Acts 13:50 meaning
Confrontation was a key theme in the ministry of Paul and Barnabas, especially in regard to the entrenched religious norms of their time. Their bold proclamation of the gospel met with fierce resistance, particularly from the Jewish leaders who felt threatened by the influx of Gentiles accepting their message. In this context, the influential Jews of the city, including prominent women and respected men, incited persecution against the missionaries, ultimately resulting in their expulsion from the area. This passage reveals both the hostility of those opposed to the gospel and the determination of the apostles to share their faith despite significant opposition, as noted in Acts 13:50.
The response of Paul and Barnabas to their expulsion was to shake the dust off their feet, symbolizing a decisive withdrawal from those who rejected the gospel. This act conveyed that they would not carry the remnants of that rejection with them, serving as a powerful statement against unbelief. The conclusion of this narrative, however, emphasizes not defeat but joy—both for the disciples left behind and for Paul and Barnabas as they moved on to Iconium. Theirs was a ministry marked by trials but also filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, which is essential for believers facing adversity.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Acts 13:44-52 meaning. Paul preaches in Pisidian Antioch again, with most of the city gathered to hear him. But certain jealous Jewish leaders interrupt him and slander him. Paul and Barnabas condemn these men, saying that if they will reject God’s offer of eternal life, then Paul and Barnabas will preach it to the Gentiles. The Gentiles are excited to hear this, and many believe. The number of believers grows in that area, until the Jewish opponents organize a persecution that drives Paul and Barnabas out of town. But the new believers in Jesus in Pisidian Antioch do not abandon their faith. God sustains them through His Spirit, giving them joy.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Acts 13:38-43 meaning. Paul explains that through faith in Jesus, anyone who believes will be forgiven of their sins and freed from the power of sin in their lives. Through Jesus we are seen as righteous in God's sight. Paul warns his listeners to believe, lest they suffer God's wrath toward those who scoff at Him. Paul's audience begs Barnabas and him to return a week later to preach again. Paul encourages the Galatians in their new faith.
- Matthew 26:6-13 meaning. When Jesus is in the home of Simon the leper, a woman anoints His head with expensive perfume. The disciples see this as a waste of money and resources. Jesus informs them that she has done a good thing and that it prepares His body for burial. This event is commonly referred to as "Jesus's Anointing at Bethany."
- Matthew 25:14-30 meaning. Parable of the Talents: Jesus tells another parable about the kingdom of heaven and His return, likening them to a man who entrusts his estate to his servants while he is away on a long journey. He respectively entrusts five, two, and one talent(s) to three servants according to their abilities. The first two servants use this money to double his investment. The single talent servant digs a hole and buries the money entrusted to him. When the master returns, he settles the accounts with each of his servants. He rewards the first two servants for their faithfulness by giving them greater responsibilities and invites them to enter into the joy of their master. But he reprimands and demotes the third servant for his wicked laziness.
Set to dark modeSet to dark modeAsk The Bible Says