What is the context?
The first response includes a request to hear more on the next Sabbath. Many Jews and devout converts to Judaism follow Paul and Barnabas, who encourage them to continue in God’s grace. Luke therefore describes a positive response among Jewish hearers before describing opposition.
The word behind devout comes from σέβομαι (sebomai, SEH-boh-my), meaning to show deep respect or worship. Thayer’s entry specifically includes the devout converts in verse 43. The description concerns their reverence for God; it does not by itself tell us everything about each person’s response to Jesus.
On the next Sabbath, nearly the whole city comes to hear. Opponents among the Jewish hearers react with jealousy and contradict Paul. He and Barnabas explain why the word came to them first and announce their turn toward the Gentiles, citing the command to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.
The Gentiles rejoice, those appointed for eternal life believe, and the word spreads through the region. Opposition then draws in prominent religious women and leading men, and the messengers are driven out. They go to Iconium, while the disciples are filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly read the encouragement as a call to remain in the grace they are receiving through the message about Jesus. Wesley on verse 43 understands it as continuing to adhere to the gospel or Christian faith.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Paul and Barnabas explicitly apply Isaiah 49:6 to the mission: God’s salvation is to reach the ends of the earth. In Isaiah, the servant’s work includes restoring Israel and being a light for the nations. The Gentile welcome is therefore presented as part of God’s declared purpose, not a last-minute substitute invented because one meeting became hostile.
The continuing spread of the word and the disciples’ joy also show that expulsion does not end the work. This community has received teaching and encouragement to continue in grace, and its life in the Spirit carries on after the messengers leave.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.