The Holy Spirit called Barnabas and Saul (also called Paul) to a special mission in Antioch, and the church sent them out.

They travelled with John Mark to Cyprus, preaching in the synagogues. When the governor heard their message, a sorcerer tried to oppose them. Paul rebuked him, and the man was struck blind. The governor, amazed, believed in Jesus.

Paul and Barnabas then continued to the mainland. In the synagogue, Paul proclaimed that Jesus fulfilled God’s promise as the Savior from David’s line, who was crucified but raised from the dead. Through Him comes forgiveness of sins.

Some believed, but others rejected the message. When opposition grew, Paul declared they would now turn to the Gentiles. Many Gentiles received the word with joy, and the gospel spread throughout the region.

Though persecution eventually forced them to leave, the disciples remained filled with the Holy Spirit and joy.