ERICA WIGGENHORN

INTRODUCTION

Ministry leaders across the country have told us they are seeking more in-depth Bible studies, and we have listened! Here is a sample of one of our new Bible studies designed to equip and inspire women to dive deeper into God’s Word. Studies are ideal for individuals or groups of various sizes, and come with free downloadable study tools, resources, and leadership materials.

© 2017 by
ERICA WIGGENHORN

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews.

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Map on pages 254-255 copyright © 2009 The Moody Bible Institute of Chicago.

Edited by Pam Pugh

Cover Design: Dean Renninger and Erik M. Peterson

Interior Design: Erik M. Peterson

Author photo: Suzanne Busta

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Names: Wiggenhorn, Erica, author.

Title: The unexplainable church : reigniting the mission of the early believers : a 10 week Bible study of Acts 13-28 / Erica Wiggenhorn.

Description: Chicago : Moody Publishers, 2017. | Includes bibliographical references.

Identifiers: LCCN 2016059262 (print) | LCCN 2017018633 (ebook) | ISBN 9780802495495 | ISBN 9780802417428

Subjects: LCSH: Bible. Acts, XIII-XXVIII--Textbooks.

Classification: LCC BS2626 (ebook) | LCC BS2626 .W539 2017 (print) | DDC 226.6/0071--dc23

LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2016059262

ISBN: 978-0-8024-1742-8

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To Eliana—“My God has answered”—indeed you are an answer to our prayers! May you share the Answer in your generation.

To Jonathan—“Jehovah has given”—indeed you are a gift to us! And may you share the gift of Jesus with your generation.

Your father and I will have no greater joy than to see the Unexplainable Church living on through you.

A DIVINE INVITATION 

“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

This study begins with an invitation. A divine call. A whisper from the Holy Spirit in the depth of our souls that says, “Separate yourself for the special work I have planned for you.” There is a flutter in our hearts as He bids us to become one with His purpose. An excitement over what grand adventure may await us. Then questions. Possibly fear. Uncertainty and insecurity creep in, interrupting the sacred stirring within. To which voice will we listen? Which call will we heed?

I’m getting ahead of myself. Acts 13 is not the moment Paul and Barnabas first received their call. Their story began many years and pages back in Scripture. However, the bid to begin the work comes now. Long before this moment, Paul and Barnabas made a decision. They chose to surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit in their lives, no matter where He might send them or what He might ask them to do. This moment of decision occurred first, an acceptance of the divine invitation. Once they accepted, the Holy Spirit guided them into relationship with the right members of His church to adequately prepare and equip them. After this time, they were ready to begin the work.

God accomplished their preparation through the study of the Scriptures, development of daily disciplines, the witness of the Spirit’s work in and through the lives of other believers, fellowship with Christ Himself, and—this is key—through the other members of the Christian church. For Paul and Barnabas to begin their missionary journey with confidence, they had to resolutely understand they were not being sent out alone. The early church was going before them in prayer, standing alongside them in faith, and following behind them and awaiting their return home in joyful anticipation. The unexplainable church in Antioch and Jerusalem was inextricably tied to the invitation given to Paul and Barnabas.

And the church continues to be inseparably tied to every divine call since. The wonder of the Holy Spirit is that while He calls us individually to live unexplainable lives, He works collectively through the body, bidding the realization of the unexplainable church. The early believers understood their interconnectedness to one another. They found it inconceivable to fulfill the call of Christ apart from each other as members of the Christian church at large.

You, dear one, have this divine invitation as well.

The Holy Spirit has chosen you for a special work. He bids you to become one with Him. But you cannot do it alone. You were not meant to figure it all out by yourself. Hopefully this truth will soothe some of your fears and insecurities. You and I were meant to be threads within the beautiful tapestry called the unexplainable church, the body of Christ Himself. Knitted and knotted together, indivisibly tied to our brothers and sisters around the globe, yet each one individually fulfilling their own special work.

The early believers provide ten lessons to help us understand this fully. These lessons equip and prepare us to begin the work. My prayer is that you will accept your own divine invitation. You will discover that you are not alone and will believe in God’s faithfulness to provide all you need to be able to fulfill the call He has placed on you—and in that you will rest, listening in your stillness. It seems counterintuitive, I know. But from the beginning of the story we learn God’s perfect timing in all things, His clear communication when to act, and His merciful provision once the time for work begins.

As we open the book of Acts beginning in chapter 13, Paul and Barnabas are called to their first missionary journey. Initiated by the Holy Spirit, the church at Antioch comes alongside them, confirming the call. As we step into their sandals and experience the wonder and work of the Holy Spirit on these dramatic pages of Scripture, you and I are invited to take our own journey. As we travel alongside these men, we will be challenged to open our hearts and minds to listen to our own divine invitation, surrender to the Spirit’s bidding, and allow the awakening in our hearts to become a flame of obedience to whatever He may call us to do.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

—Ephesians 2:10

MAKING THE MOST OF THIS STUDY 

“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.”

—the apostle Paul, 1 Corinthians 15:10

I have been meditating on this verse while writing this study. How does the grace of God work harder within us? How do we promote its fruit in our lives? Can we accept the grace of God as an intellectual assent and not experience any of its effects? Many Christians rest in the assurance of God’s grace to take them to heaven, yet experience little of its ramifications in their daily lives. Or they yearn for more. There is a stirring in their soul, ushering them to experience the fullness of God’s grace in their lives. But how?

This fifty-day journey is an invitation to walk alongside a man who never got over the awe and wonder of God’s grace. For years he had sought God’s favor through a religion of works, spiritual disciplines, knowledge, and service. Then he met Jesus, and after approximately a decade of understanding Jesus as the Messiah, he finally came to the realization of the fullness of His grace. And he was never the same again. Rather than resting on a bed of laurels at the gift of grace he had been given, he strove even harder to ensure that God’s grace to him was not in vain. He accepted the divine invitation and most likely met his Savior with a clear conscience and no regrets.

My prayer in studying this portion of Scripture is this: May God reignite the awe and wonder of His grace within each of us. As we pursue Him with everything we have, may His grace abound so lavishly over us that we will never be the same. May we race with anticipation to accept our divine invitation and discover all that God has for us in living out the mission of the unexplainable church. And may the world never be the same.

The story of Acts 13–28 holds this truth regarding the unexplainable church: whatever comes against it, the gospel prevails. The story of the unexplainable church heralds the atoning power of Christ and the power of His gospel over all sin and death. Let me say that again: all sin. It prevails against injustice, racism, greed, evil, jealousy, economic disparity, corruption, and hate—along with every sin that seeks to destroy it. The one who conquered sin and death through the tremendous tragedy of the cross and the triumph of the resurrection leads the unexplainable church both now and in the ages to come. Our mission as believers in Jesus is to spread the message that God’s grace is greater than all. And for others to see its working in our lives.

So if victory is so certain, then where do you and I fit into the church? Why the divine invitation to participate in its preservation and expansion? Because it is God’s very design that, through fellowship and service within this unexplainable church, God’s grace wields its effects over our lives. Our divine invitation is issued through the church, carried out by the aid and fellowship of the church, and results in the strengthening and spread of the gospel message. Jesus Himself said that the world would know He came from God when His church actively loved one another. The divine invitation is inextricably tied to the unexplainable church.

The early believers held one mission: sharing the grace available through Jesus Christ. This mission united people of different races, religious practices, political affiliations, ethnic traditions, and social classes. This mission spread across the ancient world in a quarter of a century. This mission, the kingdom of Jesus Christ, turned the world upside down. And it is our mission today: to share the powerful, life-altering grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Will we accept it?

So here is my invitation. Will you join me on this fifty-day journey asking God to awaken within us an awe and wonder of Him, His Word, and His grace? May God reignite within us a fresh vitality as we travel through the expansion of the unexplainable church, witness the power and transformation in the lives of the early believers, and ponder our own divine invitations. May we, like Paul, never be the same. With God’s Word, you hold within your hand a divine invitation, etched before time began, and sealed with the shed blood of our King. He bids you to come. May we stand alongside one another in this fifty-day journey, as we encourage one another with trembling hands, maybe out of excitement or possibly fear, to muster the courage to open it.

To maximize the learning time and allow you to listen to God, begin your study time with prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to you. Also, try to study on a daily basis. This allows ample time to contemplate the content and develop a habit of getting alone with God regularly, strengthening your relationship with Him.

Beginning on Day 2, each day’s session starts with a thematic title and Bible passage that will take you about twenty to thirty minutes to complete. Begin your study time by reading the passage in its entirety. Read the daily passage aloud. I’ve used the English Standard Version as my main text, but you may of course use any version you’re comfortable with. If you find yourself confused by a question’s wording, referencing the English Standard Version for greater clarity should prove helpful. Reading the daily verses will offer a basic overview of that day’s Scripture and story before we break it down in greater depth. The more you familiarize yourself with the verses, the more likely you will remember them and allow their truths to penetrate your heart. You can also tap any underlined verse references throughout the book, which will pull up the passage as a pop-up (in ESV).

Making your way through each daily assignment, you will encounter several questions in blue. These questions can help you stop, pray, collect your thoughts, and write out answers. Writing responses prompts you to slow down and grapple with the Scriptures, and apply them to your life. Bible study is not meant to be a task to complete. Instead, it is an avenue for building a relationship with God. Invest time in your relationship with Him.

Some of the blue questions can also be used in small group discussions. The leader’s guide for this study indicates which questions work best for groups. You can access this free resource at www.ericawiggenhorn.com.

A bonus for you, Deeper Discoveries, has some extra material that corresponds with each week’s study. This is an optional component in which you can dig more deeply into the Scriptures by making cultural connections with the cities in which the Acts narrative takes place. This is another free resource that is especially helpful for those leading or facilitating a small group through this study. It is also available at www.ericawiggenhorn.com.

I am praying for you as you walk this journey. I pray that God will speak to you, transform you by grace and equip you with the truth of His Word. I would love to hear your discoveries, so please visit me at www.ericawiggenhorn.com and tell me about your progress and insights.

Praying for you,

Erica

WEEK ONE 

Day 1: The Unexplainable Church

Day 2: Ready, Set, Go!

Day 3: Blind Disbelief

Day 4: There’s No Place Like Home

Day 5: Women of Influence

WEEK 1 | DAY 1 

THE UNEXPLAINABLE CHURCH 

VARIOUS PASSAGES IN ACTS 

In case you weren’t with us for An Unexplainable Life: Recovering the Wonder and Devotion of the Early Church—or maybe you were with us but it’s been a while—let’s start with a brief history lesson. Acts 13 began after the church had been in existence for a period of at least ten years and possibly closer to twenty. We were first introduced to Barnabas back in Acts 4. Neither an apostle nor a deacon, this humble believer became a key player in the growth and expansion of the early church. During pivotal moments, Barnabas came to the rescue and brought peace into difficult circumstances.

Read Acts 4:32–37 and record every detail you discover about Barnabas:

After Stephen suffered martyrdom under Saul’s supervision in Acts 7, the believers fled Jerusalem and scattered throughout the Roman Empire. In an effort to find them, return them to Jerusalem, and have them suffer the same trial and sentencing as Stephen, a man named Saul set out from Jerusalem to Damascus. On this journey, Saul received his divine invitation to follow Jesus Christ and become His witness to the Gentiles.

Read Acts 9:1–19 and consider the following:

What question did Jesus ask Saul?

What command did Jesus give to him?

What additional information about Saul’s calling is given to Ananias?

How did Saul, who became known by his Gentile name Paul, later describe this call in Galatians 1:15–16?

Acts 9:26–30 explains how Saul and Barnabas first became acquainted with each other. Describe the circumstances below:

According to Acts 11:19–26, how did Paul and Barnabas later become reunited?

Describe in your own words what you think their relationship may have been like:

The church at Antioch was the first international church. Up to this point, it was Jews who primarily comprised the church, along with some Gentile proselytes. Antioch was the first church to admit Gentile converts—and it was located in the third largest city in the Roman Empire, second only to Alexandria and Rome. The city served as the capital of the province of Syria and was located about a dozen miles inland from the Mediterranean Sea along the Orontes River, making it a large commercial center. Populated by people from varying ethnic and religious backgrounds, the citizens of Antioch acquiesced to the expression of new ideas more readily than other less cosmopolitan cities.

How did the Antiochan believers express their desire for unity with their fellow Palestinian believers in Acts 11:27–30?

After this trip to Jerusalem, Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch, where our story is ready to begin. Both men who faithfully served the Lord for over a decade will now be set apart for a special work, bringing the gospel into global expansion and turning the world upside down.

32 Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. 33 And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. 34 There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold 35 and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. 36 Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, 37 sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

(ESV)

1 But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” 7 The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” 11 And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, 12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” 13 But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” 15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” 17 So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; 19 and taking food, he was strengthened.

(ESV)

15 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, 16 was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone;

(ESV)

26 And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus. 28 So he went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 And he spoke and disputed against the Hellenists. But they were seeking to kill him. 30 And when the brothers learned this, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

(ESV)

19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.

(ESV)

27 Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 And one of them named Agabus stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius). 29 So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. 30 And they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.

(ESV)

WEEK 1 | DAY 2 

READY, SET, GO! 

ACTS 13:1–3 

I so often feel like the timeline of my life could be effectively described by the adage “Hurry up and wait!” Can you relate? I feel rushed day to day, yet I’m also filled with hopes and dreams in the depth of my soul to which God whispers, “Hold on, child. Not just yet.” Prayers I long to have answered. Trials I’d like to have over. Chapters I’d like to have closed. Waiting, still waiting. I wonder how Paul felt during this expanse of time since Jesus first appeared to him on the road to Damascus. Prone to emotion and the influence of circumstances, did he ever waver in his belief? As the years passed by, did he begin to doubt God would ever give him the green light to go to the Gentiles?

I find it interesting that we are told virtually nothing as to what Paul did during this time. Other than his trip to Arabia where he received instruction from Christ Himself (see Galatians 1:11–18), we only know that he went home to Tarsus. Then Barnabas showed up and invited him to come to Antioch to help disciple the Gentile believers who needed instruction in how to live. Did Paul feel ready at that point? Was he excited or afraid?

I love the fact that God had Paul minister alongside Barnabas for a solid year before they set out together on their first missionary journey. After being separated for so long, God knit their hearts together through service in a thriving church before sending them into difficult circumstances. God’s ways and timing are so unexplainably perfect. During that year, the church at Antioch also received incredible teaching and instruction from these two heroes of the faith. This surely prepared the church at large to pray for Paul and Barnabas as well as continue to thrive in their absence.

Read Acts 13:1–3 aloud and answer the following questions:

What two specific roles of leadership are mentioned?

List the names of the five men in these roles and anything else we are told about their background or ethnicity:

In what two activities were they participating when the Holy Spirit spoke?

What did He say?

Three actions take place in verse 3. Write them out below in their order of occurrence:

The diversity of the church in Antioch is reflected in its leadership. We have already been introduced to Barnabas, a Jew from the tribe of Levi, resident of Cyprus, who therefore presumably spoke Greek along with Hebrew. Paul was a Greek-speaking Jew who grew up in Tarsus and became a Pharisee well versed in the Old Testament writings and fluent in Hebrew. Calling Simeon Niger suggests this man was dark-skinned, an African, or both. Lucius also came from Cyrene. Manaen, identified as having an intimate relationship with Herod the tetrarch, presumably was well-educated in Hebrew as well as current philosophies and religions common to the first century—possibly due to having been raised in the royal court along with Herod.

Togetherness is implied in their worship and fasting. This emphasizes the unity among this leadership. They were also not too busy carrying out the work of the Lord to gather together and worship the one for whom they so tirelessly labored. What a wonderful lesson for us today in our busy lives! It was this practice of worship, along with fasting, that opened the door for the Holy Spirit to speak.

Do you find it difficult to cease attending to your unending duties in order to gather with other believers solely for the purpose of worship? How so?

On a practical level, what are some things from which we could “fast” in order to allow more time in our lives for worship?

Why do you suppose the Holy Spirit chose to reveal His will in this moment of worship rather than in the midst of their labor?

Notice that it was after their worship and the Holy Spirit speaking that they prayed. We are always wise to seek confirmation when we feel we have received a directive from God. After the revelation of the Spirit’s will, they quite possibly interceded for Paul and Barnabas, asking for wisdom, guidance, and preparation for this special work.

Why might the Holy Spirit have chosen to communicate His plans to the church collectively rather than directly to Paul and Barnabas individually?

How might you have felt if you were Paul and Barnabas at this moment? Or one of the other three men?

God prepared Paul and Barnabas for this moment. They were ready. Through the unity of the leadership at Antioch, they had the prayer covering, the financial provision, and the blessing for their journey. Now, ten years or so after Saul’s conversion as he waited for God to put His call into action, the Spirit said to Paul, “Go!”

1 Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 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.” 3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.

(ESV)

WEEK 1 | DAY 3 

BLIND DISBELIEF 

ACTS 13:4–12 

Up to this point in the book of Acts, authentication of the gospel message was accompanied by miracles. It is no wonder, then, that we see Paul perform a miracle. If either Paul or Barnabas harbored any doubt that God was directing their journey, their supernatural ability over demonic power immediately squelched it. This passage of Scripture records Paul’s first miracle.

After traveling the nearly fifteen miles from Antioch to Seleucia, Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark boarded a ship and headed for the island of Cyprus. Their first stop on the island was the city of Salamis.

Where did they preach the gospel within this city?

Where did they go next?

Whom did they encounter there and what was his occupation? Who specifically sought his services?

How is Sergius Paulus described?

From a practical point of view, why would Elymas oppose Paul and Barnabas?

What happened to Elymas as a result of his opposition?

What effect did Paul’s miracle have on Sergius Paulus?

Roman citizens were appointed as proconsuls by the Senate. Often they were members of the Roman Senate themselves and well educated. This position is contrasted with procurators who were appointed by the emperor. Why he employed Bar-Jesus, or Elymas, is unknown, but it appears other high-ranking Roman officers employed sorcerers or magicians during this time, presumably to give them advice and to predict the future. In spite of his superstitious nature, Sergius Paulus is still called an “intelligent” man.

Interestingly, it was through the miracle of Elymas’s blindness that Sergius Paulus came to see and believe the message of Paul and Barnabas.

While his name, Bar-Jesus, means “son of salvation,” Paul called him a “son of the devil.” Paul doesn’t make this accusation until after he “looked intently at him,” thereby implying Paul’s discernment into his heart by the power of the Holy Spirit. I think Paul’s gift of discernment, along with his ability to perform miracles, is meant to alert us to his new role as an apostle. This special gift of discernment is also attributed to Peter on more than one occasion.

Describe Peter’s exercise of this gift in Acts 5:1–11:

Describe it again in Acts 8:14–24:

How does Paul describe his apostleship in 1 Corinthians 15:10?

From this moment forward, we see Paul step into the fullness of his calling as apostle to the Gentiles. Remember, it had been several years since he had been called Christ’s “chosen instrument to go to the Gentiles” (Acts 9:15). Paul had learned much, labored intently, and sought to remain faithful to Christ. The moment when he was struck with sudden blindness is brought into crystal-clear clarity. Paul is granted the ability to perform miracles and see into the hearts of men. He has the gifts of an apostle. And Paul’s first convert on his inaugural missionary journey? A Gentile.

I find it so beautiful that God allowed Barnabas to witness this monumental fulfillment of Paul’s divine call. After all, Barnabas was the first believer to bring Paul into the fold in Jerusalem. In faith he embraced the chief murderer of the early Christian church, believing God was able to change the vilest of hearts. Then again it was Barnabas who set out on the hundred-mile trek from Tarsus to Antioch (Acts 11:25–26) to bring Paul to the first Gentile church. Now, after his faithful encouragement to Paul and belief in his testimony, God allows Barnabas to witness firsthand the fullness of Paul’s calling.

Do you have someone in your life for whom you have been waiting a long time to see the work of God fulfilled? Maybe this is occurring in your own life. How does Paul’s testimony encourage you?

May we, and those whom we have faithfully served, see, believe, and be astonished at the teaching of the Lord!

Note: It’s certainly possible Paul was already ministering to Gentile believers in Tarsus before arriving in Antioch. We cannot definitively know this one way or another; however, this passage in Acts 13 is Scripture’s first account of Paul functioning fully as an apostle with the ability to perform miracles and exercise discernment.

For more about Antioch in Syria, see Deeper Discoveries at ericawiggenhorn.com.

1 But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, 2 and with his wife’s knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? 4 While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God.” 5 When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it. 6 The young men rose and wrapped him up and carried him out and buried him.

7 After an interval of about three hours his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter said to her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much.” And she said, “Yes, for so much.” 9 But Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 Immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in they found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.

(ESV)

14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.” 24 And Simon answered, “Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.”

(ESV)

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.

(ESV)

WEEK 1 | DAY 4 

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME 

ACTS 13:13–43 

Traveling to Cyprus meant familiar territory for Barnabas. This island was his home, and he no doubt knew many people there. Paul and Barnabas then sailed to Asia Minor, the region that included Paul’s hometown of Tarsus, though that town was not included in their trip. Rather, they traveled a hundred miles north from the coast through mountainous terrain to reach Pisidian Antioch (a different Antioch than Antioch in Syria). John Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem before completing this arduous journey. Upon arrival, Paul and Barnabas once again entered a synagogue to share the good news of Jesus Christ with their Jewish brothers.

What did the synagogue rulers invite Paul and Barnabas to do?

What two groups of people did Paul address? See verses 16 and 26.

What did he admonish them to do?

Carefully read through Acts 13:17–23 and circle every action word (verb). Draw an arrow back to the person doing the action (the subject) in the sentence. What do you notice?

How does Paul describe David in Acts 13:22?

Who is David’s promised offspring, according to Acts 13:23?

How does John the Baptist compare himself to Jesus in Acts 13:24–25?

Through this whirlwind history lesson, Paul emphasizes God as the initiator and completer of His will for His people Israel. God carried out and fulfilled His plans despite the unbelief and disobedience of His people (see Numbers 14:20–23; Judges 2:1–4; 1 Samuel 8:4–10). Paul brought to mind God’s faithfulness and grace toward His people during pivotal moments in their history. This introduction is paramount—because Paul’s next section calls the current generation of Jews in Jerusalem to account for their rejection of God’s anointed Messiah.

Read Acts 13:26–39.

Note again the two groups Paul’s audience contains:

What does Paul call his message?

Of what are the people of Israel currently guilty?

What action did God take in this passage?

In verse 34, Paul cites Isaiah 55. How does this passage of Scripture allude to the Gentiles being included in the promised salvation of the Jews (see especially vv. 5–11)?

How is David contrasted with Jesus in Acts 13:36–37?

What promise is given in Acts 13:38–39?

The promises given to David were made in 2 Samuel 7:1–17. God proclaimed that the throne of David would last forever. Because Jesus rose from the dead never to die again, He was able to fulfill this promise. He was also able to forgive all sins, our past and present sins, both willful and unintentional.¹

After delivering his explanation of how Jesus fulfilled the Scriptures, Paul now moved into his final point: “Now that you have heard the good news, you must make a decision.”

Read Acts 13:40–43.

What warning did Paul issue to his audience?

How did they respond?

How does the Scripture imply that some of them believed Paul’s message (see especially verse 43)?

Yesterday we noticed the parallels between Peter’s spiritual giftedness as an apostle and how Paul had been given those same abilities. This sermon by Paul also demonstrated the authenticity of his apostleship. The elements of this first recorded sermon by Paul mirror Peter’s initial sermon given on Pentecost.

Read Acts 2:22–36 and fill in the following blanks.

Jesus was crucified according to the of God (v. 23).

Both quote a prophecy of David. Read Psalm 16:8–10 and then write out Acts 2:27.

In Acts 13:33, Paul quotes Psalm 2:7. How does Paul tie in David’s prophetic words with who Jesus is?

You, dear one, have mined much information from the Scriptures today. I am proud of your diligence! My prayer, as was Peter’s and Paul’s in their Spirit-filled sermons, is that you are able to grasp how Jesus is indeed the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. As Paul later penned, “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory” (2 Corinthians 1:20). I also pray you were able to see how Paul preached the same message that Peter preached. This is important because as the Acts narrative unfolds, you will discover that Paul was accused of distorting the elements of the gospel message, creating division among the Jewish and Gentile believers.

You and I hold this beautiful message within our hearts today. If we have accepted Christ as our Savior, we have been given every promise of God.

What are we given as a guarantee that we have received the promises of God, according to Paul in Ephesians 1:13–14?

The powerful Holy Spirit enables us to live unexplainable lives. He unites us together to become the unexplainable church. We are entrusted with the message of salvation in our time and place in history. Paul and Barnabas started their first missionary journey by returning “home.” Maybe you and I need to be diligent to first share the message right in our own backyard.

Write down the names of one to five people for whom you will pray “to be a witness” throughout the remainder of this study.

So Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand said:

“Men of Israel and you who fear God, listen.

(ESV)

“Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation.

(ESV)

17 The God of this people Israel chose our fathers and made the people great during their stay in the land of Egypt, and with uplifted arm he led them out of it. 18 And for about forty years he put up with them in the wilderness. 19 And after destroying seven nations in the land of Canaan, he gave them their land as an inheritance. 20 All this took about 450 years. And after that he gave them judges until Samuel the prophet. 21 Then they asked for a king, and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years. 22 And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, ‘I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after my heart, who will do all my will.’ 23 Of this man’s offspring God has brought to Israel a Savior, Jesus, as he promised.

(ESV)

And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, ‘I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after my heart, who will do all my will.’

(ESV)

Of this man’s offspring God has brought to Israel a Savior, Jesus, as he promised.

(ESV)

24 Before his coming, John had proclaimed a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. 25 And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he. No, but behold, after me one is coming, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.’

(ESV)

26 “Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation. 27 For those who live in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not recognize him nor understand the utterances of the prophets, which are read every Sabbath, fulfilled them by condemning him. 28 And though they found in him no guilt worthy of death, they asked Pilate to have him executed. 29 And when they had carried out all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree and laid him in a tomb. 30 But God raised him from the dead, 31 and for many days he appeared to those who had come up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are now his witnesses to the people. 32 And we bring you the good news that what God promised to the fathers, 33 this he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus, as also it is written in the second Psalm,

“‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you.’

34 And as for the fact that he raised him from the dead, no more to return to corruption, he has spoken in this way,

“‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings of David.’

35 Therefore he says also in another psalm,

“‘You will not let your Holy One see corruption.’

36 For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep and was laid with his fathers and saw corruption, 37 but he whom God raised up did not see corruption. 38 Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, 39 and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.

(ESV)

5 Behold, you shall call a nation that you do not know,
and a nation that did not know you shall run to you,

because of the Lord your God, and of the Holy One of Israel,
for he has glorified you.

6 “Seek the Lord while he may be found;
call upon him while he is near;

7 let the wicked forsake his way,
and the unrighteous man his thoughts;

let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him,
and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.

10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven
and do not return there but water the earth,

making it bring forth and sprout,
giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,

11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,

but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

(ESV)

36 For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep and was laid with his fathers and saw corruption, 37 but he whom God raised up did not see corruption.

(ESV)

38 Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, 39 and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.

(ESV)

40 Beware, therefore, lest what is said in the Prophets should come about:

41 “‘Look, you scoffers,
be astounded and perish;

for I am doing a work in your days,
a work that you will not believe, even if one tells it to you.’”

42 As they went out, the people begged that these things might be told them the next Sabbath. 43 And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.

(ESV)

And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God.

(ESV)

22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know—23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. 25 For David says concerning him,

“‘I saw the Lord always before me,
for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken;

26 therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;
my flesh also will dwell in hope.

(ESV)

this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men.

(ESV)

8 I have set the Lord always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure.

10 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.

(ESV)

For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,
or let your Holy One see corruption.

(ESV)

this he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus, as also it is written in the second Psalm,

“‘You are my Son,
today I have begotten you.’

(ESV)

I will tell of the decree:

The Lord said to me, “You are my Son;
today I have begotten you.

(ESV)

13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

(ESV)

WEEK 1 | DAY 5 

WOMEN OF INFLUENCE 

ACTS 13:44–52 

Yesterday we read how Paul’s sermon left the people wanting more. They begged him to return next Sabbath for further instruction. Some of them even sought out Paul and Barnabas afterward. Their hearts were stirred and minds were piqued with interest to hear more about Jesus. We can assume that news of Paul’s sermon spread throughout Antioch in Pisidia by what we discover in today’s passage.

Read aloud Acts 13:44–49.

Who gathered on the next Sabbath?

How did the Jewish leaders of the synagogue feel about this? What did they do?

How did Paul and Barnabas respond to them? How did they justify their response?

How did the Gentiles respond to Paul’s declaration?

I wish the story ended right here with the semi-happy ending of many Gentiles turning to faith and the rejection of the message by many Jews minimizing the joy. However, this next detail, added on to the end of the story, leaps off the page with conviction and application.

Write out Acts 13:50 below and highlight the action words (verbs).

Some synonyms for incited include provoked, goaded, aroused, and inflamed. Did you notice the women were mentioned in the verse before the men? In a culture where women were second-class citizens, it is uncommon that they would be listed first—unless, of course, their influence exceeded that of the men. Being in women’s ministry for over twenty years, I can testify how women hold truly remarkable qualities. Women are tremendous networkers and influencers. If something needs to be accomplished, one woman can round up ten others at a moment’s notice to help her complete the task. If you want an event to be organized or an action to be taken, get women involved. They will wholeheartedly jump into a task to meet a need and not look back until it’s completed.

But there’s a flip side to this. Women’s hearts are so big they will quickly and easily offer their help when needed. Sometimes, however, our big hearts become overwhelmed by emotion rather than logic. We jump on board due to our feelings. I don’t think the women were listed in this passage first because they were the biggest offenders. I think the women were listed first because the Jews, who harbored jealousy, intentionally sought to incite the women. They knew if they could rouse a small number of prominent women and convince them of the danger Paul and Barnabas posed, they would quickly and effectively network throughout the city to take action. In essence, these Jewish leaders used the giftedness and uniqueness of women against them.

As the Acts narrative unfolds, the role of women in each city Paul visits is highlighted. In every church, women play a vital role in its health or its sickness. Their influence is either directly stated or implied, but they are mentioned in every account. What does this mean for you and me today? A pastor I dearly respect has said, “It’s the women who bring the family to church.” Mother Teresa said, “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” My husband frequently jokes, “Happy wife, happy life.” Ladies, you and I have tremendous influence in our homes and our churches. We may sometimes feel like second-class citizens, but our influence remains.

Before we close our study this week, let’s stop and spend some time with our heavenly Father. Sit at His feet and pour out your heart to Him. Record what He reveals to you below:

How does my attitude influence my family? My church?

How does my speech influence my family? My church?

Do my actions demonstrate the love of Christ to my family? To my church?

The incredible truth is that the church will not become unexplainable without the presence of unexplainable women. Our influence effectively undergirds other believers. As the Christian church navigates through an increasingly turbulent culture, we can either shore up the body of believers or shipwreck it. When others emotionally incite us to respond or take action, may we first run to the arms of our Father for guidance.

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.

(ESV)

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.

(ESV)

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