Ministering and Fasting 

In Acts 13, Luke picks back up at the comings and goings of Saul. The first verse lists five specific men that were in Antioch doing God’s work. Those men were Barnabas, Simeon, Lucius, Manaen, and Saul. This verse labels these men as prophets and teachers. Apparently, Saul and Barnabas were not yet apostles, which means a delegate or one sent forth.  

These men ministered to the Lord (verse 2). This is another verse where many overlook the subtle details that teach us deep things. For example, the word ministered has deeper meaning, but it becomes lost if we only focus on the second half of the verse. Ministered means to be a public servant, i.e. (by analogy) to perform religious or charitable functions (worship, obey, relieve). This definition is important because it shows us what these men were doing in Antioch.  

Remember that Barnabas went to Tarsus and brought Saul to help with the work in Antioch (Acts 11:22-26).  Saul was recruited to help teach the Grecians (Greek speaking Jews) who were converted by the scattered saints who travelled to Antioch (Acts 11:19-21). Barnabas and Saul spent a whole year teaching the Grecians the doctrine of God (see verse 26). They even help to organize a relief effort for those suffering from the effects of a drought in Judea (verses 27-30).  

This is why Luke uses the term ministered to the Lord. These men were serving those who belonged to Jesus Christ. They taught the new disciples. They delivered food to those in need. Jesus describes this service in Matt. 25:31-40 (emphasis on verse 40).  

The lesson to learn from this is we should be faithful like these men. Consider the persecution from Herod described in Acts 12. The apostle James was killed and Peter was arrested. Yet these men were faithfully serving other saints in the name of Jesus Christ despite all that was going on.  

We need to learn this lesson before the days get darker. We should faithfully serve the brethren now! We should make it our habit now rather than trying to figure it out when the Great Tribulation starts.  

Do not miss this important lesson shown in the first clause of Acts 13:2! Also note that these men fasted. Fasting is not merely some religious ritual done to feel more spiritual. Christians have regulated fasting to times of trouble. This should not be! We should learn to fast in times of peace and times of trouble.  

The spirit of fasting is summarized in Isa. 58:1-7. Please note what God says about fasting in verses 6 and 7. Study the original Hebrew for a full understanding. In summary, the spirit of fasting is about sacrificing in service to others. Fasting is not about being heard by God and getting your desires. God wants us to think about others and sacrifice our wants for the needs of others. Fasting is about character. Be sure to read Isa. 58:8-12 carefully.  

The five men described in Acts 13:1 lived in the spirit of ministry and fasting. Modern Christianity teaches the deceived that God is a genie who will grant them all their wishes. Yet the word of God says to serve others while disregarding personal desires (see Matt. 20:27-28).   

Sent Forth  

The second half of Acts 13:2 tells us that the Holy Spirit prompted these men to separate Barnabas and Saul for another body of work. These men needed to be separated for this purpose. To confirm this, the brethren fasted and prayed before doing anything else (verse 3). This is important to note. They decided to fast and pray rather the acting prematurely. It is also possible that these men did not want to split up after being together for an extended amount of time. Nevertheless, they sought God first before making any decisions.  

Christians would do well to behave in a similar manner. If you believe God is prompting you to do something, fast and pray first. Be certain that it is truly the prompting of God and not your own desires.  

After the matter was settled through fasting and praying, the group laid hands on Barnabas and Saul and sent them away as commanded (verse 3). Luke makes sure that we know that these men were truly sent forth by the Holy Spirit in verse 4. From here, readers of the book of Acts should compare the verses to a map at the back of the Bible to get a better understanding of the travels of Barnabas and Saul (see verses 4-6).  

While on the island of Cyprus, Barnabas, Saul, and Mark run into a false prophet named Barjesus. Barjesus means son of Jesus. This man was with another man named Sergius Paulus who was a government official.  Apparently, Paulus heard of Barnabas and Saul and wanted to hear their teachings for himself (verse 7). Saul and Barnabas must have had a great impact on the island through their teachings.  

Despite Paulus’ desire to hear the word of God, Barjesus opposed the teaching of Barnabas and Saul (verse 8). In this verse, we are given another name for this man called Barjesus. He was called Barjesus (the son of Jesus) and Elymas the sorcerer. Elymas means wizard or wise. It is interesting to consider that these men were preaching the word of God as taught by someone named Jesus while someone called the son of Jesus was opposing their teachings.  

Unfortunately, many do not see the parallel of this in modern Christianity. Those professing to be followers of Jesus Christ (Christians) are the ones who openly oppose His teachings. Those who teach what Jesus taught are called legalistic, fanatic, or cultish. Meanwhile, those who claim to bare His name engage in wizardry of all kinds, teaching a mystical version of Christianity developed through incorporating pagan beliefs.  

The lesson here is to only teach what Jesus Christ taught. Neither add to nor take away from His doctrine. Lastly, beware of those who claim to bare His name. The servants of God are known by what they do, not just what they say or call themselves.  

God may choose to send you forth. If He does, you must be ready to preach His message, not your own. Expect resistance from those who claim to be His disciples. Be steadfast in the work you are called to do. 

Saul is Known as Paul 

In Acts 13:9, we learned that Saul is also known as Paul. This might seem insignificant, but it is important. Names have meaning for a reason. Anciently, people were named for the meaning and not because their parents liked the name. The name Saul means desired. From this point in the book of Acts, Paul is no longer referred to as Saul. We are not told that his name was changed by God as others in the Bible. In this case, we are just told that Saul is also Paul.  

The name Paul means little. Is it a coincidence that a man used to do such great things would be called little? Sadly, we can only speculate on the matter because we are not given the details of why he was called Paul. Consider II Cor. 12:6-13. In these verses, Paul speaks of humility, and the great things revealed unto him. Again, it seems strange that a man used to do great things would be called little. It is likely Saul was called Paul to keep him humble. It is also possible the name change was to remove the stigma of his former participation in the persecution of the church of God.  

Nevertheless, we should consider the humility of a man who was used to do powerful work while signing his letters with a name meaning little. Humility is a trait that God requires all of us to develop. Consider the following verses: Luke 14:11; Luke 18:14; and James 4:10 

Responding to Opposition 

In Acts 13:9-11, we read of how Paul dealt with the opposition of Barjesus the sorcerer. There is a very important phrase that people ignore. The phrase is “filled with the Holy Ghost.” Why is this important? This phrase indicates that Paul did not respond in anger or hostility. It shows that the power of God moved in Paul to rebuke this false prophet who opposed the word of God.  

Sometimes, we take it upon ourselves to respond to opposition out of anger or frustration, but we must not do this. If the Holy Spirit moves you to respond, then do so. In other cases, we must learn to let the truth speak for itself.  

Read verses 10 and 11 carefully. Do those look like the words of a man? No! They look like words inspired by the Holy Spirit. Paul did not blind this wicked man. God blinded this man for his wickedness. As a result, Sergius Paulus believed (see verse 12).  

Again, Paul did not do this of his own accord as the televangelists do today. The Holy Spirit moved him to speak these words and fulfilled them. Sergius Paulus was astonished at the doctrine of the Lord, not Paul! 

Sermon in Antioch 

 In Acts 13:13-15, we read about how Paul and his company travelled to Antioch. We are told that John (Mark) went back to Jerusalem as they were leaving Cyprus and Paul went north to Pamphylia. From there, Paul travels to Antioch. This Antioch is said to be in Pisidia. This is not the same city as Antioch in Syria.  

While in Antioch, he enters a synagogue on the sabbath. Here, he presents the gospel (glad tidings). Let’s analyze the true gospel message taught by Paul and compare it to what men teach today.  

As typical of the sermons recorded in the book of Acts, we see Paul beginning his sermon with a plea to the people to give ear to what he has to say (verse 16). This was an earnest plea for those who respect God to listen diligently to what he was about to say to them. Paul did not start his sermon with some clever thing to say to get their attention. He merely made a genuine appeal to those who would receive the truth. Modern pastors have tried to reduce sermons to ear tickling. Rather than convicting the hearers, their sermons manipulate the emotions and appeal to the lusts of the flesh. Some sermons sound like a series of pick-up lines rather than an appeal to change for the better.  

Compare what you have heard from modern televangelists to Paul’s sermon. Paul immediately goes into a summary of Israel’s history just as Stephen did in Acts 7. (Acts 13:17-22). This history is critical. Paul presents the rebellion of Israel in their faces. He gives them an opportunity to acknowledge it and to turn from the ways of their ancestors. Every nation on earth has been in rebellion against God. This is the reason we need a savior. This is the reason we needed a sacrifice to cover our sins.  

After this brief history, Paul begins to talk about Jesus and John the baptist. Keep in mind that Jesus and John had large followings. There are several verses that explain how thousands came to see and learn from them. Nevertheless, the vast majority did not remain in the doctrine taught by Jesus and John. Additionally, these men of Antioch would have known about Jesus especially if they were in Jerusalem for any holy day.  

Read verses 22-25. Remember that the people saw John as a prophet (Matt. 21:25-26). Paul explains that this prophet taught that Jesus was greater than he was. He reminded them of John’s words. John taught the baptism of repentance. He also taught that Jesus was the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).  

Paul goes on to explain that Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of old (Acts 13:26-29). This is one detail modern preachers get right. It is a good thing to prove that Jesus fulfilled these prophecies, but we should not neglect to preach what Jesus preached like so many do. 

The Resurrection  

The resurrection of the dead is a doctrine that modern Christianity avoids. Pastors preach about the resurrection of Jesus but avoid what His resurrection means for us. Jesus was murdered but God raised Him from the dead (verse 30). There were witnesses to the fact that Jesus was murdered and was seen alive after being buried (verse 31).  

Please note verse 32. What was the promise made to the fathers?  Heb. 11:39-40; Tit 1:1-2; 1 John 2:25. 

Paul and the other apostles did not teach eternal life in heaven as the promise God made to the patriarchs. If this was truly the promise God made, then why does Hebrews say that the saints have not been made perfect? Why did Paul say that David has seen corruption as compared to Jesus Christ? (Acts 13:33-37). It’s because the saints are waiting for the resurrection of the dead as described in Rev. 20:4-6. Again, Heb. 11:39-40 says that the patriarchs will not be made perfect without us! 

In Acts 13: 38-39, Paul appears to be referring to the prophecy in Isa. 53:10-12. This prophecy proves that there was one to come who would take on the sins of many.  Paul wanted these men to know that Jesus fulfilled this. God provided for Himself a sinless sacrifice for the sins of man.  

Paul goes on to give a strong warning to the people in the synagogue (Acts 13:40-41). In this warning, Paul paraphrases Hab. 1:5. This prophecy specifically referred to God bringing judgment on the Judah through the Chaldeans. Paul was using this as an analogy. If we reject the truth and the need for repentance, then God will bring judgment upon us like He did to the house of Judah. This would be a strong warning to those who knew the history of Judah’s captivity in Babylon. This is a stern ending to a powerful sermon. 

Continue in the Grace of God 

 Acts 13:42 says that there were gentiles present and asked to be preached the same words on the next sabbath. Contrary to popular belief, the early church did not gather weekly on Sunday. Even the gentiles recognized this and asked for a sabbath meeting. In other places in the book of Acts, you can find Paul meeting with gentiles on the sabbath day. As stated several times, our behavior should conform to that of the early church members who were trained directly by the Lord Jesus Christ!!!  

At the end of the meeting, there were Jews and non-Jews (proselytes) who followed Paul and Barnabas (see verse 43). Paul and Barnabas persuaded this group to continue in the grace of God. The phrase grace of God is overly used but not understood. Why? Because professing Christianity does not understand grace (Eph. 2:8-10). The grace of God gives us a clean slate in which to walk in the good works He has ordained. Jesus talked about good works in all four gospels. God has not given us grace so that we can turn back unrighteousness. Grace makes repentance possible. Without the gift of forgiveness, we cannot turn to God’s way of life and be accepted into His family.  

No matter the state of the world, we must continue in the grace of God. This is about a way of life, not a singular event. When you truly understand the grace of God, it will inspire to live in a way that is pleasing to God the Father. 

You Have No Power Over Conversion 

A common misconception of the professing Christian world is that we ought to be trying to save souls. This is why many have tried to come up with clever ways of getting people to believe the gospel. This is not how Jesus or the apostles preached the gospel. They simply preached the message whenever the opportunity arose.  

Acts 13:44 show that the whole city came to hear the words of Barnabas and Paul on the next sabbath day. Read verses 45-50. A large group of the Jews rejected the truth and stirred up others to reject it. No doubt, satan was influencing these people to reject the word of God.  

The overlooked verse in the passage is verse 48. Please read it again. It tells us that as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. Have you ever considered this phrase? Luke did not write this in vain. The early disciples understood that not everyone who heard the gospel were ordained to eternal life, therefore, they would not believe. Jesus gave a parable about this matter (Matt. 13: 3-23). 

But what does this phrase mean? The Greek word translated as ordained means to arrange in an orderly manner, i.e. assign or dispose. Acts 2:47 says the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. This is the same premise. God has determined who he will call. God opens the eyes of whom He chooses while others remain blinded (see Rom. 11:7).  

Read Rom. 8:28-30. God has chosen who He will call in this age. All men are not being called in the firstfruits of God’s kingdom. The word predestinate means to limit in advance. God has limited who will be in His church. This is not to say that God will not call the rest of mankind. All of mankind shall be called at the time of God’s choosing; however, the church of God is reserved for those who God will call before the end of this age. The rest of mankind will be resurrected after the millennial reign of Jesus Christ (Rev, 20:5,11-15.) Satan will be removed and no longer allowed to blind mankind from the truth of God (Rev. 20:1-4,7-10.) 

The lesson is: God does the conversion. Your duty is to speak the truth. You have no power to convince anyone of the truth. You have no power to open the minds of those deceived by satan. God will open the mind of whomever He chooses. Leave the conversion of people to Him! 

Barnabas and Paul knew this, so they shook of the dust of their like Jesus taught (Luke 9:5; Acts 13:51.) Nevertheless, those who God did called were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. To God be the glory!!! Acts 13:52