Acts 13:26-52

Today we hear the conclusion of Paul's sermon in Antioch of Pisidia.  The sermon is so well received by  hose in attendance that Paul and Barnabas are invited back to preach on the next Sabbath day. Apparently, though, word has gotten because the following week the entire city shows up to hear Paul preach.  Jealousy over crowd size ensues and some of the local Jews drive Paul and Barnabas from the city.   But this not before a number of Gentiles become believers. 

 

Throughout this passage, we hear of  a number of  instances where humans try to thwart the activity of God in their midst only only to hear how God's purposes will not be thwarted.  In Paul's sermon, he reminds his audience that even though the people had Jesus killed, God raised him up.   Although the chapter ends with Paul and Barnabas being driven from the city, God brings about the conversion of some of the Gentiles in attendance.   Where have you seen God's activity  continuing to shine through even after attempts were made to thwart it?