Acts 13:42

¶ And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.

And {G1161} when the Jews {G2453} were gone {G1826} out of {G1537} the synagogue {G4864}, the Gentiles {G1484} besought {G3870} that these {G5023} words {G4487} might be preached {G2980} to them {G846}{G1519} the next {G3342} sabbath {G4521}.

As they left, the people invited Sha’ul and Bar-Nabba to tell them more about these matters the following Shabbat.

As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people urged them to continue this message on the next Sabbath.

And as they went out, they besought that these words might be spoken to them the next sabbath.

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Commentary

Acts 13:42 KJV Commentary: The Gentiles' Eagerness for the Gospel

Context

This pivotal verse occurs during Paul and Barnabas's first missionary journey, specifically in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisidia. Paul had just delivered a powerful sermon, tracing God's redemptive plan from Israel's history through to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, offering forgiveness of sins through Him (Acts 13:16-41). His message resonated deeply, particularly with the Gentiles present, who, unlike some of the Jews who had departed, eagerly desired to hear more. This verse highlights the initial positive response that would lead to a significant expansion of the Gospel among non-Jews.

Key Themes

  • Gentile Receptivity: This verse marks a crucial moment in the early church's mission, demonstrating that while the Gospel was first presented to the Jews, the Gentiles were increasingly open and responsive to its message. Their eagerness here foreshadows the broader Gentile mission that would become central to Paul's ministry.
  • Eagerness for God's Word: The phrase "the Gentiles besought" reveals a profound spiritual hunger. They didn't just passively listen; they actively requested further instruction, signifying a genuine desire to understand and embrace the "words" (the Gospel message) Paul had preached. This contrasts sharply with the indifference or rejection shown by some Jewish listeners.
  • The Expanding Scope of the Gospel: The scene in Antioch of Pisidia vividly illustrates how the Good News of Jesus Christ was breaking free from its initial Jewish confines and reaching out to all nations, fulfilling prophecies about God's universal salvation (e.g., Isaiah 49:6).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "besought" comes from the Greek word parekaloun (παρεκάλουν), which is the imperfect tense of parakaleo (παρακαλέω). This imperfect tense suggests a continuous, repeated, or earnest pleading. It implies that the Gentiles weren't just making a polite request, but were earnestly and persistently urging Paul and Barnabas to preach these words again. This conveys their deep spiritual longing and enthusiasm for the message of salvation and their desire for further instruction.

Practical Application

Acts 13:42 serves as a powerful reminder of God's inclusive love and the universal call of the Gospel.

  • Openness to Truth: It encourages believers to be open to where God is working, recognizing that spiritual hunger can be found in unexpected places and among diverse peoples. Just as the Gentiles eagerly sought the Word, we should cultivate a similar desire to hear and learn more about God's truth.
  • The Urgency of Sharing: The Gentiles' request underscores the importance of making the Gospel accessible to all. It challenges us to share the message of Christ with those who are eager to hear, regardless of their background or previous religious affiliation, knowing that God is preparing hearts.
  • Divine Orchestration: This verse beautifully illustrates how God sovereignly guides the spread of His kingdom, often using the responses of some to open new doors for others. It encourages faith that God's plan for salvation will prevail and reach the ends of the earth.
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Cross-References

  • Acts 28:28

    Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and [that] they will hear it.

  • Matthew 11:21

    Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.

  • Acts 13:14

    ¶ But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.

  • Matthew 19:30

    But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first.

  • Ezekiel 3:6

    Not to many people of a strange speech and of an hard language, whose words thou canst not understand. Surely, had I sent thee to them, they would have hearkened unto thee.

  • Acts 10:33

    Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.
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