Scripture
6 They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, 7 who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God. 8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith. 9 Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, 10 “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord? 11 Now the hand of the Lord is against you. You are going to be blind for a time, not even able to see the light of the sun.”
Immediately mist and darkness came over him, and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand. 12 When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord.
Reflection
The adventure begins, to bring the gospel to places where they have never heard about Jesus. The first place they go is Cyprus, it’s close and it is where Barnabas is from. Attempting to advance the Kingdom of God no matter how close or how familiar can bring opposition as it does here. The soul of the proconsul is highly valued and the evil one creates a distraction but the Holy Spirit and Paul will have none of it! (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- For Barbabas and Paul Cyprus was their mission field (for now). Where is your mission field?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- What is one way you can apply this truth to your life today?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Follow the ACTS acronym in prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication (Asking).
