After “set apart” in the Greek text
is the particle dē, which denotes intensity
(cf. Luke 2:15; I Cor. 6:20). It gives an earnestness to the Spirit’s call.
There is a parallel in Paul’s statement of 15:36.
▣ “the work to which I have called them”
This is a perfect middle (deponent)
indicative. It is the Spirit who calls and equips for ministry tasks (cf.
I Cor. 12:7,11).
13:3 The verse has three
aorist participles describing the spiritual preparations to send out the
first missionaries from the church at Antioch.
1. fasted
2. prayed
3. laid hands on them
This seems to be the united actions of the whole congregation, not just the
other prophets and teachers. The whole church should be involved in Great
Commission activities!
▣ “laid their hands on them” This
particular verse is one of the ambiguous texts on which our modern practice of
ordination is based. However, it is inappropriate as a biblical foundation for
our modern denominational practices. There are many physical examples of “laying
on of hands” in the Bible.
1. in the OT for the purpose of
a. sacrificial identification (cf. Lev. 1:4; 3:2; 4:4; 16:21)
b. a blessing (cf. Gen. 48:13ff; Matt. 19:13,15)
c. the commissioning of a successor (cf. Num. 27:23; Deut. 34:9)
2. In the NT the background is equally as varied
a. for healing (cf. Luke 4:40; 13:13; Acts 9:17; 28:8)
b. dedication or commissioning to a task (cf. Acts 6:6; 13:3)
c. connected with receiving the Holy Spirit or spiritual gifts (cf. Acts
8:17; 19:6; I Tim. 4:14; II Tim. 1:6)
d. a reference to the basic teachings of Judaism or the church (cf. Heb. 6:2)
This laying on of hands was not an inaugurating experience. These men were
already called, gifted, functioning leaders. It is not a new ministry they are
called to, but an expansion of what they were already doing.
Ordination tends to encourage a distinction among believers. It gives
credence to the clergy-laity dichotomy. The Greek word cleros (to inherit
by lot) and laos (Greek word for people), when used in the NT, always
refers to the entire group of believers. All believers are called, gifted, full
time ministers of the gospel (cf. Eph. 4:11-12). There is no biblical evidence
for separating believers into hierarchal groups. All believers are gifted for
ministry to the body of Christ (cf. I Cor. 12:7, 11).
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:4-12
4So, being sent out by the
Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia and from there they sailed to Cyprus.
5When they reached Salamis, they began to proclaim the word of God
in the synagogues of the Jews; and they also had John as their helper. 6When
they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they found a magician,
a Jewish false prophet whose name was Bar-Jesus, 7who was with the
proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of intelligence. This man summoned Barnabas and
Saul and sought to hear the word of God. 8But Elymas the magician
(for so his name is translated) was opposing them, seeking to turn the proconsul
away from the faith. 9But Saul, who was also known as Paul,
filled with the Holy Spirit, fixed his gaze on him, 10and said, “You
who are full of all deceit and fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all
righteousness, will you not cease to make crooked the straight ways of the Lord?
11“Now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind
and not see the sun for a time.” And immediately a mist and a darkness fell upon
him, and he went about seeking those who would lead him by the hand. 12Then
the proconsul believed when he saw what had happened, being amazed at the
teaching of the Lord.
13:4 “being sent out by the Holy Spirit”
This context does not assert the authority of the local church, but the
authority of the Spirit. He is that part of the Trinity (see Special Topic at
2:32) emphasized in Acts. The “new Messianic age” was known as “the age of the
Spirit.” He calls, gifts, directs, convicts, and empowers (cf. John 14:16-17,26;
15:26; 16:7-15). No permanent or effective ministry can occur without His
presence and blessing.
▣ “Seleucia” This was the port city of
Antioch of Syria. It was about fifteen miles southwest. Its name goes back to
Alexander the Great’s general (Seleucid), who ruled this area after Alexander’s
death.
▣ “Cyprus” This was Barnabas’ home
(cf. 4:36) where there was a large Jewish population. In the OT it is known as
Kittim. This was not the first Christian witness on this island (cf.
11:19-20).
13:5 “Salamis” This was the port city
on the east coast of the island of Cyprus. It was the commercial center of the
island.
▣ “they began to proclaim the word of God in
the synagogue” The reason for this is obvious.
1. these Jews already knew the OT
2. Jews were the chosen people (cf. Gen. 12:1-3) and had the first
opportunity to respond (cf. 3:26; 13:46; 17:2; 18:4,19; 19:8; Rom. 1:16)
3. in the synagogue services were Gentiles who [a] had already been attracted
to the one true God and [b] knew the OT
This became Paul’s regular missionary method wherever there was a synagogue.
▣ “John” This refers to John Mark in
whose home the disciples met (cf. Acts 12:12). He is also the traditional writer
of the Gospel of Mark, which seems to record the eyewitness testimony of the
Apostle Peter. He is also the cause of the great argument between Paul and
Barnabas which split the missionary team (cf. 15:36-41). However, later on Paul
mentions John Mark in a positive way (cf. Col. 4:10; II Tim. 4:11 and Philemon
v. 24). See fuller note at Introduction to chapter 16.
13:6 “when they had gone through the whole
island” This probably means that they stopped and preached in every
synagogue on the island.
▣ “Paphos” This refers to new Paphos,
in contradistinction from the older Phoenician city seven miles away. Both of
these cities are named after the Phoenician goddess Paphian. This was the
god of love also known as Aphrodite, Astarte, Venus, etc.
This city was the official political capital of Cyprus.
▣ “Bar-Jesus” This man was a Jewish
false prophet. His name means “son of Joshua.” We learn from v. 8 that he went
by the designation Elymas the magician. This term magician reflects the Greek
equivalent of an Aramaic root that means “sorcerer” (cf. v. 10). See Special
Topic at 8:9.
13:7 “the proconsul, Sergius Paulus”
There has been much discussion about the historicity of Luke’s accounts. Here is
a good example of the accuracy of Luke the historian. He calls this man “a
proconsul,” which meant Cyprus was a Roman Senatorial province. We learn this
occurred in a.d. 22 by decree from Augustus. We also learn
from a Latin inscription at Soloi that Sergius Paulus began his proconsulship in
a.d. 53. The more information archaeology discovers from the
Mediterranean world of the first century, the more Luke’s historical accuracy is
corroborated.
▣ “a
man of intelligence” This term is used with a wide variety of
connotations. In this context it implies he was able to rule effectively. Also
characterizing him in this way shows that the gospel not only impacted the poor
and uneducated, but also the wealthy and educated (cf. Manaen 13:1). It
is also possible that one of Luke’s intents of writing Acts was to show that the
gospel did not threaten Roman rule.
13:8 “Elymas” It seems that this Greek
name is a transliteration of
1. an Arabic term for a wise man (a sage, a diviner, one who can foresee and
control the future by manipulating the unseen powers/forces of the unseen realm,
AB, vol. 2, p. 487)
2. an Aramaic word for one who interprets dreams
▣ “magician” This is related to the
term “magi,” which meant Chaldean-Median wise men, like Daniel (cf. Dan. 2:2;
4:9; Matt. 2:1). However, by Paul’s day, it was used of itinerant magicians and
wandering quacks in the Greco-Roman world. See Special Topic at 8:9.
▣ “the faith” This term is used in
three specific ways in the NT:
1. personal trusting in Jesus Christ as a Savior
2. faithful, godly living
3. theological content of the gospel (i.e., doctrine, cf. Jude 3, 20)
The same ambiguity is seen in Acts 6:7. Here it seems to refer to #3 because
of the article and the context. See Special Topics at 3:16 and 6:5.
13:9 “Paul” This is the first use of
his Roman cognomen in the book of Acts. Paul is from a Greek term that means
“little.” Some think it refers to Paul’s physical size, others to his own
personal evaluation of himself as “the least of the apostles” because he
persecuted the church. It was probably the second name given to him by his
parents at birth.
▣ “Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit”
The power of the Spirit that guided the early church is described by the term
“the filling” (cf. 2:4; 4:8,31; 6:3; 7:55; 9:17; 13:9,52). The ongoing, daily
filling of the Spirit is the normal state of all believers (cf. Eph. 5:18). In
Acts it is usually associated with a boldness to proclaim the gospel.
▣ “fixed his gaze” See fuller note at
1:10.
13:10 Paul characterizes this Jewish
false prophet by several terms.
1. “full by deceit,” meaning to entrap with a bait (this is the only use of
this term in Luke’s writings)
2. “full of all fraud,” this is from the Greek word that means to do
something lightly or frivolously, but it came to have an evil connotation (cf.
18:14). This term is found only in Acts (cf. 13:10; 18:14).
3. “son of the devil,” this is a Semitic idiom (cf. 3:25; 4:36) for one
characterized by the actions of the devil (cf. Matt. 13:38; John 8:38,41,44, see
Special Topics at 5:3)
4. “enemy of all
righteousness,” This term is used several times in Luke’s writings involving OT
quotes (cf. Luke 1:71,74; 20:43; Acts 2:35). All that is like God, this man was
against. See
SPECIAL TOPIC: RIGHTEOUSNESS at 3:14.
5. Paul uses the inclusive term “all” three times to show this man’s complete
volitional wickedness
▣ “to make crooked the straight ways of the
Lord” This question expects a “yes” answer. The word “right” or
“straight” in the NT reflects the OT concept of righteousness, which meant a
standard or measuring reed. The NT terms “crooked” or “perverted” reflect the OT
terms for sin, which were a deviation from the standard, which is God Himself.
This man made everything crooked (i.e., the opposite of righteousness). See
Special Topic at 3:14.
13:11 “the hand of the Lord” This is a
Semitic anthropomorphic phrase referring to the power and presence of YHWH (cf.
Luke 1:66; Acts 11:21). In the OT it often refers to God’s judgment (cf. Exod.
9:3; I Sam. 5:6; Job 19:21; 23:2; Ps. 32:4; 38:2; 39:10), as it does here.
▣ “you will be blind” These powerful
descriptive terms of evil and rebellion by which Paul characterizes this man and
the form of his temporary divine punishment may reflect Paul’s own previous
life. He looks back now and sees himself in this Jewish false teacher and his
manipulation (cf. 9:8).
Blindness is often used in a parabolic sense of a lack of spiritual
receptivity (cf. John 9; Acts 9; also note Deut. 28:28-29).
13:12 “believed when he saw what happened”
This is the same Greek word (pisteuō, the
noun can be translated as believe, faith, or trust) used throughout the
NT for genuine belief. This governor responded to the gospel message. One man’s
eyes were closed (literally); one man’s eyes were opened (metaphorically). This
is the mystery of belief and unbelief (cf. John 9). See Special Topics: Faith (noun,
verb, and adjective) at 3:16 and OT Faith at 6:5.
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:13-16a
13Now Paul and his companions
put out to sea from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia; but John left them
and returned to Jerusalem. 14But going on from Perga, they arrived at
Pisidian Antioch, and on the Sabbath day they went into the synagogue and sat
down. 15After the reading of the Law and the Prophets the synagogue
officials sent to them, saying, “Brethren, if you have any word of exhortation
for the people, say it.” 16Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand
said,
13:13 “Paul and his companions”
Obviously the leadership has changed. From now on in the book of Acts Paul’s
name will be listed first.
▣ “Perga in Pamphylia” Perga was the
largest city of the small Roman coastal province of Pamphylia (mid-southern
Turkey). It was located several miles inland to discourage attacks by sea-faring
raiders.
Apparently Paul did not preach here at this time, but did so later (cf.
14:25). There is no historical evidence of a Christian group in this area for
several hundred years. He merely passed through this coastal region.
▣
“John left them and returned to Jerusalem” Luke records this event, but
gives no clue as to why (nor does any other NT author). See Introduction to
chapter 16, he returned to the Lord’s service!
13:14 “Pisidian Antioch” This
literally means “Antioch towards Pisidia” because it was located in the ethnic
area of Phrygia the Roman Province of Galatia. This was a distinct ethnic group,
probably from Europe.
▣ “on
the Sabbath day” This would denote from sundown on Friday to sundown on
Saturday. The Jews counted time from evening to evening, following Genesis 1.
▣ “sat
down” This may be an idiom denoting someone who was to speak in the
synagogue. Rabbis always taught while seated (cf. Matt. 5:1; Luke 4:20). The
synagogues regularly allowed itinerant visitors to speak if they wished (cf. v.
15).
13:15 “the reading of the Law and the
Prophets” This was the part of the typical order of service in a
synagogue in Jesus’ day. Originally only the Law of Moses was read, but
Antiochus IV Epiphanes forbade this in 163
b.c. The Jews then substituted the reading of the Prophets. During the
Maccabeen revolt, Judaism was restored and both the Law and the Prophets were
continued to be read together as a basic format of synagogue services (cf. v.
27). See Special Topic following.
▣ “the synagogue officials” These were
the men in charge of building maintenance and the order of worship (cf. Luke
8:41,49). They often invited guests to speak.
▣ “if you have any word of exhortation”
This is a first class conditional sentence, assumed to
be true from the perspective of the author of for his literary purposes. This
was a normal aspect of synagogue worship. Paul took full advantage of the
opportunity.
13:16 “Paul stood up” Usually Jewish
teachers sit when they teach; however, it was the Greco-Roman custom to stand
while teaching. Paul modified his manner and presentation to the audience.
▣ “motioning with his hand” Paul
gestured for quiet. Luke mentions this eyewitness detail often (cf. 12:17;
13:16; 19:33; 21:40).
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:16b-25
16“Men of Israel, and you who
fear God, listen: 17‘The God of this people Israel chose our fathers
and made the people great during their stay in the land of Egypt, and with an
uplifted arm He led them out from it. 18For a period of about forty
years He put up with them in the wilderness. 19When He had destroyed
seven nations in the land of Canaan, He distributed their land as an
inheritance—all of which took about four hundred and fifty years. 20After
these things He gave
them judges until Samuel the prophet. 21Then they asked for a
king, and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin,
for forty years. 22After He had removed him, He raised up David to be
their king, concerning whom He also testified and said, “I
have found David the son of Jesse,
a man after My heart, who will do all My will.” 23From the
descendants of this man, according to promise, God has brought to Israel a
Savior, Jesus,
24after John had proclaimed before His coming a baptism of repentance
to all the people of Israel.
25And while John was completing his course, he kept saying, ‘What do
you suppose that I am? I am not
He. But behold, one is coming after me
the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.'”
13:16b “Men of Israel, and you who fear God,
listen” There were two groups present, Jews and Gentile “God-fearers”
(cf. v. 26; 10:2,22,35). This sermon is very similar to Stephen’s sermon of Acts
7. In many ways Paul was deeply influenced by Stephen’s understanding of the OT
and the gospel.
13:17 Paul began his review of OT
history with the call of the Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in Genesis)
and the captivity and deliverance from Egypt (Exodus-Deuteronomy).
▣ “with an uplifted arm He led them out”
This is typical OT imagery (cf. LXX Exod. 6;1,6) of YHWH in physical terms. It
is similar to the anthropomorphic phrase, “His right arm.” The Bible speaks of
God in human vocabulary (i.e., anthropomorphism) even though He is an eternal,
non-physical, all pervasive Spirit. These biblical analogies are the source of
many misunderstandings and literal overstatements. The Bible speaks of God in
analogy, metaphor, and negation. God is far greater than fallen, time-bound,
earth-bound humans can comprehend or express! See Special Topic at 2:33.
13:18 “For a period of about forty years He
put up with them in the wilderness” This reflects Deut. 1:31 and could be
translated “fed as a nurse” (cf. MSS A, C). This reflects the OT books of Exodus
and Numbers.
The term “forty” is often a round
number. Literally the time from Horeb to Shittim was thirty-eight years with a
two year period at Horeb (Sinai). See Special Topic at 1:3.
13:19 “destroyed seven nations” The
nations of Palestine can be characterized in several ways.
1. collective terms, Canaanite (i.e., lowlander, cf. Gen. 10:18-29; Jdgs.
1:1) or Amorite (i.e., highlander, cf. Gen. 15:16)
2. two nations (Canaanites, Perizzites, cf. Gen. 13:7; 34:30; Jdgs. 1:4-5)
3. three nations (Hivites, Canaanites, Hittites, cf. Exod. 23:28)
4. six nations (Canaanite, Hittite, Amorite, Perizzite, Hivite, Jebusite, cf.
Exod. 3:8,17; 33:2; 34:11; Deut. 20:17; Josh. 9:1; 12:8)
5. seven nations (Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites,
Hivites, Jebusites, cf. Deut. 7:1; Josh. 3:10; 24:11)
6. ten nations (Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, Hittites, Perizzites,
Rephaim, Amonites, Canaanites, Girgashites, Jebusites, cf. Gen. 15:19-21)
SPECIAL TOPIC: PRE-ISRAELITE INHABITANTS OF PALESTINE
▣ “an inheritance” The triple compound
term kata +
klēros + nemō is common in the Septuagint, but is used only here
in the NT (other texts have
kata + klēros + didōmi). It implies the casting of lots as a means
of dividing the Promised Land among the tribes (cf. Josh. 13-19). The word
klēros is where we get the English word “clergy,” but in the NT it always
refers to the body of believers, not an elite group!
▣ “four hundred and fifty years” This
number seems to be arrived at by:
1. 400 year bondage in Egypt (cf. Gen. 15:13)
2. 40 year wilderness wandering period (cf. Exod. 16:35; Num. 14:33-34;
32:13)
3. 7-10 year conquest (cf. Josh. 14:7,10)
The Textus Receptus (KJV) moves the number to v. 20 and seems to involve the
Judges (following Josephus,
Antiq. 8.3.1), but this wording is not in the older and better uncial
Greek manuscripts (cf. א, A, B, C), which fits better with I Kgs. 6:1 dating.
The dash found in the NASB is to accentuate the proper place of the number.
13:20 This refers to the period from
the book of Judges through I Samuel 7.
13:21 This refers to I Sam. 8-10.
▣ “for
forty years” This time phrase is not found in the OT unless the OT
manuscript problem connected to I Sam. 13:1 includes “forty” (NIV). Josephus,
Antiq. 6.14.9 also mentions that Saul reigned “forty” years. The Septuagint
just omits the entire sentence and starts with I Sam. 3:2. “Forty” was obviously
a rabbinical tradition.
13:22 “I
have found David the son of Jesse,
a man after My heart“ This is not a direct quote from the OT but
it seems to be a combination of Psalm 89:20 and I Samuel 13:14. It needs to be
remembered that this sermon by Paul follows the basic pattern of Stephen’s
historical rendition in Acts 7. That David can be called a man after God’s
heart, when he was such a notorious sinner (cf. Ps. 32,51; II Samuel 11), is a
great encouragement to all believers.
This combination quote implies several things.
1. This was a standard practice with the rabbis, which explains many of the
unusual OT quotes in the NT.
2. This was already a part of Christian catechism. Paul often quotes from
early Christian hymns and possibly other literature.
3. This quote is unique to Paul and shows that Luke must have gotten his
summary of this first recorded message of Paul in Acts from Paul himself.
NASB, NKJV“who will do all My will”
NRSV“who will carry out all my wishes”
TEV“who will do all I want him to do”
NJB“who will perform my entire will”
This verse is a combination OT
allusion. This part of the sentence is not in the OT passages. In the OT context
Saul was disobedient and rejected. But David’s life also had disobedience. God
works with imperfect humans to accomplish His redemptive plan.
13:23 This is parallel to Acts 7:52.
It points back to all the OT promises.
1. a redemption through the seed of a woman, Gen, 3:15
2. a ruler from Judah, Gen. 49:10
3. a coming leader like Moses, the Prophet, Deut. 18:15,18
4. a leader from David, II Sam. 7; Ps. 132:11; Isa. 11:1,10; Matt. 1:1
5. a suffering servant, Isa. 52:13-53:12
6. a savior, Luke 2:11; Matt. 1:21; John 1:29; 4:42; Acts 5:31
For Luke #4 is prominent (cf. Luke 1:32,69; 2:4; 3:31; Acts 2:29-31;
13:22-23). The Messiah would be of Jesse’s line (cf. Isa. 9:7; 11:1,10; 16:5).
13:24 John the Baptist’s ministry and
message is described in Mark 1:1-8; Matt. 3:1-11; Luke 3:2-17; John 1:6-8,19-28.
John fulfilled the prophecies of Matt. 3:1; 4:5-6. His preaching of repentance
also set the pattern for Jesus’ early preaching (cf. Matt. 4:17; Mark 1:14-15).
John spoke of a Coming One, greater than himself (cf. Matt. 3:11; Mark 1:7;
Luke 3:16; John 1:27,30; Acts 13:25).
13:25 “while John was completing his course”
God had a specific task for John to perform. John’s public ministry only lasted
eighteen months. But, what a year and a half it was, filled with the Spirit’s
power and preparing the way for the Messiah.
Paul knew the OT from his youth in synagogue school and his training as a
rabbi under Gamaliel in Jerusalem. He heard the gospel
1. from Stephen
2. from believers he persecuted
3. by a special vision from Jesus
4. from a believing Jewish layman from Damascus
5. by Jesus in Arabia
6. when he visited with the other Apostles
He tries to quote Jesus’ whenever he can on a subject. Here he quotes the
Gospel accounts of His life
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:26-41
26“Brethren, sons of Abraham’s
family, and those among you who fear God, to us the message of this salvation
has been sent. 27For those who live in Jerusalem, and their rulers,
recognizing neither Him nor the utterances of the prophets which are read every
Sabbath, fulfilled these by condemning Him. 28And
though they found no ground for putting Him to death, they asked Pilate
that He be executed. 29When they had carried out all that was written
concerning Him, they took Him down from the cross and laid Him in a tomb.
30But God raised Him from the dead; 31and for many days He
appeared to those who came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, the very ones
who are now His witnesses to the people. 32And we preach to you the
good news of the promise made to the fathers, 33that God has
fulfilled this promise to our children in that He raised up Jesus, as it
is also written in the second Psalm, ‘You
are My Son; today have begotten You.’ 34As for the fact
that He raised Him up from the dead, no longer to return to decay, He has spoken
in this way: ‘I will give you the holy
and sure blessings
of David.‘
35Therefore He also says in another Psalm, ‘You
will not allow Your Holy One to undergo decay.’ 36For David,
after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep, and
was laid among his fathers and underwent decay; 37but He whom God
raised did not undergo decay. 38Therefore let it be known to you,
brethren, that through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, 39and
through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things, from which you could
not be freed through the Law of Moses. 40Therefore take heed, so that
the thing spoken of in the Prophets may not come upon you:
41‘Behold, you scoffers, and marvel, and perish; For I
am accomplishing a work in your days, A work which you will never believe,
though someone should describe it to you.'”
13:26 “sons of Abraham’s family, and those
among you who fear God” This refers to both the Jewish hearers (or
proselytes) and the Gentiles (God-fearers) attached to Judaism’s monotheism and
morality.
▣
“this salvation” This is referring to God’s promise to redeem fallen
humanity through a Messiah (cf. Gen. 3:15). It includes Gentiles (cf. Gen. 12:5;
Exod. 19:5-6; and Acts 28:28 and 13:46).
13:27 This is such a tragic verse. It
succinctly summarizes the blindness of the Jews in Jerusalem about the
Scriptures even though they read them continuously. By missing the prophetic
signs (cf. Psalm 22; Isaiah 53; Zechariah; Malachi) and prophecies (Isaiah,
Jonah) they became the prophetic sign! He came to His own, but
His own received Him not (cf. John 1:11-12).
13:28 Acts records again and again the
spiritual responsibility of the Jews in Jerusalem (cf. 2:23,36; 3:13-15; 4:10;
5:30; 7:52; 10:;39; 13:27-28).
13:29 “they. . .they” These must refer
to different groups. The first were those who sought His death (i.e., Jewish
leadership, the crowd before Pilate). The second involves those who wanted a
proper burial. This could have involved sincere Jewish people who saw the
injustice (similar to Acts 8:2, involving the burial of Stephen) or secret
disciples like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus (cf. John 19:38-42).
▣ “all that was written concerning Him”
Jesus’ life was one of fulfilled prophecy. One strong evidence for the
inspiration of the Bible and the Messiahship of Jesus of Nazareth is predictive
prophecy (cf. Luke 22:22; Acts 2:23; 3:18; 4:28; 10:43; 13:29; 24:14; 26:22).
It is surely true that many of the details of Jesus’ life, which we in the
church today call prophecy, are in a sense typology. Many events happened in the
life of Israel which later seem to also occur in Jesus’ life (one example, Hosea
11:1). Often ambiguous, oblique passages, which would not have been understood
in context as prophetic, seem to jump to life as one views Jesus’ earthly
experience (ex. Psalm 22; Isaiah 53). It takes inspiration and a sense of the
flow of redemptive history to fully appreciate the OT foreshadowing of Jesus. I
would also add that although inspired NT writers use typology, even allegory,
that modern teachers and preachers should not use this method of interpretation!
See Bob’s Biblical Interpretation Seminar online at www.freebiblecommentary.org
▣ “the
cross” See notes at 5:30 and 10:29.
13:30,33,34,37 “But God raised Him from the
dead” The NT affirms that all three persons of the Trinity were active in
Jesus’ resurrection:
1. the Spirit (cf. Rom. 8:11)
2. the Son (cf. John 2:19-22; 10:17-18)
3. the Father (cf. Acts 2:24,32; 3:15,26; 4:10; 5:30; 10:40; 13:30,33,34,37;
17:31; Rom. 6:4,9; 10:9; I Cor. 6:14; II Cor. 4:14; Gal. 1:1; Eph. 1:20; Col.
2:12; I Thess. 1:10).
This was the Father’s confirmation of the truth of Jesus’ life and teachings.
This is a major aspect of the
Kerygma (i.e., content of the sermons in Acts). See Special Topic at
2:14.
13:31 “for many days” Acts 1:3 says
“forty days.” However, forty is a common OT round number. See Special Topic at
1:3.
▣ “He
appeared” See Special Topic: Jesus’ Post-resurrection Appearances at 1:3
13:32 “the promise made to the fathers”
This refers to the initial promise of YHWH to Abraham for a land and a seed (cf.
Gen. 12:1-3; Romans 4). This same promise of God’s presence and blessing was
repeated to the Patriarchs and to their children (cf. Isa. 44:3; 54:13; Joel
2:32). The OT focuses on the land, while the NT focuses on “the seed.” Paul
alludes to this very promise in Rom. 1:2-3.
13:33 This quote from Ps. 2:7, which
is a royal messianic psalm about the conflict and victory of God’s Promised
Messiah. Jesus had been killed by evil forces (human and demonic), but God had
raised Him to victory (cf. Rom. 1:4).
This verse and Rom. 1:4 were used by early heretics (adoptionists) to assert
that Jesus became Messiah at the resurrection. There is surely a NT emphasis on
Jesus being affirmed and glorified because of His obedience, but this must not
be taken in isolation from His preexistent glory and deity (cf. John 1:1-5,9-18;
Phil. 2:6-11; Col. 1:13-18; Heb. 1:2-3).
This same verb, “raised up” (anistēmi),
is used in Acts 3:26 of God raising up “His Servant”; in Acts 3:22 of God
raising up the Prophet (cf. 7:37; Deut. 18:19). This seems to be a distinct
usage from “raised” from the dead (cf. vv. 30,34,37). Jesus was “raised up”
before He died!
13:34 “no longer to return to decay”
This statement refers to Jesus’ death and resurrection. He was the first to be
resurrected (first fruits of the dead, cf. I Cor. 15:20) rather than
resuscitated. Many people were brought back to physical life in the Bible, but
they all had to die again. Enoch and Elijah were translated to heaven without
death, but they were not resurrected.
▣ “I
will give you the holy
and sure blessings of David“ This is a quote from Isa.
55:3 from the LXX. The quote includes the plural “sure blessings,” but does not
specify to what this refers. It is something that passed from God to David, to
Jesus, then to His followers (plural
“you” in the quote). The OT context shows the significance of “you” (cf. Isa.
55:4-5 LXX, “Behold, I have made him a testimony among the Gentiles, a prince
and commander to the Gentiles. Nations which know thee not, shall call upon
thee, and peoples which are not acquainted with thee, shall flee to thee for
refuge, for the sake of the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has
glorified thee,” The Septuagint, Zondervan, 1976, p. 890).
The blessings and promises to David (i.e., Jews) are now the blessing and
promises of the Gentiles (i.e., the entire human race).
13:35-37 This is the same argument
used earlier in Peter’s Pentecost sermon (cf. 2:24-32), also taken from Psalm
16. These early sermons in Acts reflect an early Christian catechism. Several OT
Messianic texts were strung together. Therefore, often the
pronouns and details do not seem to be relevant to the central purpose of
the NT author, which was to affirm the physical resurrection of Jesus and the
decay of David.
13:38 Paul is using an OT augmented
argument, as does Peter (Acts 2) and Stephen (Acts 7) to reach these synagogue
hearers.
Paul promises a full and complete forgiveness of sins, which Judaism could
not provide (cf. v. 39), to all who trust Jesus as the Christ (i.e., “This One,”
vv. 38,39).
13:39 “and through Him everyone”
Notice the universal element. God loves all humans and all humans have the
opportunity to respond to Him by faith (cf. 10:43; Isa. 42:1,4,6,10-12; 55;
Ezek. 18:23,32; Joel 2:28,32; John 3:16; 4:42; Rom. 3:22,29,30; 10:9-13; I Tim.
2:4; 4:10; Titus 2:11; II Peter 3:9; I John 2:1; 4:14).
▣ “who believes” See Special Topics at
3:16 and 6:5.
NASB, NKJV“is freed from all things” (v. 39)
NRSV“is set free from all those sins” (v. 39)
TEV“is set free from all the sins” (v. 39)
NJB“justification from all sins” (v. 38)
This is literally “justified” (present
passive indicative). This is a legal term which describes our standing
before God through Jesus Christ’s righteousness (cf. II Cor. 5:21). In Hebrew it
originally means a “river reed” (see Special Topic at 3:14). It reflects an OT
construction term used metaphorically for God as the standard or ruler by which
judgement is made.
▣ “which you could not be freed through the
Law of Moses” This was Paul’s major theological point (cf. Rom. 3:21-30).
The Mosaic law was a tutor to bring us to an understanding of our personal sin
and to cause us to desire Christ (cf. Gal. 3:23-29). The OT Law is not a means
of salvation, because all sinned (cf. Rom. 3:9-18,23; Gal. 3:22). It had become
a death sentence, a curse (cf. Gal. 3:13; Col. 2:14).
SPECIAL TOPIC: PAUL’S VIEWS OF THE MOSAIC LAW
13:40-41 Paul calls on his hearers (present active imperative) to respond by
trusting Jesus as the Promised Messiah, as the only way to receive forgiveness
(cf. John 14:6; Acts 4:12; I Tim. 2:5).
He quotes Hab. 1:5 from the Septuagint as a warning. In other places in
Paul’s writings he quotes Hab. 2:4 as an appropriate response (cf. Rom. 1:17;
Gal. 3:11). Paul preaches for a decision. Intellectual assent is not enough; a
complete personal surrender to Jesus as the only hope is required. This initial
faith and repentant response must be matched by daily Christlike living.
Verse 41 describes the shocking new methodology of salvation of the new
covenant in Christ.
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:42-43
42As Paul and Barnabas were
going out, the people kept begging that these things might be spoken to them the
next Sabbath. 43Now when the meeting of the synagogue had
broken up, many of the Jews and of the God-fearing proselytes followed Paul and
Barnabas, who, speaking to them, were urging them to continue in the grace of
God.
13:42 This shows the power of the
Spirit (1) using Paul’s sermon and (2) the hunger for forgiveness and
restoration with God within the hearts of humans made in God’s image.
13:43
NASB“God-fearing proselytes”
NKJV“devout proselytes”
NRSV“devout converts to Judaism”
TEV“Gentiles who had been converted to Judaism”
NJB“devout converts”
This phrase is literally “worshiping
proselytes.” This is a different group from the “ones fearing God” of vv. 16,26
(cf. 10:2,22,35).
Verse 43 refers to those Gentiles who had officially become Jews. This
required
1. self baptism in the presence of witnesses
2. circumcision for males
3. offering a sacrifice at the Temple in Jerusalem when possible
There are a few references to Jewish proselytes in the NT (cf. Matt. 23;15;
Acts 2:11; 6:5; 13:43).
▣ “urging them to continue in the grace of
God” From the context it is difficult to define this phrase.
1. some of these hearers may have already responded to the gospel in their
hearts
2. those who were faithful to what they understood of the grace of God in the
OT are urged to continue to seek God and listen to Paul again (cf. v. 44)
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:44-47
44The next Sabbath nearly the
whole city assembled to hear the word of the Lord. 45But when the
Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began
contradicting the things spoken by Paul, and were blaspheming. 46Paul
and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, “It was necessary that the word of God
be spoken to you first; since you repudiate it and judge yourselves unworthy of
eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. 47For so the
Lord has commanded us, ‘I have placed You
as a light for the Gentiles, That You may bring salvation to the end of the
earth.‘”
13:44 Paul’s message had an obvious
impact. This is also hyperbole. Not
everyone in the city attended.
NASB, NRSV,
TEV“the word of the Lord”
NKJV, NJB,
REB“the word of God”
There is a Greek manuscript variant at this point.
1. Lord is in MSS P74, א, A, B2
2. God is in MSS B, C, E
The UBS4 puts “Lord” in the text, but rates it “C” (difficulty
deciding). As with so many variants, this does not change the sense of the text.
The gospel is a divine revelation about Jesus, the Messiah/Christ.
13:45 “when the Jews saw the crowd. .
.jealousy” Whether it was the large turnout or the large number of
Gentiles in the crowd that caused the jealousy is uncertain in this context.
Jealousy is attributed to Jewish leadership both in Jerusalem and the Diaspora.
(cf. Matt. 27:18; Mark 15:10; Acts 17:5).
Later in Romans Paul develops the theological problem of Jewish unbelief (cf.
Romans 9-11). He asserts that God has temporarily blinded Israel so that the
Gentiles might be saved. However, God will use the salvation of the Gentiles as
a means (i.e., jealousy) to cause Israel to respond to Christ, so that all
believers will be united through the gospel (cf. Eph. 2:11-3:13).
The problem is when does this occur? The same question could be asked of
Zech. 12:10. Is this prophecy related to the early church, which was made up of
believing Jews, or to a future period? Jealousy is meant for a redemptive
purpose (cf. Rom. 10:19; 11:11,14), but the jealousy in this text causes
unbelief!
▣
“they were fill with jealousy”
See note at 3:10.
▣
“were blaspheming” As these Jews defended their traditions and attacked
Paul’s preaching, they themselves were guilty of blasphemy. There is no middle
ground here. Either Judaism or Christianity is a true reflection of God’s will.
They are exclusive!
13:46 “spoke out boldly” This is one
of the signs in Acts of being Spirit-filled.
▣ “‘It
was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first'” This was the
pattern of early missionary preaching. The Jews had priority (cf. Romans 9-11),
but God had included Gentiles. Those in the synagogue knew their OT and could
check the prophecies. Acts has a series of texts on this concept and pattern
(cf. 3:26; 9:20; 13:5,14; 16:13; 17:2,10,17).
▣
“‘you repudiate it'”
This is a strong verb (present middle
indicative) used several times in the Septuagint. Its basic meaning is
“to thrust away.” It was used of the Israelites in Stephen’s sermon (cf. 7:39).
It is also used by Paul in Rom. 11:1-2 to assert that God has not rejected His
people, but they have rejected His Son, His only means of salvation, His full
revelation.
▣ “‘judge yourselves unworthy of eternal
life'” It is difficult to hold the concept of predestination, which is
emphasized so often in Acts, with the concept of mandated individual personal
response. No one can come to faith without the drawing of the Spirit (cf. John
6:44,65), but we are judged by whether we respond or not. By their rejection of
Paul’s preaching of the gospel, they revealed their true selves (cf. John
3:17-21). The blame for lack of response cannot be placed on God. He has
provided a way, His Son, but He is
the only way! It is the myster
of “unbelief”!
▣ “we are turning to the Gentiles”
This becomes a regular pattern of gospel proclamation (cf. 18:6; 22:21; 26:20;
28:28; Rom. 1:16).
13:47 This is a quote from Isa. 49:6
(cf. 42:6) from the Septuagint. Simeon used this quote at the blessing of Jesus
in Luke 2:32 to affirm His Messianic task of universal redemption (see Special
Topic at 1:8). It is even possible that the “light” in the context refers to
Paul and Barnabas’ preaching of the gospel to these Gentiles (cf. “Use of the
Old Testament in the New,” by Darrell Boch, p. 97 in Foundations for Biblical
Interpretation, Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1994). Now Paul uses it to
show the universal proclamation of the universal gospel!
The ending phrase, “to the end of the earth,” may be an allusion to 1:8. It
highlights the universality of the gospel.
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 13:48-52
48When the Gentiles heard
this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord; and as
many as had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49And the word
of the Lord was being spread through the whole region. 50But the Jews
incited the devout women of prominence and the leading men of the city, and
instigated a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their
district. 51But they shook off the dust of their feet in protest
against them and went to Iconium.
52And the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the
Holy Spirit.
13:48 “When the Gentiles heard this, they
began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord” Many of these
had been in the synagogue for years and had never heard the inclusive, universal
message of God’s love and acceptance of all humanity by faith in Messiah. When
they heard it they enthusiastically received it (cf. 28:28) and passed it on to
others (cf. v. 49).
▣ “as many as had been appointed to eternal
life believed” This is a clear statement of predestination (so common in
the rabbis’ and Intertestamental Jewish literature), but it is in the same
ambiguous relationship as all NT passages that relate to the paradox of God’s
choice and human’s free will (cf. Phil. 2:12, 13). It is a
pluperfect passive periphrastic that comes from a military term (tassō)
which means to “enroll” or “appoint.”
This concept of enrolling refers to the two metaphorical books that God keeps
(cf. Dan. 7:10; Rev. 20:12). First is the Book of the Deeds of men (cf. Ps.
56:8; 139:16; Isa. 65:6; and Mal. 3:16). The other is the Book of Life (cf.
Exod. 32:32; Ps. 69:28; Isa. 4:3; Dan. 12:1; Luke 10:20; Phil. 4:3; Heb. 12:23;
Rev. 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12-15; 21:27). See Special Topic:
Election/Predestination and the Need for a Theological Balance at 2:47.
13:50 “But the Jews incited the devout women
of prominence” This text gives historical and cultural setting of the
exalted place of women in Asia Minor in the first century (cf. 16:14; 17:4).
In this context it refers to
proselytes to Judaism who were also leaders in the community or were married to
the civic leaders. A. T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament,
vol. 3, p. 201, makes the point that Gentile women were greatly attracted to
Judaism (cf. Strabo 7:2 and Juvenal
6:542) because of its morality.
▣
“instigated a persecution against Paul” Paul refers to this in II Tim.
3:11.
13:51 “they shook off the dust of their feet”
This is a Jewish sign of rejection (cf. Matt. 10:14; Mark 6:11; Luke 9:5;
10:11). It is uncertain whether this refers to (1) dust on their feet and
sandals from walking or (2) dust on their robes which was kicked up when they
were working.
▣ “Iconium” This was a major city of
Lycaonia, located in the Roman province of Galatia. It was about eighty miles
east, south-east of Pisidian Antioch and directly north of Lystra.
13:52 “continually filled with joy”
This is an imperfect passive indicative which can mean
the beginning of an action or the repeat of an action in past time. The NASB,
1995 update, takes it in the second sense. Only the Holy Spirit can give joy
amidst persecution (cf. Rom. 5:3; James 1:2ff; I Peter 4:12ff).
The phrase “the disciples” is ambiguous. Does it refer to the new believers,
the missionary team, or both?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study
guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own
interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the
Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not
relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you
think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be
thought-provoking, not definitive.
1. Why can 13:2-3 not be used as a proof-text for ordination by a select
group?
2. Why did Paul preach in the synagogue first?
3. Why did John Mark leave the mission team? (cf. v. 13)
4. How is v. 39 related to Galatians 3?
5. Explain v. 48b in relation to predestination and human free will.
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