Response to the sermon (2)

“The next Sabbath nearly all the city assembled to hear the word of the Lord. But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy…” (1) On the next Sabbath, almost the entire city gathered to hear Paul’s sermon. The Jewish leaders must have diligently searched the Scriptures during the week. (2) The Jews reacted with opposition. However, this was not opposition to the gospel itself. They were filled with jealousy because a large number of Gentiles had flocked to the synagogue. If things continued this way, the traditions and laws of Judaism might be disregarded. (3) As a result, they “began contradicting the things spoken by Paul, and were blaspheming.” Consequently, Paul and Barnabas were no longer able to continue preaching. Then they declared, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first. Since you repudiate it and consider yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles…” (1) They fulfilled their mission to proclaim the word of God first to the Jews. The order of evangelism ordained by God is to the Jews first, and also to the Gentiles (ref. Rom. 1:16). (2) The Jewish community in Pisidian Antioch rejected the gospel of Christ. In doing so, they refused the offer of eternal life. (3) Therefore, Paul and Barnabas turned next to the Gentiles. This pattern would continue until Paul reached Rome. (4) Paul further quoted Isaiah 49:6: “I have appointed You as a light to the Gentiles, That You may bring salvation to the end of the earth.” The Gentiles present at the gathering greatly rejoiced. They praised the word of the Lord that brought them forgiveness of sins and freedom from the Law. (5) “All who had been appointed to eternal life believed.” Here, the doctrine of God’s election is revealed. There are chosen people among both Jews and Gentiles. All of them came to faith. We must believe in both God’s sovereignty and human free will. While it may seem like a contradiction to human reasoning, it is not a contradiction to God. (6) “And the word of the Lord was being spread through the whole region.” Through those chosen by God, the gospel spread throughout the entire region. However, the Jews took the opposite action. We, too, cannot remain neutral regarding the gospel. Blessed are those who gladly accept the gospel.