Acts 13:14 is a simple statement of fact, but it sets the stage for a significant event in the Book of Acts. Here's a breakdown of what it means and its context:
"But they, passing on from Perga..." This refers to Paul and Barnabas, the two main characters traveling together on a missionary journey. They had previously been in Perga (a city in Pamphylia), and now they are moving on to the next location on their itinerary.
"...came to Antioch of Pisidia." This clarifies their destination. It's important to note that this is not the same Antioch as the Antioch in Syria where Paul's ministry originated. Antioch of Pisidia was a city in the Roman province of Galatia, located inland in what is now Turkey.
"They went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day..." This tells us where they went and when they went there. It was their custom, as Jewish believers in Jesus, to attend synagogue on the Sabbath (Saturday), the Jewish day of worship.
"...and sat down." This simple act indicates they were ready to participate in the synagogue service. Typically, men would be invited to read from the Torah or Prophets and offer a word of exhortation. This is exactly what will happen next, as Paul will be invited to speak.
In summary, this verse describes Paul and Barnabas arriving in Antioch of Pisidia and following their usual practice of attending the synagogue on the Sabbath. This sets the scene for Paul to deliver a pivotal sermon, which is a key turning point in his ministry. By attending the synagogue, Paul and Barnabas are starting with their own people (the Jews) to share the Gospel, as they would typically do.
Acts 13:14 is a simple statement of fact, but it sets the stage for a significant event in the Book of Acts. Here's a breakdown of what it means and its context:
"But they, passing on from Perga..." This refers to Paul and Barnabas, the two main characters traveling together on a missionary journey. They had previously been in Perga (a city in Pamphylia), and now they are moving on to the next location on their itinerary.
"...came to Antioch of Pisidia." This clarifies their destination. It's important to note that this is not the same Antioch as the Antioch in Syria where Paul's ministry originated. Antioch of Pisidia was a city in the Roman province of Galatia, located inland in what is now Turkey.
"They went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day..." This tells us where they went and when they went there. It was their custom, as Jewish believers in Jesus, to attend synagogue on the Sabbath (Saturday), the Jewish day of worship.
"...and sat down." This simple act indicates they were ready to participate in the synagogue service. Typically, men would be invited to read from the Torah or Prophets and offer a word of exhortation. This is exactly what will happen next, as Paul will be invited to speak.
In summary, this verse describes Paul and Barnabas arriving in Antioch of Pisidia and following their usual practice of attending the synagogue on the Sabbath. This sets the scene for Paul to deliver a pivotal sermon, which is a key turning point in his ministry. By attending the synagogue, Paul and Barnabas are starting with their own people (the Jews) to share the Gospel, as they would typically do.