February 20 Acts 13:47
For so the Lord has commanded us, saying,
I have made you a light for the Gentile
that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.
This verse is part of Paul’s speech in Antioch of Pisidia, where he and Barnabas are addressing both Jews and Gentiles. The context is that Paul and Barnabas had first preached to the Jewish people in the synagogue, but after facing rejection, they turned their mission toward the Gentiles.
1. Fulfillment of Prophecy:
Paul and Barnabas quote Isaiah 49:6, a prophecy about the Servant of the Lord, originally referring to the Messiah (Jesus) but now extended to His messengers.
This shows that Christ’s mission to bring salvation to the Gentiles is now carried forward by the Church.
2. Apostolic Calling:
The phrase the Lord has commanded us suggests that Paul and Barnabas see themselves as directly fulfilling God’s mission.
Their ministry aligns with Jesus’s command in Matthew 28:19-20 to make disciples of all nations.
3. Salvation for All:
The light for the Gentiles symbolizes divine revelation and truth reaching beyond Israel.
To the ends of the earth underscores the universality of the Gospel, which is not limited to one people but meant for all.
4. Significance in Early Missions:
This marks a pivotal moment in the Book of Acts the transition from a primarily Jewish audience to a global mission.
The rejection by some Jews becomes the catalyst for reaching the Gentiles, fulfilling God’s greater plan
Application:
Personal Calling: Just as Paul and Barnabas were called to be a light, Christians today are also called to reflect Christ’s light in the world.
Evangelism: The mission of taking the Gospel to the ends of the earth is ongoing, calling for commitment to global and local evangelism.
God’s Sovereign Plan: Even rejection and opposition can serve a greater purpose in God’s plan, as seen in Paul’s shift to the Gentiles.
This verse reminds believers that the Gospel is for everyone, and they, too, are part of the mission to share Christ’s light with the world.
To whom are you called to share the Gospel?
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