From the island of Cyprus, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, and upon arrival there, John Mark left them. Although it was disappointing for Paul that John Mark left them, Paul and Barnabas continued to travel to Antioch in Pisidia. When they arrived, they went to a synagogue, and Paul was asked if he could share any encouragement. Paul stood up and began to share that the Savior God promised through the line of David was Jesus. Paul shared about the death and resurrection of Jesus and that through Him, the forgiveness of sins was proclaimed to them. Paul also added those who believed in Him were freed from all things from which they could not be freed through the Law of Moses. After the meeting, the people invited Paul and Barnabas to speak further about what they shared. Many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas and encouraged them to continue in the grace of God (Acts 13:13-43). First Missionary Journey map.
The message about Jesus saving us from sin through faith in Him must have been a blessing to hear to many Jews who try to be forgiven by obeying the law of Moses. The law of Moses is good, and those who can live by them will be saved, but no one can follow the law of Moses. If people break one of the laws, they break the entire law, which is why they keep sacrificing animals in the temple for their forgiveness. Jesus came to bring forgiveness and freedom from sin. The Jews do not need to rely on themselves to follow God's law, but they can now rely on Jesus for their forgiveness, and Jesus fulfills the law of Moses for them.
Jesus not only forgives us for our sins when we believe in Him, but He also starts to change our hearts to become the people God wants us to be through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. So if we keep on sinning the same sin over and over again, let us not give up but keep on trusting God's forgiveness and trust in Him that He is changing our hearts daily. Changing our sinful behaviors can be a long process as the Lord renews our minds and heals our hearts. Be patient and continue to surrender our life to God.
Ask yourself these questions for application: (Think through carefully and meditate on the questions while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you) Why is it important for Jesus to save me from my sins? Can I obey God with my own power and strength? What does the Holy Spirit do in my life?
Write down all the worries you face today and lift them up to God.
Prayer:
Father in Heaven, I am forgiven of my sins because of the death and resurrection of my Lord Jesus. Would you please continue renewing my mind and healing my heart as you change me to be the person you want me to be? Please forgive me for all the sins that I have done, and continue to deliver me from sins that I keep falling into. Please help me never give up but keep trusting and surrendering my life to you. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.