New Testament
Acts 13:5
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When they arrived in Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their assistant.
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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.
What Acts 13:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Paul and Barnabas arrive in Salamis, a city on the island of Cyprus. Their mission is clear: to share the message of God. They begin by visiting the Jewish synagogues, where they speak to the people about their faith. This shows their commitment to reaching out to those who already have a foundation in the Scriptures. John, also known as Mark, accompanies them as an assistant, highlighting the importance of teamwork in their mission. The act of preaching in synagogues indicates a strategic approach, as they engage with those who are familiar with the teachings of the Jewish faith. This moment emphasizes the significance of community and shared beliefs in spreading a message. It reminds us that sharing our beliefs often starts with those who are already open to hearing them. The journey of Paul and Barnabas is not just about travel; it’s about connection and communication, making the word of God accessible to everyone they meet. Their example encourages us to be proactive in sharing our own beliefs with others.
How to apply Acts 13:5 to your life
Consider how you can share your beliefs with those around you. Look for opportunities to engage in conversations about faith with friends or family. Remember that building connections can make a significant impact on others' understanding and acceptance of your message. Be open and approachable in your discussions about faith and values. Your example can inspire others to explore their own beliefs further.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Sorcerer on Cyprus (Acts 13:4–12)
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Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Acts 13:5
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 13:5 mean?
Acts 13:5 describes Paul and Barnabas arriving in Salamis, Cyprus, where they preach the word of God in Jewish synagogues. This indicates their mission to share their faith with those familiar with the Scriptures, emphasizing the importance of community in spreading their message.
What is the significance of John in Acts 13:5?
In Acts 13:5, John, also known as Mark, is mentioned as an assistant to Paul and Barnabas. His presence highlights the importance of teamwork in their mission to spread the word of God.
Why did Paul and Barnabas preach in synagogues according to Acts 13:5?
Paul and Barnabas preached in synagogues to connect with people who already had a foundation in the Jewish faith. This approach allowed them to effectively share their message with those more likely to understand it.
How does Acts 13:5 relate to outreach in faith?
Acts 13:5 shows a practical example of outreach by demonstrating how Paul and Barnabas engaged with a community that shared similar beliefs. It encourages believers to seek connections with those open to discussing faith.
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