Acts 13:38-43

The Law of Moses was the foundation of Jewish law, yet it ultimately pointed to Jesus—and many missed Him. The purpose of the Law was to make us aware of our sin and our need for a Savior, but it also served as a guide, directing us to that Savior. The prophets of old revealed what to look for, and Paul was entrusted with the task of making these truths clear to both Jews and Gentiles. He was uniquely qualified for this role, having been thoroughly trained in the Law as a Pharisee while also becoming a passionate proclaimer of the new Covenant established through Christ.

Change is never easy, even when it is expected. Paul and Barnabas are about to face resistance as the implications of their message begin to strike home, particularly within the Jewish community.

Again, notice that Paul is reminding his audience of the very words they claim to believe. Using the Torah as the foundation of his argument, he recounts the events surrounding Jesus of Nazareth and demonstrates how they identify Him as the promised Messiah and Lord.

When confronted with truth, we are left with a decision. We can accept it and align our lives with it, or we can reject it to our own detriment.

The people of Antioch are discussing these things because their assumptions and beliefs have been challenged. The question now is: what will they decide?

God's truth often confronts us before it comforts us. Like the people in Antioch, we are all faced with moments when what we believe is tested by what God reveals. The real question is not whether we have heard the truth, but what we will do with it once we have.