Acts 13:46
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 13:46
46 Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.
Chapter Context
Acts 13 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, holiness, faith. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 13:46
46 Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.
Analysis
Paul and Barnabas's bold declaration - 'It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you... lo, we turn to the Gentiles' - marks a theological turning point. God's historical priority for Israel (Romans 1:16) didn't exclude Gentiles but established the pattern. Jewish rejection opened the door for Gentile inclusion, demonstrating how God's purposes advance even through opposition.
Historical Context
This statement in Pisidian Antioch established precedent for Paul's later ministry pattern: synagogue preaching first, then turning to Gentiles when Jews rejected the message. It reflected God's redemptive history from particular (Israel) to universal (all nations).
Reflection
- How does God's commitment to His purposes persist even when initial recipients reject His offer?
- What does this teach about the relationship between God's historical dealings with Israel and the church's Gentile mission?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G3056 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- References God: Acts 3:26, 26:20, 28:28, Isaiah 55:5, Matthew 21:43, Romans 1:16
- Word: Acts 13:26
- Parallel theme: Acts 22:21, John 1:11, Romans 2:10