Acts 13:50

KJV

But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} the Jews {G2453} stirred up {G3951} the devout {G4576} and {G2532} honourable {G2158} women {G1135}, and {G2532} the chief men {G4413} of the city {G4172}, and {G2532} raised {G1892} persecution {G1375} against {G1909} Paul {G3972} and {G2532} Barnabas {G921}, and {G2532} expelled {G1544} them {G846} out of {G575} their {G846} coasts {G3725}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the women ‘God-fearers’ of high social standing and the leading men of the city, and they organized persecution against Sha’ul and Bar-Nabba and expelled them from their district.

Berean Standard Bible

The Jews, however, incited the religious women of prominence and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and drove them out of their district.

American Standard Version

But the Jews urged on the devout women of honorable estate, and the chief men of the city, and stirred up a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and cast them out of their borders.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 13:50 chronicles a significant turning point in Paul and Barnabas's first missionary journey, detailing the orchestrated opposition they encountered in Antioch of Pisidia. Despite the widespread acceptance of the Gospel among Gentiles, certain Jewish factions, leveraging the influence of prominent "devout and honourable women" and "chief men of the city," incited a severe persecution that ultimately led to the expulsion of the apostles from the region. This event underscores the persistent hostility faced by early Christian evangelists and highlights the strategic, yet ultimately futile, efforts to suppress the burgeoning message of Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a period of remarkable success for Paul and Barnabas in Antioch of Pisidia. After preaching in the synagogue, where many Jews and devout proselytes responded positively, the apostles then turned their focus to the Gentiles due to Jewish rejection of the message [Acts 13:46](/acts/13-46 "Acts 13:46 - Paul turns to the Gentiles"). This shift led to an explosive growth of the Gospel, with "the word of the Lord [being] published throughout all the region" [Acts 13:49](/acts/13-49 "Acts 13:49 - The Word Spreads"). The widespread acceptance among the Gentiles, however, intensified the jealousy and opposition from those Jews who had rejected the message, setting the stage for the direct confrontation and expulsion described in Acts 13:50. This incident marks a pattern seen throughout Acts, where initial success is often met with fierce resistance, propelling the apostles to new territories.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Antioch of Pisidia was a Roman colony in the province of Galatia, strategically important with a diverse population including a significant Jewish community and many Gentile "God-fearers" (Gentiles who worshipped the God of Israel but had not fully converted to Judaism). These God-fearers, particularly women, often held respected positions in society and were drawn to the monotheism and moral framework of Judaism. The "chief men of the city" would have been local magistrates or leading citizens, whose influence was crucial in maintaining public order and shaping local opinion. The Jewish leaders' ability to "stir up" such influential figures indicates a calculated move to use social and political pressure, rather than theological debate, to suppress the Christian message. This was a common tactic in the Roman world, where accusations of disturbing the peace or introducing new, unauthorized religions could lead to official persecution.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 13:50 powerfully illustrates several recurring themes in the book of Acts and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it highlights the **persistent opposition to the Gospel**, demonstrating that the spread of God's Word often provokes hostility from those whose established authority, traditions, or worldview are challenged. Secondly, it underscores the **persecution of God's messengers**, as Paul and Barnabas, like many apostles before and after them, faced physical danger and expulsion for their faithfulness. This resonates with the prophetic warnings of Jesus concerning the treatment of His followers [John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - Persecution of Disciples"). Thirdly, the verse reveals the **strategic influence of key figures** in either promoting or hindering the Gospel. The involvement of "devout and honourable women" and "chief men of the city" shows how respected members of a community, even those with religious inclinations, can be swayed to oppose truth. Finally, despite the adversity, this expulsion paradoxically serves the **divine purpose of Gospel expansion**, forcing the apostles to move to new regions and thereby fulfilling the Great Commission to preach to all nations [Acts 14:1](/acts/14-1 "Acts 14:1 - Paul and Barnabas in Iconium").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **stirred up (Greek, _parotrýnō'_):** From G3951, meaning "to urge along, i.e. stimulate (to hostility)." This word conveys a deliberate and active instigation, suggesting that the Jewish leaders did not merely express disapproval but actively incited others to act against Paul and Barnabas. It implies a calculated effort to provoke a hostile reaction from influential members of the community, turning their religious zeal or civic authority into a weapon against the apostles.
* **honourable (Greek, _euschḗmōn'_):** From G2158, meaning "well-formed, i.e. (figuratively) decorous, noble (in rank)." This term describes the social standing of the women involved, indicating they were respected, influential, and likely from the upper echelons of society. Their "honourable" status would have lent significant weight and legitimacy to the opposition, making it difficult for Paul and Barnabas to counter the accusations and avoid expulsion.
* **expelled (Greek, _ekbállō'_):** From G1544, meaning "to eject (literally or figuratively)." This powerful verb signifies a forceful removal, a driving out. It highlights the severity of the persecution, indicating that Paul and Barnabas were not simply asked to leave but were forcibly driven from the city's jurisdiction. This act of expulsion was a direct consequence of the stirred-up hostility and marked a definitive end to their ministry in Antioch of Pisidia.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women,"**: This clause introduces the primary antagonists, "the Jews," who, in contrast to the positive reception of the Gospel by many Gentiles, actively instigated opposition. They targeted a specific and influential demographic: "the devout and honourable women." These women were likely Gentile God-fearers or proselytes of high social standing, whose religious piety and respected position made them potent instruments for inciting public sentiment against the apostles.
* **"and the chief men of the city,"**: The instigation extended beyond the women to include "the chief men of the city," referring to the leading citizens, magistrates, or civic authorities. Their involvement indicates that the opposition gained official or semi-official sanction, transforming local discontent into a formal act of persecution, leveraging their power and influence to achieve their aims.
* **"and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas,"**: The direct outcome of this incitement was the "raised persecution." This signifies a concerted, organized effort to harass, accuse, and oppress Paul and Barnabas, making their continued ministry in the city untenable. The persecution was not merely verbal opposition but a tangible campaign of hostility.
* **"and expelled them out of their coasts."**: The climax of the opposition was the forceful "expulsion" of Paul and Barnabas. To be "expelled... out of their coasts" means they were driven out of the entire region or territory under the city's jurisdiction. This act effectively ended their mission in Antioch of Pisidia, forcing them to depart and seek new fields for ministry, demonstrating the extent of the opposition's success in removing the apostles.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 13:50 effectively employs several literary devices to convey the intensity and nature of the opposition. **Antithesis** is evident in the stark contrast between the preceding verses, which describe the widespread acceptance of the Gospel among the Gentiles, and this verse, which details the fierce rejection and persecution by certain Jewish factions and influential citizens. This creates a dramatic tension, highlighting the spiritual battle at play. There is also a strong element of **Irony** in the fact that "devout and honourable women" and "chief men," individuals who might be expected to uphold justice or be open to spiritual truth, are instead manipulated and become instruments of persecution. This underscores how deeply entrenched prejudice can corrupt even seemingly virtuous individuals. Finally, the verse is a clear example of **Conflict** or **Antagonism**, portraying the direct confrontation between the nascent Christian movement and the established religious and civic powers. The active verbs "stirred up," "raised," and "expelled" emphasize the aggressive and deliberate nature of this opposition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 13:50 profoundly illustrates the enduring truth that the proclamation of the Gospel often elicits a strong reaction, both positive and negative. The opposition faced by Paul and Barnabas is not an anomaly but a recurring pattern throughout biblical history and Christian experience. It reveals the spiritual warfare inherent in advancing God's kingdom, where light exposes darkness and truth confronts falsehood. This persecution, while seemingly a setback, often serves God's sovereign purpose, redirecting His messengers to new territories and thus accelerating the spread of the Gospel, demonstrating that human opposition cannot ultimately thwart divine plans.

* [Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Fleeing Persecution")
* [John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - The World Will Hate You")
* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godly Living")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 13:50 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today that faithfulness to the Gospel message may inevitably lead to opposition. Just as Paul and Barnabas faced hostility from influential segments of society, Christians should not be surprised when their commitment to Christ and His truth generates resistance, whether it be overt persecution, social ostracism, or professional marginalization. This verse challenges us to examine our own readiness to stand firm in the face of adversity, trusting that God's purposes will prevail even when human efforts seek to suppress His word. It also prompts us to consider the various ways influence is wielded in our communities and to pray for those in positions of authority, that they might be instruments of justice and truth, rather than tools of opposition. Ultimately, the apostles' response of simply moving on to new fields of ministry teaches us resilience and a steadfast focus on the mission, knowing that God can use even expulsion to expand His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the opposition faced by Paul and Barnabas in Antioch of Pisidia resonate with challenges believers might encounter in proclaiming the Gospel today?**
* **What role do "devout and honourable" people or "chief men" play in influencing public opinion, and how can believers wisely engage with or respond to such influence?**
* **When faced with rejection or persecution for your faith, what is your immediate inclination, and how might the example of Paul and Barnabas encourage a different response?**

### FAQ
**Why were "devout and honourable women" involved in stirring up persecution?**

Answer: The "devout and honourable women" were likely Gentile God-fearers or proselytes who had adopted aspects of Jewish faith and held respected positions in Antioch of Pisidia's society. Their involvement in stirring up persecution against Paul and Barnabas was likely due to the influence of the Jewish leaders who felt threatened by the apostles' message, especially their turning to the Gentiles after Jewish rejection [Acts 13:46](/acts/13-46 "Acts 13:46 - Paul turns to the Gentiles"). These women, perhaps swayed by existing religious loyalties, social pressures, or misinterpretations of the Christian message, lent their considerable social standing and influence to the opposition, making the persecution more effective and widespread. Their piety did not guarantee openness to the new revelation in Christ, demonstrating how even religious devotion can be misdirected.

**Did Paul and Barnabas give up after being expelled?**

Answer: Absolutely not. The book of Acts consistently shows Paul and Barnabas, and indeed other apostles, responding to persecution not by giving up, but by moving to new locations to continue their ministry. Immediately following their expulsion from Antioch of Pisidia, [Acts 14:1](/acts/14-1 "Acts 14:1 - Paul and Barnabas preach in Iconium") records that they "came to Iconium, and went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed." This demonstrates their unwavering commitment to the Great Commission and their understanding that God often uses such setbacks to open new doors for the Gospel, fulfilling Jesus' instruction to "flee to another" city when persecuted [Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Flee to another city").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The persecution and expulsion of Paul and Barnabas in Acts 13:50 find profound Christ-centered fulfillment, echoing the suffering and rejection experienced by Jesus Himself. Just as "the Jews" and influential leaders stirred up opposition against the apostles, so too did the religious and civic authorities conspire against Christ, leading to His crucifixion [John 19:15-16](/john/19-15-16 "John 19:15-16 - Jesus Crucified"). Jesus Himself warned His disciples that they would face similar treatment, stating, "If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you" [John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - Persecution of Disciples"). The expulsion of Paul and Barnabas, while a painful experience, also mirrors Christ's ultimate victory through apparent defeat. His death on the cross, seemingly a complete rejection, became the means of salvation for all who believe [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - Christ Died for Us"). Similarly, the apostles' forced departure from Antioch of Pisidia did not end the spread of the Gospel but rather propelled it to new territories, fulfilling the Great Commission that began with Christ's ascension and the sending of the Holy Spirit [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness"). Thus, the suffering of the apostles becomes a participation in the sufferings of Christ, and their resilience in the face of rejection testifies to the unstoppable power of the resurrected Lord, who continues to build His church even amidst opposition [Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - I Will Build My Church").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 13:45

But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

Acts 14:2

But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.

Acts 14:19

¶ And there came thither [certain] Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew [him] out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

Acts 17:13

But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.

Acts 21:27

¶ And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,

2 Timothy 3:11

Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of [them] all the Lord delivered me.

Acts 16:37

But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast [us] into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.