Page 68 - Acts Student Textbook

"you will be blind" These powerful descriptive terms of evil and rebellion by which Paul characterizes
this man and the form of his temporary divine punishment may reflect Paul's own previous life. He
looks back now and sees himself in this Jewish rebelius teacher false teacher and his manipulation
(cf. 9:8).

How did those around Paul view his words?

They treated Paul’s words as God’s words, with respect and reverence, that is why Luke tells us
in13:12 that Sergius Paulus "believed when he saw what happened" This is the same Greek word
(pisteuō, the NOUN can be translated as believe, faith, or trust) used throughout the NT for genuine
belief. This proconsul responded to the gospel message. One man's eyes were closed (literally); one
man's eyes were opened (metaphorically). This is the mystery of belief and unbelief (cf. John 9).

What were the actions of John Mark at Perga?

What is sure is that - at Perga Mark left the group (13:13). We are not told why, however apparently
he did not have good Reason (v15). This event later became a source of strife between Barnabas and
Paul so that they parted company on the next trip (chap.15). Later, however, Mark was again in
Paul’s favor (2 Tim. 4:11), and eventually wrote the gospel of Mark. This shows that Christians may
often make mistakes in life, perhaps especially in younger years, but can still become useful to the
Lord if they make the proper corrections.

How does Paul preach in Pisidian Antioch and how was his message received?

Pisidian Antioch (13:13-52): Roman colony; chief civil, military city of S. Galatia.

Here is a typical synagogue service: (i) prayers; (ii) two Scripture readings: Torah and Prophets; (iii)
address by a suitable member or, in this case, credentialed visitors (cf. Luke 4:15-21).

Observe Paul’s sermon!

How does it sound? Do you see consistency with Peter and Stephen? Always, when they were
preaching to the Jews, they began with the OT Scriptures. The gospel was so well received that the
Jews began to contradict it (13:44, 45). Paul’s sermon stirred up such great interest that the next
week nearly the whole city came together to hear God’s word. But the Jews were upset when they
observed the large crowds and the success of these prophets in getting a following. They were
envious, just like the Jewish rulers had envied Jesus’ success (Matt. 27:18). They determined to
hinder the message by contradicting and opposing what Paul was saying. And as it was with Jesus,
the contradiction was soon followed by open persecution. Paul later recalled this persecution in 2
Timothy 3:11.

67