Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action. Every week, they gathered and went through the same ritual. The prayers always followed a set pattern. Services ran according to tradition for years, rarely stirring change. But when Paul preached first and the routine shifted, it unsettled those who clung to habit. Sometimes, shaking up tradition is the very step God uses to move His people from passive routine to active pursuit of His will.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Acts 13:1, Ephesians 4:11–16, Ephesians 4:14, Ephesians 4:13, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Ephesians 2:20–22, Ephesians 3:4–5, Acts 13:2–4, Isaiah 58, 1 Corinthians 14:14–15, Colossians 3:15–17, Ephesians 5:18–19, 1 Corinthians 14:14–15, John 3:2, Acts 13:2, Acts 13:3–4, Acts 13:4–13, Acts 13:13–15, Acts 13:16–22, Matthew 17:11–12, Malachi 4:5–6, Acts 13:40–41, Acts 13:42–44, Acts 13:45, 2 Corinthians 12:7–8, Acts 13:13–15, Acts 13:49,
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
From Jerusalem to Antioch — The Shift of Ministry in Acts 13
I’ve done a little more on the ministry of a prophet and a teacher than I really planned, but I decided to include it anyway. We’re going to study the five-fold ministry, and in doing so, we’ll review much of what I’ve already written. The primary purpose is to help us think in terms of the five-fold ministry. That’s the key reason this section is here, and that’s what I’ll try to emphasize.
Now, on page 79 of your notes, look with me at the very top of the page, right under the outline of Acts chapter 13. From this chapter to the end of the book, Antioch becomes the center of attention, and the Apostle Paul steps into prominence in ministry. Acts 13 is truly a chapter filled with ministry.
Shift from Jerusalem to Antioch
Jerusalem was once the church to be part of. But over time, it became pharisaical, bigoted, legalistic, and sectarian. As a result, the Holy Spirit shifted His focus to Antioch. We followed that move. Now, as we continue to chapter 13, we find ourselves in Antioch, and we’ll see that from here the remainder of the book of Acts flows outward.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Transition from Peter to Paul
We’ll return to Jerusalem briefly in chapter 15, but in a sense, we’ve left that old center of ministry behind. Peter’s ministry was the main one in chapters 1 through 12. However, in chapter 13, Paul rises to prominence.
Peter, great minister that he was, refused to change. He remained legalistic and pharisaical. He struggled with accepting the Gentiles. But God will always change ministry when needed. If a person or a church refuses to align with God, He will continue to move, leaving them behind on a dry riverbed.
Prophets and Teachers at Antioch (Acts 13:1)
Subheading: Text and initial emphasis
Acts 13:1
1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
I want to begin by discussing these prophets and teachers. This is important.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Necessity of the Five-Fold Ministry
It is impossible to have a true New Testament church without the five-fold ministry. That includes apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Without all five, you cannot have a New Testament church.
We must learn this truth in the church world today. Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are not optional. These are essential ministries. They are the only way the Church can come into the fullness of Christ.
They bring us into the image of the Son. These ministries help form the corporate, many-membered man that God intends His people to become. That is the purpose of the fivefold ministry.
Purpose and outcome of ministry (Ephesians 4:11-16)
Ephesians 4:11-16
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets, and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Verse 11 tells us the Lord gave some apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors, and teachers. When did he take them away? The majority of the church world today says that apostles and prophets are not for today. Why did he give them? Verse 12 says for our perfecting. That’s the Greek word teleos, which means coming to maturity.
Perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry. We can’t even learn how to minister without a five-fold ministry. They are for the edifying of the body of Christ. We can’t even edify one another without the instructions of the five-fold ministry.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
We can play around with it as we have all these years, but we can never fully embody the New Testament church “until.” Until what? Until we all come into the unity of faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God for a teleos man, a perfect man. When that which is perfect is come,
No longer children tossed by every wind of doctrine
Ephesians 4:14
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
The Dangers Without Apostolic and Prophetic Foundations
Doctrinal instability without foundation
Verse 14 states that without the proper foundation, we will all be tossed about from one place to another. Everyone has a different doctrine. Just look at this city—every church seems to teach something different.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Imagine if the apostle Paul came to our city. Would he bring order? If God raised up an apostle or a prophet today, would they be able to straighten things out? Verse 14 says, “That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the sleight of men and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” This is precisely what happened when the church removed apostles and prophets—suddenly, every new teaching pushed us in a different direction.
One day, I plan to actually do this: get out a telephone directory and count how many churches there are in this city. Each one has a different doctrine. Why can’t we follow the Bible’s teachings? If it tells us to do something, do it. If it tells us not to do something, don’t do it.
I can teach about the body of Christ. I can teach on the gifts of the Spirit, and I can explain the five-fold ministry. But if we still refuse to walk in it—if we won’t do what the Word says to do—I’m just making noise. I’m wasting my breath. Understanding is not enough if we don’t act on it.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
The purpose of ministry is to bring the church into the fullness of Christ, as described in Ephesians 4:13. However, we will never reach that goal unless we recognize that the apostolic ministry is still for today. We must allow these ministries to have influence and a part in our lives.
Is the prophet still a valid ministry today? I have given you several scriptures for this. We just read Ephesians 4:8-16. Those verses say that the prophetic ministry remains valid. They say we will continue to have it “until”—and that word “until” means up to a certain point in time. That point is when we reach the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, found in verse 13.
Has anyone here reached that maturity? Have you ever met anyone who truly has? If not, then why do we struggle to accept that apostolic and prophetic ministries are still needed?
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
God Sets Ministries in the Church (1 Corinthians 12:28)
Divine placement versus human systems
1 Corinthians 12:28
28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
God Sets Ministries in the Church (1 Corinthians 12:28)
I desperately want to see people healed. I want to see people become overcomers, and I have areas in my own life that I also want to overcome. But before I can overcome my problems, I first have to overcome the teachings handed down by my forefathers.
It says, “And God hath set…” Who set them in place? God did. I didn’t set them there. Roger didn’t, and Jim didn’t either. God set them there, right? “The Lord put them there. But what does man do? Man tries to take them out.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Do you realize that ministry is “married” to the church? Jesus said, “What God has joined together, let no man put asunder.” However, people have developed systems that attempt to separate ministry from the church.
It truly breaks my heart to see what human systems have done to God’s Word. We have taken the incorruptible Word and changed it to fit our own ideas. We’ve shaped it to look like men, animals, and creeping things. We make it fit our preferences. And if we can’t experience or understand something, we change it or explain it away. God help us.
Now, let’s go back to my main questions. Is the ministry of a prophet still valid today? Yes. Does Scripture ever say that prophetic ministry will end? No. Is there any verse that says the day of prophets would stop? No.
The Foundation of Apostles and Prophets (Ephesians 2:20–22)
Removing the foundation and its consequences
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Ephesians 2:20-22
20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Ephesians 2:20 is referring to the church. It’s talking about the Holy Temple. It’s talking about the lively stones that have been fitly joined together, just as Peter described in 1Peter 2:5. Verse 20 says these stones “are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone.”
Now, let’s think about this. If I remove the foundation from this structure, what would happen? The structure would crack and crumble. This is precisely what has happened in the church world today. We have removed the ministries of apostles and prophets. As a result, the church is cracking and crumbling.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
We have taken away the very foundation ministries. Now, we have to do the hard work—go back under the structure and dig out get the foundation placed again. We have to rebuild and reconstruct the things man’s doctrines have torn apart.
Mystery Revealed to Apostles and Prophets (Ephesians 3:4–5)
Revelation, fruit, and transformation
Ephesians 3:4-5
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Paul explains that by revelation, mysteries were made known to him. He writes about receiving insight through the revelation of the Word. These mysteries were not revealed to earlier generations. Only now have they been shown to holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.
Can anyone say we understand all the mysteries written in this Word? To see the depth of God’s revelation, the church needs the ministry of apostles and prophets. Without them, we close the book. With no apostles and prophets ministering, revelation stops, and mysteries remain hidden. Yet, I’ve shown you that the ministry of apostles and prophets is still valid for today. We should expect mysteries and revelations to continue flowing if we have apostles and prophets in our church.
What marks a true apostle or prophet? You’ll notice their fruit. Their ministry brings revelation that touches you, changes your thinking, and transforms your life. That’s New Testament reality. Apostles and prophets deliver revelation knowledge, and when they do, your life will change.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Primary heading: Restoration and Role of Teachers
Teachers impart revelatory knowledge
Scripture says God is restoring teachers to the church today, just as He did in the early church. Some might say, “We’ve always had teachers.” However, the truth is that God is restoring this ministry to its original state. True teachers work from the Word. They don’t sound like scribes and Pharisees, who merely want to instruct. Instead, teachers have a divine gift to impart knowledge and understanding, passing on revelation received by apostles and prophets.
Consider how the five-fold ministry operates. Apostles and prophets receive revelation from God. Teachers then explain and teach these mysteries to the people. Without teachers, that revelation gets lost. Without the five-fold ministry, no real growth happens. Life stays stagnant. Perfection, maturity, and the fullness of Christ remain out of reach.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Antioch’s Divine Order and the Holy Ghost
The Holy Spirit’s flow through five-fold order
Because of the ministry gifts—apostolic, prophetic, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—the Church at Antioch experienced the flow of the Holy Spirit. Antioch saw the fullness of ministry, and as a result, the Holy Ghost was allowed to minister freely. The Antioch church had more than just prophets and teachers; through their ministry, the Holy Ghost moved. Divine order at Antioch brought the ministry of the Holy Ghost into the church.
You may have prophets and teachers present, but the critical question is, do you have the Holy Ghost? Most churches do not. Many remain stuck in Jerusalem while the Holy Ghost has moved to Antioch.
Let’s take our own church forward, following the Spirit. Invite prophets and apostles to First Assembly. Encourage evangelists, pastors, and teachers to minister together. When all five-fold ministries operate, the Holy Ghost can truly flow. I don’t want to remain in Jerusalem. Anyone else want to move with the Spirit?
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Ministering to the Lord and Hearing the Spirit (Acts 13:2–4)
Calling through ministering to the Lord
Acts 13:2-4
2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
They ministered to the Lord. How do we minister to the Lord? I want to show you this in verse 4. Their calling came through ministering to the Lord, not just seeking personal blessings. That’s a significant shift. Scripture says, “as they ministered unto the Lord.” Ask yourself why most Christians come to church. Are they here to minister to the Lord, or do they come to be ministered to by Him? That’s a significant change in attitude.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Spiritual growth and overcoming
Spiritual growth means moving beyond the childhood stage of “bless me, bless me, give me, give me.” It’s about coming into a new realm—asking, “Father, what can I do for you?” True maturity says, “I want to love and praise you today.”
See what I mean? Most Christians only want to get blessed. It feels good—but does it make a lasting difference? Did it help you overcome the giants in your life? Feeling good isn’t everything. People won’t sit in the throne unless they overcome. The promise is clear: “He that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame and am set down with my Father in His throne.” Coming to church to feel blessed is not the goal. Feeling good is not the primary purpose. The early believers ministered to the Lord.
How did they do it? Several ways. At the bottom of page 81, note that they fasted. You’ll learn more about fasting this year—for now, know that it means abstaining from food (Strong’s Concordance number 3522). Fasting is an actual test of the flesh, requiring genuine willpower. If you want to study sooner, check Isaiah 58. You can learn all about the fast the Lord desires.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Prayer and fasting as ministry
Another thing they did was pray. Let’s focus on this for a moment. The word “pray” means the same thing as the prayer Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 12, where he says he will pray with the Spirit and with understanding. Praying in the Spirit—in Romans 8:26, Paul speaks of praying “with groanings which cannot be uttered.” Another translation calls it unspeakable language. This was the kind of deep prayer they offered to the Lord.
1 Corinthians 14:14-15
14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Notice the order in which Paul prayed. Which one did he say he prayed in first? The Spirit. Now think about your own life. Which one do you start with? Which do you use most? Does one make a greater difference? Lord, help us understand. Reveal the secrets of your Word to us. This is the kind of prayer described.
Corporate Praise and Spiritual Songs in Ministry
Colossians 3:15–17 – Praise in worship
Colossians 3:15-17
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Colossians 3:16 teach us about scriptural praise. Who honestly wants to experience biblical praise? I know I do—it’s exciting! This is about corporate praise—ministering together to the Lord. Notice the phrase, “one another.” Praise is meant to be shared; you build each other up when you sing.
What does it mean to sing Psalms? That refers to scriptural singing—praise using God’s Word. “Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.” Not all hymns are scriptural, but Psalms certainly are. Spiritual songs, on the other hand, are those sung with grace in your hearts to the Lord. That’s not the core definition, but I’ll clarify what a spiritual song is in just a moment. For now, see that these songs are directed to God.
The point I want to highlight is this: corporately, we minister to the Lord with Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. That’s our focus here.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Ephesians 5:18–19 – Personal worship
Ephesians 5:18-19
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Ephesians 5 points to ministering “to yourselves” as individuals. Colossians 3:16 describes a shared, corporate prayer and praise in worship. When you praise the Lord, you encourage others around you. Your praise brings me joy. Hearing you praise the Lord uplifts me. You edify me and build me up in faith.
In Ephesians 5:19, to whom do we speak? Have you ever talked to yourselves? Did you know that it was scriptural? Speaking to yourselves in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. Spiritual songs, singing, and making melody in your heart to whom? The Lord.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Have you ever been alone and found youself in a praise and a prayer spirit that you began to minister to the Lord. There’s nothing better. Nothing. There is such a cleansing of your mind that happens at those times. There’s such a cleansing of your soul. There’s a peace that overcomes you. Back up one verse. Because this is what it’s like. And be not drunk with wine, wherein in excess, but be filled with the Spirit. Oh, you can get drunk like that. It’s spiritually high. Just all alone, talking and singing to yourself in Psalms and hymns and that spiritual song.
1 Corinthians 14:14-15
14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
What is a Spiritual Song?
What is a spiritual song? Paul asked in 1 Corinthians 14:15, “What is it then?” He’s talking about the purpose of tongues—using diverse kinds of tongues in worship. What is the real reason for tongues? He says, “I will pray with the Spirit”—using the prayer language God gives—and “I will pray with my understanding also.” Notice that he places the Spirit first, indicating where the emphasis should be.
Next, Paul states, “I will sing in a spiritual song.” So, what is a spiritual song? It means singing with tongues—singing in the Spirit. There is nothing better. Do you know why?
Let’s back up to verse 14 for a deeper look. When you sing or pray in the Spirit, something special happens. Paul writes, “For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.” This means you bypass your carnal mind. Your carnal mind isn’t involved when you praise or pray in the Spirit. By ministering in the Spirit, you step past mental or worldly distractions. It’s your spirit—your innermost being, the new creation inside you—praising God.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
That’s powerful! That’s exactly what it’s all about. The church in Antioch practiced this. They came to worship not just for themselves, not just to get blessed. Their focus was on ministering to the Lord. Imagine if, every Sunday, everyone came determined to minister to the Lord. What would happen if each person’s desire were to truly praise God? You could come forward and sing in the Spirit, even if no one else joined in. However, it’s much better and more strengthening when others join in alongside.
Singing in your understanding is good, but which is most important? Go back to verse 15 again. “What is it then? I will pray with the Spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also.” Spirit comes first—so spiritual prayer is most important. “I will sing with the Spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.” Spirit comes first again.
Paul is teaching about prayer, praise, and worship. In 1 Corinthians 14, he sets out instructions for how to use tongues. The church in Corinth was misusing this gift—everyone spoke in tongues simultaneously. Paul tells us that’s not God’s primary purpose. Use tongues to praise and pray to God. When you do, your ordinary understanding is bypassed. You step past your natural desires. James warns that when we pray, we often ask wrongly, focused on our own wants. That’s why we need to get in the Spirit and leave carnalities behind.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
The Spirit’s Voice and Ministry Selection
Hearing God in the Antioch Church
As they ministered to the Lord, the Spirit spoke to them. Scripture says that very thing—while ministering unto the Lord, they heard the Spirit’s voice. But how did the Spirit speak? Was it a loud voice calling to Antioch, saying, “Set apart Barnabas and Saul”? No, it happened by the Spirit.
But what does “by the Spirit” mean? Did God use a person? Did He speak through a prophet? How does He speak to us today? This raises a tough question. Can the Lord speak to us without a prophet, if we’ve done away with apostles and prophets? The problem is, we’ve changed the Word—kept the parts we liked, and discarded the rest. We created our own doctrines and theologies.
Jesus the Teacher and True Doctrine
Jesus is the Example—John 3:2
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
John 3:2
2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
In this verse, Jesus is speaking with Nicodemus. The passage says that Jesus is the teacher sent from God. All teaching must line up with what Jesus taught. If it does not agree with his teachings, what kind of teaching is it? False.
This is not just something I’m saying casually. Take it literally. I could, right now, show you a scripture from Matthew chapter 24 that proves most of what the church world teaches is actually false. Much of the teaching received in churches today does not line up with Scripture. It’s not the same teaching Jesus gave. That makes it false.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Checking All Teaching by God’s Word
Who is responsible if we accept false teaching? You already know the answer. God has given us His Spirit, and the Spirit is meant to guide us into all truth. Too often, we place our trust in men. Because we depend on human authority, we tend to believe whatever those people tell us. We decide how to be “spiritual” by watching other so-called spiritual people and copying their behavior.
Instead, look to Jesus. He is the author and finisher of your faith. Do what he did. Say what he said. Live the way he lived. Don’t focus on me. Don’t focus on anyone other than the Spirit.
Now, I do want to live a life like Paul described—one worthy of imitation. That’s my goal. Before you accept anything I say, however, ensure it aligns with the Word of God.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
The Holy Spirit Chooses and Sends Ministry (Acts 13:2–4)
The Holy Spirit as executive, not man
Acts 13:2
2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
It was as they ministered to the Lord, verse 2, that the Spirit said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.” The Holy Spirit is the executive in the church, not man. The Holy Spirit called, chose, elected, and equipped the ministry. Man did not. Headquarters is located where the Lord Jesus sits, not in some earthly city with a denominational office.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Human nature and God’s ways
Man cannot choose true ministry. Man can only select other men. People will always want a king, just like the other nations around them. Remember Saul? He was Israel’s first king. The people told Samuel, “Get us a king like the other nations have.” We follow that same pattern today when we say, “Get us a preacher.” Human nature demands a king like other denominations have. Because of that desire, God will sometimes give them a Saul. Then they become just like the rest of the religious system.
So what do you want? A Saul like the other denominations? Or do you want God to bless you with an anointed David? Which would you choose—a David or a Saul?
Acts 13:3-4
3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Verse 3 says, “they sent them.” This refers to the church’s role. Supporting missionaries and ministries is a responsibility of the church. You send them out, and you support them.
Verse 4 mentions being “sent forth by the Holy Ghost.” The Holy Spirit chose them. Choosing ministry is the Holy Spirit’s responsibility, not ours. Left to ourselves, we would pick someone like Saul—a “head and shoulders” man. We’d choose someone attractive, tall, with broad shoulders, who looks impressive. But God chooses people like Paul. Paul was short and small. Do you know what his name means? Paul means “Little.”
Our ways are not God’s ways. As high as heaven is above the earth, so are His ways above ours. They shouldn’t be so different, but they are. God, through the Holy Spirit, is responsible for choosing ministry. Our job is to support what He chooses.
Paul’s First Missionary Journey—An Outline
The journey’s route and purpose
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
We’re about to go on a missionary journey with Saul/Paul. Want to come with me? This shows Paul’s first missionary journey.
Tonight, we’ll travel this path: We start by leaving Antioch. From there, we go to Seleucia. Next, we sail from Seleucia to the island of Cyprus, landing at Salamis. We’ll preach there briefly, then travel across Cyprus to Paphos. After leaving Paphos, we head up to Perga. The journey ends tonight at Antioch, where we get kicked out. Next week, we’ll complete the rest of the missionary journey. That’s our plan—just wanted to outline it clearly.
The First Missionary Journey Begins (Acts 13:4-13)
The journey to Cyprus and encounters there
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Acts 13:4-13
4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
5 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.
6 And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus:
7 Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.
8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.
9 Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him.
10 And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.
12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.
13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.
Notice in verse 7, it’s “Barnabas and Saul.” In verse 9 it says, “Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,).” In Verse 13, it’s “Paul and his company.” Leadership of the missionary journey changed, as well as Saul’s name.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Paul’s consistent ministry pattern
Barnabas and Paul left Antioch and sailed to the island of Cyprus. Paul always follows the same ministry pattern. First, he enters a city and goes directly to the synagogue. What do you always find at the synagogue? Pharisees, Jews, and religious people. This becomes his consistent approach—he presents the Gospel to religious people first. Religious people always refuse it. After their rejection, he takes it to the Gentiles, which makes sense since he’s the apostle to the Gentiles.
Paul arrives in Cyprus and lands there. Verse 5 shows he preaches the word. John is with him to minister. It’s John Mark. This is Mark, who wrote the Gospel of Mark. The word “minister” means an under-oarsman—basically a subordinate. The lexicon explains it as an inferior ministry that performs certain functions. Mark is learning under this inferior ministry role.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
The Confrontation with Bar-Jesus
Understanding the Antichrist figure
The team enters the Isle of Cyprus and preaches at Salamis. Paul travels through the entire island, going all the way to the other end, to Paphos. There, he encounters a sorcerer named Bar-Jesus.
Scripture tells us several things about Bar-Jesus. First, he’s a sorcerer, meaning a magician who practiced oriental science—what we might call Halloween-type activities today. Second, he’s a false prophet—false ministry, false five-fold ministry. Third, verse 6 reveals he’s a Jew, a religious person. Finally, it gives us his name: Bar-Jesus.
When you understand what his name means, you’ll see the Antichrist type clearly. Bar-Jesus literally means “the son of Jesus.” Cyprus has an Antichrist figure, but Paul has landed. All of Salamis has heard only the words of Bar-Jesus until now.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
The word “anti” means “substitute.” It doesn’t necessarily mean “against,” though that’s part of it. The main meaning is substitute. Cyprus had a substitute Jesus—Bar-Jesus, the Antichrist, the substitute Christ. Now, true ministry has arrived, and they’re about to come face-to-face.
The confrontation and victory
There’s a man there named Sergius Paulus, mentioned in verse 7. Scripture says he’s a prudent man. “Prudent” means mentally put together—intelligent. Intelligent people live in Cyprus. Sergius is one of them. But all Sergius has ever heard are the words of Bar-Jesus.
Paul has arrived. He approaches Sergius. Paul then faces this antichrist and speaks directly to him, calling him “the son of the devil.” Let’s read it in verse 10: “O full of subtlety and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?” Quite a title for someone who calls himself a prophet and performs “spiritual” magic.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
All Sergius has known are Bar-Jesus’ words. Paul and this antichrist meet head-on. Kingdom of light versus kingdom of darkness. Who wins? The kingdom of light speaks, and the kingdom of darkness goes blind, looking for someone to help. Then Sergius is astonished and believes.
Personal Application of the Cyprus Ministry
The Bar-Jesus in your life
That’s the complete picture of what happens when real ministry comes to a city. But let me share a deeper thought. You have treasure in earthen vessels. You are an island, and there’s a Bar-Jesus in you. At times in your life, something substitutes for Christ. What keeps you from praying? What prevents you from praising? Things stop you from coming to church sometimes. What hinders you from paying tithes? Bar-Jesus.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
But here’s the good news. A Paul has landed on your island. He’s about to travel from east to west through your mind, searching for Bar-Jesus. Every time he finds him, he’ll point his finger and call him “the child of the devil.” That thing will go blind in your mind.
Has Bar-Jesus come to your island? Think about the last four months. Are you still thinking like you used to? Are you living as you did before? Paul has landed on your island. He’s moving through your mind, searching from east to west. Each time he finds that substitute in your life, he confronts it. He hates anything that stands in place of Christ. His goal is to make it go blind in you. I want you to be amazed at the teaching of the Lord.
Ministry to others
Let me take this a step further. I want you to set sail for Cyprus in someone else’s life. Start traveling from Salamis all the way to the other side, east to west. Search for Bar-Jesus in their life. Confront that Antichrist—challenge anything that substitutes for Christ. Speak to it, make it go blind, and let God’s teaching astonish them. This isn’t about the doctrine of Paul or Delbert; it’s all about the doctrine of the Lord.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Are you learning how to do that? Don’t stop—keep going. Remember, Paul has landed on your island. That’s a good thing.
How about your life? Has a ministry arrived on your island? Bar-Jesus represents false ministry and the ministry of the system. John Mark is the inferior ministry. Saul and Barnabas stand for apostolic and prophetic ministry—they will shake up inferior ministry and expose what’s false. Real ministry will travel through your mind and sweep through your thinking. You’re mentally put together. Do you want to hear God’s word?
Bar-Jesus always wants things to stay the same. But when you hear true ministry, you’ll be surprised at the teachings of the Lord. Paul has arrived—Amen.
Paul Gets a Name Change and John Mark Departs
Here is where Paul gets a name change. The text says “Saul, who also is called Paul.” In Hebrew, Saul means ask, inquire, request, or demand. The Greek form draws from a word meaning to liquefy, to waste with disease, to faint, or to destroy.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Paul, on the other hand, means “little” in Greek. It also derives from a word meaning to stop, restrain, quit, desist, or come to an end. This shows Saul died to himself—he became little. Saul came to an end. Now Paul knew he was dead, his life hidden with Christ in God. He recognized he was crucified with Christ, yet lived—though not himself, but Christ lived in him. The life he lived now was by the faith of the Son of God, who loved him and gave himself for him.
Saul and Paul show us the victory of the kingdom of light. Paul, representing “little” and “end of self,” comes out on top.
John Mark departs, and I’ll touch this briefly. After leaving Cyprus and arriving in Perga, John Mark decided to leave. Scripture doesn’t go into detail about why, but clues are clear about his reasons.
Look at verse 13. It says, “Paul and his company.” If you look at the listings from Acts 11:30, 12:25, 13:1, 13:2, and 13:7—all these mention Barnabas first: Barnabas and Saul, time after time. Suddenly, in Acts 13:9, it’s Saul (called Paul) filled with the Holy Ghost, and in 13:13, it’s Paul and his company. From there, it’s always Paul first: Paul and Barnabas, Paul and Silas, Paul and whoever.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
John Mark was either Barnabas’s cousin or nephew. When Paul took charge at Cyprus and became the leader of the journey, John Mark didn’t like it. He didn’t want his Uncle Barnabas to play second fiddle to Paul. So he left, not returning to Antioch, but going home to Jerusalem. Remember, this is John Mark—the author of the Gospel of Mark. He was young and inexperienced at the time. He still had a lot to learn about ministry.
Some parts of me are young and inferior too. I still have a lot to learn, but I’m not planning on quitting. John Mark went home to his mother, Mary, in Jerusalem. It all worked out, though. Paul later says in Colossians 4:10 and 2 Timothy 4:11 that Mark was helpful to his ministry, and reconciliation happened.
Eventually, the issue between Barnabas and Paul led to a genuine dispute. When planning the second missionary journey, Barnabas wanted to bring John Mark again. Paul refused, saying Mark wasn’t ready because he had abandoned them before. Both leaders were right, in their own way.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
What do we learn from this about ministry? At first, Mark held the role of a deacon, someone still learning and making mistakes. Paul was correct—ministry requires proven faithfulness; you don’t bail out when things get tough. Barnabas was also right—people who fail need to be restored. Mark eventually became a strong minister, thanks to Barnabas’s support, not Paul’s.
You see, both men were right. Mark developed into a valid ministry, and we’ll see more about this in chapter 15. I wanted to provide you with the background information.
A theologian claims Paul caught malaria at Cyprus or Perga. They point to Galatians, chapter four, where Paul says, “You would have even plucked out your eyes for me.” Their theory is that when Paul traveled through Galatia, and he had picked up malaria at Cyprus, resulting in trouble with his eyes.
Imagine preaching divine healing while dealing with uzzing eyes. Some believe this is what Paul went through.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh
2 Corinthians 12:7-8
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
Some point to 2 Corinthians chapter 12, where Paul mentions his “thorn in the flesh.” Everyone knows about that passage. According to this theologian, Paul’s thorn was his poor eyesight caused by malaria—that’s their theory.
But Paul actually explains what his thorn in the flesh was, right there in the same chapter. Look at 2 Corinthians 12:7. He says Satan sent him a messenger to buffet him. Why did this happen? Because of the abundance of revelation he received.
Do you know when Satan really comes after you? When you start receiving an abundance of revelation from God. Start getting deep insights from the Lord, and you’ll find yourself with your own personal devil. Paul had his, and sometimes I think I have mine too.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
That’s what Paul’s thorn in the flesh really was—his own personal devil attacking him because of all the revelation God was giving him. I thought you should be aware of that perspective.
Moving on, they held traditional services at Antioch. By the way, we’re there now in our study. We’ve traveled to Antioch, but this is not the same Antioch we left from earlier. This is Antioch of Pisidia.
Traditional Services and the Change in Antioch
Acts 13:13-15
13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.
14 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.
15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Let me explain their weekly services. Every week, they gathered and went through the same ritual. The prayers always followed a set pattern. They had two scheduled teachings. Afterwards, someone stood up and delivered a message.
Think about how similar that is to our services today. We come into church. We pray in a certain way, and we follow the Sunday script. Another prayer. Then I come forward and give a message. Notice how much we’ve kept that tradition.
What would happen if the routine suddenly changed? Imagine if one Sunday I preached first, then we prayed, and skipped the typical Sunday script. Suppose we all just went home at 10:30. Some people would be upset. “Who does he think he is? We’ve always done it this way.” That’s the mindset—it’s the way we’ve done things for 2,000 years. But has that tradition actually worked yet? That’s what I’m talking about. Sometimes you need to shake things up.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Paul’s First Recorded Sermon at Antioch of Pisidia
Acts 13:16-22
16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.
17 The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.
18 And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness.
19 And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.
20 And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.
21 And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.
22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Paul preached his first recorded sermon at Antioch of Pisidia. It begins at verse 17. There are two kinds of people present in the church. Want to spot them? Paul stood up, motioned with his hand, and said, “Men of Israel, and you who fear God.” Two groups appear. “Men of Israel” refers to the circumcision—the ones who look right, talk right, and act right. Deacon-type people. They often never hear Paul’s words because tradition holds them tightly. Then, there are those who fear God. Thankfully, they are there too.
This is Paul’s first sermon that Scripture records. It runs from verse 16 through verse 41. It is not the first sermon he ever preached, but it is the first one that was recorded. He delivers a four-point message. I gave it a title: “I Work a Work in Your Days.” We won’t cover every detail. There are many types and patterns, but we’ll move along.
Paul’s Four Point Message—“I Work a Work in Your Days”
Point One—God Raising Up a Man
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Point one: God is raising up a man. This section covers verses 17 through 22. It shows how God chose the fathers. God chose you. It shows how God suffered with them in the wilderness—the Amplified says He endured. He still endures with me. It tells how God destroyed seven nations. He defeated Satan in my life, too. It reveals how God gave them judges—leadership. Then He gave them a king, Saul. That reflects the system – pastor like other denominations. After that, God removed that king and that system, and He raised up David.
Read verse 22. “When He had removed him,” referring to Saul and the system, “He raised up David.” There’s much to say about David. He received three anointings—first as a young boy, then as king over Judah, and finally as king over all Israel. Three anointings marked his life.
Focus on the word “raised.” God raised up David. In our day, God is raising up David again. He is raising a truly anointed, many-membered man. The seed of Abraham—and Jesus is also the seed of David. God is raising an anointing among His people.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
The word “raised” is Strong’s 1453. It means to awaken or rouse—literally from sleep, sitting, lying, disease, death—or figuratively from obscurity, inactivity, ruins, or nonexistence. The lexicon emphasizes awakening. God wants to wake us up. He wants to rouse us. He wants to lift you out of sleeping, out of sitting, out of lying down. Rise up. That is what God is doing in this hour—raising a people, a David company, carrying a real anointing. Rise up. That is Paul’s first point.
Let me add one more thought before moving on. God says, “I have found David, a man after My own heart.” We’ve all read that. That’s why He loved David—he pursued God’s heart. The verse continues, “who will fulfill all My will.” God found David. Has God found David in your life? Are you after God’s heart? Do you do things God’s way—after His thoughts, His written word, His voice? He is looking for a David. Has He found David in you? Has He found David in me? Am I after God’s own heart?
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Point Two—Jesus’ First and Second Coming
Point two. Jesus’ first coming is described, and I compare that to His second coming. John the Baptist appears in Elijah’s ministry. He began restoration. You can study this alongside Matthew 17:11-12 for the theme of the second coming. Jesus said, “Elijah has come already,” and “Elijah shall come.” Many people miss that. Another Elijah-type ministry will come and restore all things, as Malachi 4:5-6 declares. This will not be just one man, but a ministry comprising many. Their work will be to restore all things to God. Study it for yourself.
Point Three—From Trial to Eternal Life
Point three. Paul’s sermon runs from trial to eternal life. We’ll skip the details for now.
Point Four—The Warning
Acts 13:40-41
40 Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets;
41 Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Point four. The last thing that I want to get is the warning. Now let me read that to you from some other translations. The Living Bible says, Look and perish, you despisers of the truth. For I am doing something in your day, something that you won’t believe when you hear it announced.
Today’s English version says, Look, you scoffers, wonder and die. For the work that I am doing in your day is something that you will not believe even when someone explains it to you.
The NIV Bible says, Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish. Because I am going to do something in your days that you never believe even if someone told you.
The Jerusalem Bible says, Cast your eyes around you, mockers. Be amazed and perish. For I am doing something in your own days that you would not believe if you were to be told of it.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
What I’m saying and what Paul was saying here is that from the fathers, all the way back to the patriarchs, in every age, God has done something. He was never still. He was never just quiet. God was always doing something. And one day, He was doing the work on Calvary. Jesus was hanging on the cross. Some stood at the foot of that cross and shook their head and waggled their head and mocked and died. Life was on the cross. Death was mocking and dying, standing on the ground.
Where are you? Have you taken up your cross daily? Have you nailed your hide to the cross? If you don’t think Jesus wants you to take yourself, your flesh, your carnalities, and nail it to your cross and let it hang there and die, you’re wrong. Because that’s where you find life. The mockers, the head wagglers, are down there mocking and laughing, pointing at you. But you tell me, where is life really at? On the cross or on the ground? Where is it? On the cross.
And if you don’t nail your hide there and find out what God’s doing today, you’ll mock it, you’ll laugh at it, but you’ll die. And you’ll have no more understanding of what God’s doing today than you’ve got right now.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Paul told these people that God was doing something in their day. I stand here every week and tell you, God’s doing something in your day. Now you believe me, or you wouldn’t be here. But look how many are not. Look how many are waggling their head and mocking and dying. But I’m telling you, like Paul says, God’s doing something right here in Lafayette, Georgia. God’s doing something right here in the First Assembly.
God’s going to touch this city. He’s going to move. God’s going to shake it. And he’s going to use you. He’s going to raise up a New Testament church somewhere in this city. You can be a part of it, or you can stand and mock and waggle your tongue and die.
Now you already know in which part I’ll be. I’m going to Antioch. I’ve sailed to Cyprus. Now I’m up in Antioch for Syria. And I’m telling you, God is doing a work in your days. And the hardest part about that is you don’t believe it. I stand here and I tell you and declare it to you, but you don’t believe me. But one day, the whole city will turn out to hear this word.
Response to the Word and Citywide Interest
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Acts 13:42-44
42 And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.
43 Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.
44 And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.
Look at verse 44. “The next Sabbath, almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God.” From verses 43 to 44, you’ll find three different groups of people.
Verse 43 says, Some people followed to learn more.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Verse 42 shows another group. “When the Jews were gone”—are Jews religious people? We have them here every Sunday. As soon as I dismiss, the Jews leave. “The Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath.”
Some say, “Brother Young, that was so good. I can’t wait until next Sunday to hear more.” They’re right—I don’t see them again until the following Sunday. But blessed be the name of God. Many followed Paul and Barnabas. Paul spoke to them and persuaded them to continue in God’s grace.
Many of you want to go home with me. Many invite me to your homes. You want to know what I know and learn what I’ve learned. The only way to do that is to get connected with Paul. Follow him around. Talk to him. That word “persuade” is important. “Persuaded” means to convince by argument, whether true or false.
I’ve sat in some of your homes and discussed the Word. Through our conversations, I’ve convinced you by presenting arguments, some of which may be true or false. Can you see this pattern? Do you see the New Testament church? Do you see First Assembly operating this way? Over and over, this is how it works.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
The Continuing Work of God and the Word Spreading
Throughout all the ages, from the fathers to the present, God has been doing a work. You can look at it, scoff at it, despise it, doubt it, and die with no greater understanding than you have right now. Or you can recognize that God is working a work in your day. The problem is, you’ll have trouble believing it, even when someone explains it to you. Does that sound familiar?
Don’t despise what God is doing. Don’t doubt, mock, and die. Arise and shine, for your light has come. The church world sits waiting for Jesus to come. They’re asleep and dying. Let God raise you up and wake you to what He’s doing in your very midst. Paul uses the word “raised” four different times. God is raising up a many-membered man to do His program. God’s program includes your cross and sufferings.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Let me bring this to a close. Almost everyone came out in verse 44 to hear the word of God. It wasn’t dinner on the grounds that drew them. It wasn’t a big-name evangelist, and it wasn’t a singing group. What brought them? The word of God. People will come out to hear God’s word. If they’re coming for any other reason, it’s not the right reason.
Acts 13:45
45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.
The Jews were envious. When you fill this church and have to build another one, who will get envious? When the whole city turns out to hear God’s word, who will become jealous? Just remember that when it happens.
Acts Series Chapter 13: How to Move from Tradition to Action
Acts 13:49
49 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.
It is crucial to see what happens when the Jews contradict and blaspheme. Their opposition becomes the best publicity Paul and Barnabas could receive. You never hear much from a dead church. Silence is a sign of no life. If no one is talking about our church, then we are dead. This week, I received a phone call accusing me of being Jim Jones. We’ve gotten calls about how we worship God here. Listen, they’re talking about us! That’s our best publicity.
Things are changing. We are coming alive. People have started talking about you. They are especially talking about your pastor. The names they call me are ugly, but the names they called Jesus, like Beelzebub, didn’t stop Him. The accusations include abominations and blasphemy. It means the word is spreading.
Acts Series Chapter 13 Audio
Acts Series Chapter 13 Audio
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