Paul's Missionary Journeys - Acts 13-20 (BibleProject)

Paul's Missionary Journeys in Acts 13-20 detail the Apostle Paul's efforts to spread the Gospel throughout the Roman Empire, highlighting the growth of the early church, the challenges faced, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The BibleProject emphasizes how these journeys illustrate the church's expansion and the inclusion of Gentiles in God's salvation plan.

Key Events in Acts 13-20:

1. First Missionary Journey (Acts 13-14):

   • Commissioning (Acts 13:1-3): The church in Antioch sets apart Paul and Barnabas for missionary work through prayer and fasting. They are sent out by the Holy Spirit.
   • Cyprus (Acts 13:4-12): In Cyprus, they preach in synagogues and confront the magician Elymas, who is struck blind. This miracle leads the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, to believe in the Lord.
   • Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:13-52): In Pisidian Antioch, Paul preaches a powerful sermon, recounting Israel’s history and proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah. The Gentiles respond positively, leading to opposition from Jewish leaders.
   • Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe (Acts 14:1-20): They face opposition in Iconium and perform miracles in Lystra. After healing a lame man, the locals mistake them for gods. Paul is later stoned and left for dead but continues his mission.

2. Return to Antioch (Acts 14:21-28): After establishing churches, Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch, reporting how God opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

3. The Jerusalem Council (Acts 15):

   • Debate on Gentile Believers: A debate arises about whether Gentile converts must follow Jewish law. The apostles gather in Jerusalem to discuss the matter.
   • Resolution: Peter affirms that salvation is through grace, not the law. The council sends a letter to Gentile believers, encouraging them to abstain from certain practices while affirming their inclusion in the church.

4. Second Missionary Journey (Acts 15:36-18:22):

   • Paul and Silas (Acts 15:36-41): After a disagreement with Barnabas, Paul takes Silas and strengthens churches in Syria and Cilicia.
   • Philippi (Acts 16:6-40): Paul receives a vision calling him to Macedonia. In Philippi, he converts Lydia and casts out a spirit from a slave girl, leading to their imprisonment. An earthquake frees them, resulting in the jailer's conversion.
   • Thessalonica and Berea (Acts 17:1-15): In Thessalonica, they face opposition. In Berea, they are received eagerly, but trouble follows from Thessalonica.
   • Athens (Acts 17:16-34): Paul preaches in Athens, engaging with philosophers. Some mock him, while others believe.

5. Corinth (Acts 18:1-17): In Corinth, Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla, preaches, and receives encouragement from the Lord. He stays for a year and a half, establishing the church.

6. Third Missionary Journey (Acts 18:23-21:14):

   • Ephesus (Acts 19): Paul finds disciples who had not received the Holy Spirit and performs miracles. Opposition arises, leading to a riot among silversmiths.
   • Journey to Jerusalem (Acts 20:1-16): After encouraging the believers, Paul travels to various regions. Despite warnings of danger, he is determined to reach Jerusalem.
   • Farewell to the Ephesian Elders (Acts 20:17-38): Paul meets the elders from Ephesus in Miletus, urging them to remain faithful. He shares his experiences and warns of future challenges.

BibleProject Themes:

• Expansion of the Church: Paul's journeys illustrate the church’s growth from a small group in Jerusalem to a global movement.
• Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit guides and empowers Paul, enabling him to preach boldly and perform miracles.
• Inclusion of Gentiles: The acceptance of Gentiles into the faith signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to bless all nations.
• Challenges and Perseverance: Paul faces persecution and danger yet remains committed to his mission.