Introduction

Paul's First Missionary Journey marks a pivotal moment in the spread of Christianity beyond the Jewish communities into the Gentile world. This journey, which took place around AD 46-48, is documented in the Book of Acts, specifically in chapters 13 and 14. It represents the early Church's commitment to the Great Commission, as instructed by Jesus Christ, to spread the Gospel to all nations.

The Church at Antioch

The journey begins in Antioch of Syria, a significant center for early Christianity. The church in Antioch was diverse and vibrant, comprising both Jews and Gentiles. It was here that believers were first called "Christians" (Acts 11:26). The Holy Spirit played a crucial role in the mission's inception, as the leaders of the church were engaged in worship and fasting. "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them'" (Acts 13:2).

Commissioning and Departure

In obedience to the Holy Spirit's directive, the church laid hands on Barnabas and Saul (Paul) and sent them off. This act of commissioning underscores the importance of communal discernment and support in missionary endeavors. Accompanied by John Mark, they set sail for Cyprus, Barnabas's homeland, marking the beginning of their missionary journey.

Ministry in Cyprus

Upon arrival in Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues, a pattern that Paul would follow throughout his missions. Traveling across the island to Paphos, they encountered the Roman proconsul, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man who sought to hear the word of God. However, they faced opposition from Elymas the sorcerer, whom Paul rebuked, resulting in Elymas's temporary blindness. Witnessing this, Sergius Paulus believed, "astonished at the teaching about the Lord" (Acts 13:12).

Journey to Pisidian Antioch

From Cyprus, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John Mark departed from them. They continued to Pisidian Antioch, where Paul delivered a powerful sermon in the synagogue, recounting Israel's history and proclaiming Jesus as the promised Savior. His message resonated with many, both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles, leading to a significant response. However, Jewish leaders, filled with jealousy, incited persecution against Paul and Barnabas, expelling them from the region.

Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe

Undeterred, they traveled to Iconium, where they again preached in the synagogue. A great number of Jews and Greeks believed, but opposition arose, leading to a divided city. Fleeing to Lystra and Derbe in Lycaonia, they continued their ministry. In Lystra, Paul healed a man lame from birth, which led the crowd to mistakenly identify them as gods. Paul and Barnabas vehemently rejected this, directing the people to the living God. Despite their efforts, they faced severe persecution, with Paul being stoned and left for dead. Miraculously, he survived and continued preaching.

Return to Antioch

After making many disciples, Paul and Barnabas retraced their steps, strengthening the churches and appointing elders in each. They emphasized perseverance in faith, stating, "We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God" (Acts 14:22). Upon returning to Antioch, they reported all that God had done through them, particularly how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

Significance

Paul's First Missionary Journey was instrumental in establishing the early Church's mission to the Gentiles. It demonstrated the power of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering believers to overcome opposition and spread the Gospel. This journey laid the foundation for subsequent missions and the expansion of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.