Responding to the Gospel

Bradley Johnson • June 10, 2023

What makes sharing the Gospel so difficult? 

We know we are supposed to be sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others, yet we often hesitate to talk about him. We sense a lack of courage or confusion about what to say. We’re unsure of their reaction, so we find it easier to keep quiet. In Acts 13:44-52 the Apostle Paul was given an opportunity to preach the Gospel in Antioch, Pisidia (Acts 13:14), and there were multiple responses to his ministry. Some people welcomed the Gospel and were saved. Others became jealous and opposed his ministry. Even though the Gospel was opposed God brought fruit from Paul’s sermon and prepared the new believers for opposition. Since he depended on God, Paul’s ministry also took a significant turn. This passage encourages us to remain faithful to the Gospel and leave the results to God. After reading the text, consider the following questions.

  • Why did the Jewish leaders oppose Paul?
  • Why were these believers rejoicing even in the face of opposition?
  • How did God use the opposition to direct Paul’s ministry?
  • What are ways our ministry is opposed today?

  • Read Acts 13:44-52

    Paul and Barnabas at Antioch in Pisidia continued...

    44 The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him. 46 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, 


                      “ ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, 

          that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ” 


    48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. 



    The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ac 13:44–52.