11.10 Acts 13-15

Stacy Carstensen

11.10.2020

Acts 13-15

Summarize what you read in one paragraph: 

Paul and Barnabas are sent out after the Holy Spirit moves the disciples through fasting and worshipping to have them go. These chapters talk about some of the teaching and traveling they did in Cyprus, Antioch, Iconium, Lystra. It must have been so intense! They are challenged by some Jews who contradicted what they said and so turned their focus to preaching to the Gentiles. That brought discussion of whether the Gentiles needed to be circumcised in order to be disciples. They discussed it with the apostles and elders and delivered the answer to the Gentiles. After, Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement and went their separate ways. Barnabas took Mark with him, and Paul took Silas. 

What is one key verse?

Acts 13:2-3 “While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.” 

How does what you read change your vision of God?

God is loving and patient. He will always do what he says he will do. If we obey him and his commands, he will be with us and for us. The people were worshipping, praying and fasting. They listened to the Spirit and did what he said. Because of that God was able to use Paul and Barnabas in such great ways to spread the Gospel. 

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

It challenges me to not forget God’s commandments. It is easy to get caught up in what is going on in the world around me, and with day to day life to think about what I need to say or do, which is exhausting. I only need to do what God commands and listen to him. He will do all of the work for me which is really the best work because it will ultimately glorify him in ways I could never dream up.

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

I will do my best to see clearly in the moment and trust in God. I will be more conscious of praying and listening before acting. I will encourage others to do the same. 

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

I saw Jesus when Paul was preaching the good news starting in 13:13. I also saw him when the apostles and elders were debating the Gentiles and what should be done and Peter stood up and spoke Jesus to them in Acts 15:7. He helped them see what Jesus came to do and reminded them of Jesus’ purpose – to be a people of all nations.