Acts chapter 13 describes the beginning of Paul’s first missionary journey. The chapter opens with the Holy Spirit directing the church in Antioch to set apart Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for missionary work. They travel to Cyprus, where they preach the word of God and confront Elymas the sorcerer, who opposes them. Paul rebukes Elymas, who is struck blind, leading the proconsul Sergius Paulus to believe.

From there, Paul and his companions sail to Perga in Pamphylia and then to Pisidian Antioch, where Paul delivers a powerful sermon in the synagogue. He recounts Israel’s history, proclaims Jesus as the promised Savior, and emphasizes justification through faith in Him rather than the law of Moses. Some Jews reject the message, but many Gentiles gladly receive it. As opposition grows, Paul and Barnabas declare that they will now turn to the Gentiles, fulfilling the prophecy that salvation would reach “to the ends of the earth.”

The chapter ends with the apostles being expelled from the region, yet the disciples remain filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.