Paul and Barnabas were not simply nomadic preachers; they were actually builders (1Co 3:10). They travelled not just to win converts and move on, but to see the kingdom of heaven firmly established on the earth. Hence, having reached Derbe
Culture clash
In the early centuries after his resurrection, Jesus’ kingdom grew remarkably. The writer of Acts – Luke – shows us the foundation for that spectacular growth. Key to his tale is Paul, an apostle not from the original twelve (1Co
The battle of Iconium
Jesus was a divisive figure. One of the big factors in the negative reactions he provoked was his pointing out of others’ lifestyles and attitudes which had to change. That can really wind people up, especially when they expect the
Make me smile
Joy is found throughout the New Testament. Yet it often occurs in situations which involve pain or trouble, including our passage. So what is this joy and how can we experience it? Paul has preached Jesus as resurrected saviour to
Lessons from a synagogue
Across 2000 years, the Christian church has told the good news of Jesus Christ. It’s done so in a wide variety of contexts and ways. Here we have a very early example in Luke’s brief summary of the apostle Paul’s
Fully rescued
Stories of rescues have a peculiar power for us. Dramatic ones are often reported widely. One of the famous rescues in the Bible – Noah’s – has been replayed in countless talks, books and songs. Somehow those who survive help
Better call me Paul
This report of Saul’s first missionary journey has some of the elements of a typical church/mission report today: an outreach activity and an interesting conversation. On the other hand, linking the Spirit to the blinding of a man and a
A new adventure
First there was one church, launched in Jerusalem and expanded until it stretched across the ancient land of Israel (Ac 9:31). Then a second church was founded in the city of Antioch in the land of Syria: an independent church
Hearing loss
The death of Herod Agrippa is the tragic tale of a king who will not listen. It takes place at a scary time in old Israel’s history, roughly 17 years after Jesus first appeared in public as the king whom
Peter is no angel
Though a solemn chapter about a murderous king and his downfall, there are also comic elements here which help to expose the foolish arrogance of Herod through mockery (Ps 2:4,5). However, the chapter has other themes too, including an emphasis