Acts 13:5

And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to [their] minister.

And {G2532} when they were {G1096} at {G1722} Salamis {G4529}, they preached {G2605} the word {G3056} of God {G2316} in {G1722} the synagogues {G4864} of the Jews {G2453}: and {G1161} they had {G2192} also {G2532} John {G2491} to their minister {G5257}.

After landing in Salamis, they began proclaiming the word of God in the synagogues, with Yochanan (Mark) as an assistant;

When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. And John was with them as their helper.

And when they were at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John as their attendant.

Commentary

Context

Acts 13:5 marks the initial phase of Paul's (formerly Saul) and Barnabas's significant first missionary journey, following their commissioning by the Holy Spirit in Antioch. Their first stop was Salamis, a major port city on the eastern coast of Cyprus. This verse immediately reveals their strategic approach to evangelism: beginning their outreach within the established Jewish communities.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Strategic Evangelism: Paul and Barnabas consistently initiated their ministry in the Jewish synagogues. This was a practical and logical starting point, as synagogues provided a ready audience already familiar with the Old Testament scriptures, offering a natural bridge for presenting Jesus as the promised Messiah.
  • The Centrality of God's Word: Their core mission was to "preach the word of God," emphasizing that the divine message itself, rooted in revelation, was the foundational element of their ministry. This highlights the transformative power of God's authoritative message, as faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
  • Teamwork and Support in Ministry: The inclusion of John Mark as "their minister" (or assistant) underscores the collaborative nature of early Christian missions. Even seasoned apostles like Paul and Barnabas valued the support and assistance of others in their endeavors. This partnership was crucial for the extensive work ahead.

Linguistic Insights

The term "minister" used for John Mark in this verse is translated from the Greek word hyperetes (ὑπηρέτης). This word originally referred to an "under-rower" on a ship, implying a subordinate or assistant. In a broader sense, it denotes an attendant, servant, or helper. This highlights John Mark's role not as an equal apostle, but as a valuable aide providing practical support and assistance to Paul and Barnabas in their primary evangelistic work.

Practical Application

Acts 13:5 offers enduring lessons for believers today. It reminds us of the importance of being strategic and intentional in sharing the Gospel, starting where there is an openness to hear. It also underscores the foundational role of God's authoritative Word in all ministry endeavors—it is the source of truth, guidance, and transformation. Furthermore, the inclusion of John Mark illustrates the vital role of teamwork and the value of every contributor in ministry, no matter their specific role. Every individual's contribution, whether front-facing or behind the scenes, is essential for effectively spreading the good news of Jesus Christ.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 13:14 (6 votes)

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

  • Acts 13:46 (5 votes)

    Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

  • Acts 12:12 (3 votes)

    And when he had considered [the thing], he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.

  • Acts 17:17 (3 votes)

    Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

  • Acts 18:4 (3 votes)

    And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

  • Acts 9:20 (3 votes)

    And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

  • Acts 19:8 (3 votes)

    ¶ And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.