Since the God-fearing Jews in Pisidian Antioch asked Paul and Barnabas to stay and share again on the following Sabbath, which is every Saturday, they decided to stay and share the following Sabbath. Many people came to the following Sabbath to hear from Paul and Barnabas, but the religious Jews were jealous, and they began to contradict Paul and heaped abuse on him. Paul then told them that since they rejected the gospel and were not considered worthy of eternal life, he told them that he was turning to the Gentiles for this was the Lord Jesus commanded them, "I have made you a light to the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth." When the Gentiles heard these words, they were glad and honored the Word of God. Many of the Gentiles believed, and the Word of God continued to spread, but the religious and leading men of the city persecuted and drove Paul and Barnabas out of their town, so they went from there to Iconium. (Acts 13:44-42). First Missionary Journey map.
When the religious leaders rejected the Word of God in their town, it opened the door for the Gentiles to hear the Word of God. Throughout history, ungodly people have tried to stop the Word of God from spreading, but they always fail because no one can stop God from spreading His Word. We, as Gentiles, heard and believed in the Word of God because it spread to where we were, and it will continue to spread no matter how people try to stop the Word of God. God will fulfill His promises, just as He said, "So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it" (Isaiah 55:11).
Let us be encouraged today that the Word of God is true and that whatever God promised us in His Word will be fulfilled. God promised us these words in Isaiah 41:10, "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." Let us continue to hold on to the promises of God. Nothing can stop the Word of God until it accomplishes all its purposes. The Word of God will continue to spread to the ends of the earth no matter what opposition it encounters because God will fulfill His Word.
Ask yourself these questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully and meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speaks to you). Do I believe God will fulfill all His promises, purposes, and plans in His Word? Do I believe and accept all God's promises in my life according to His Word? How should I live my life knowing that God will fulfill His Word?
Prayer:
Father in Heaven, no one and nothing can stop your Word from spreading. Everything in this world is under your power and authority. Please help me not to be fearful and not to worry about everything that is going on around me. Your promise is true, and you will fulfill them. There is not a single moment that I am alone because of your promise that you will never leave nor forsake me. Please help me to hold on to your promises. In your name Jesus, I pray. Amen.