The Book Of ActsSýnishorn

The Growth of the Kingdom in Cyprus, Phrygia and Galatia: Acts 13:1–15:35

In Acts 13:1-15:35, Luke turned to his fourth major section: the spread of the gospel in Cyprus, Phrygia and Galatia. 

In this section, the gospel moved further from Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, stretching into the eastern portions of Asia Minor and divides into two main parts: Paul’s first missionary journey itself in Acts 13:1-14:28, and the council in Jerusalem in Acts 15:1-35. 

In keeping with his strategy, Luke reflected the pattern of internal growth and tension in this section as well. He pointed to internal growth through things such as:

• Paul’s  strengthening of the churches in Galatia in Acts chapter 14; and
• The Jerusalem council’s decision not to demand circumcision of Gentile converts to Christ in Acts chapter 15. 

Luke also mentioned internal tension in this section, especially as he wrote about the practical difficulties related to Gentile converts. Tension arose between Jewish and Gentile believers over the issues of:

• Circumcision and the rigors of the traditional Jewish diet in Acts chapter 15.

With regard to external growth and opposition, Luke mentioned many matters, such as:

• The numerical growth generated by Paul’s first missionary journey, as reported in Acts chapter 14.

But as before, this growth was accompanied by strong opposition. For example: 

• Paul and Barnabas were repeatedly rejected by Jewish unbelievers, especially in Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, in Acts chapter 14.

Even so, the Holy Spirit continued to move the church forward and to overcome every obstacle in the path of his people. The unstoppable gospel continued to accomplish God’s purposes.