How does Acts 13:46 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Stage • Matthew 28:19-20 records Jesus’ final marching orders: “make disciples of all nations.” • Acts 13:46 shows Paul and Barnabas actively carrying out that charge, pivoting from unbelieving Jews to Gentiles—“all nations” in real time. Clear Continuity of Mission • Great Commission: universal scope from the outset. • Acts 13:46: first recorded moment when the missionary team intentionally widens the recipient circle, proving the Commission’s reach. • Acts 1:8 foreshadowed this widening (“to the ends of the earth”); Acts 13 demonstrates it. The Priority of the Jew and Inclusion of the Nations • Romans 1:16—“to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” • Paul applies that pattern: synagogue first, then Gentiles (Acts 13:14-46). • The rejection by some Jews does not negate Israel’s role; it simply triggers the next step of the Commission—“all nations.” Authority and Boldness in Proclamation • Jesus in Matthew 28:18: “All authority has been given to Me.” • Paul and Barnabas “answered them boldly” (Acts 13:46), relying on Christ’s authority to confront unbelief and redirect efforts. Teaching and Obedience • Jesus: “teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). • Paul’s sermon in Acts 13:16-41 models thorough teaching—history, prophecy, resurrection, call to repentance—inviting obedience to the gospel. Promise of Presence • “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • Acts narrative repeatedly confirms Christ’s presence through the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:2-4, 9) guiding the missionaries’ decisions, including the Gentile turn. Personal Application Today • Expect both openness and resistance; keep moving forward, just as Paul did. • Maintain gospel priority but never limit its audience—God’s plan embraces every ethnicity. • Lean on Christ’s authority and presence; speak boldly, teach thoroughly, trust Scripture’s power (Isaiah 55:11). |
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