FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five modern translations. Paragraphing is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author's intent, which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one main subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS
A. This is an account of Paul and Barnabas' first missionary journey. The rest of Acts will be given over to Paul's ministry.
B. It would be very helpful to turn to the map in the back of your Bible or atlas and follow the geographical locations mentioned in Acts 13, 14.
C. There is an obvious transition in Acts 13, 14 from the leadership of Barnabas to the leadership of Paul.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought-provoking, not definitive.
1. Why can Act_13:2-3 not be used as a proof-text for ordination by a select group?
2. Why did Paul preach in the synagogue first?
3. Why did John Mark leave the mission team? (cf. Act_13:13)
4. How is Act_13:39 related to Galatians 3?
5. Explain Act_13:48 b in relation to predestination and human free will.