The Light of Christ Journey

Encouraging people on their journey with Christ

Don’t Miss What God is Doing

Tom Graves

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August 19, 2026

Paul concluded his message in Pisidian Antioch with a sobering caution: Don’t miss what God is doing in your midst. Acts 13:40 Be careful! Don’t let the prophets’ words apply to you.[1] He then quoted Habakkuk, a prophet in the Old Testament who warned God’s people that judgment was coming, yet they refused to believe it. Acts 13:41 ‘Look, you mockers, be amazed and die! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn’t believe even if someone told you about it.’” [2]

They saw the signs, heard the truth, and still missed what God was doing right before them. Paul’s audience now stood in a similar place. God was doing something even greater. Jesus died for our sins and fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies, yet the danger of unbelief persisted.

  This reminds us that spiritual blindness isn’t always due to a lack of information but to a hardened heart. One can hear the Gospel clearly and still dismiss it. Paul’s words urge us to examine our hearts: are we attentive to God’s work or drifting into indifference? The warning isn’t just for them but for us, too.

The Tragedy of Missing God’s Work


The prophet’s words carry a striking phrase:Acts 13:41“Look, you mockers, be amazed and die!” [3] This tension between amazement and unbelief persists today. Jesus Himself experienced this division. Some followed Him in faith, while others mocked, doubted, or walked away. The same Gospel can soften one heart and harden another. This should sober us, not surprise us. God’s work goes on regardless of response, but individuals can miss out on its blessings.

There is also a personal dimension to this warning. Sometimes we expect God to work in certain ways, and when He moves in a different way, we fail to recognize Him. We may overlook His hand, dismiss His prompting, or resist His calling because it doesn’t align with our expectations. Missing what God is doing is rarely dramatic; it often happens quietly, through neglect or unbelief.

A Call to Faithful Response


Paul’s warning is not meant to paralyze but to awaken. It calls us to respond with faith, humility, and attentiveness. God is always at work, drawing people, transforming lives, and advancing His kingdom. The question is whether we will recognize it and join Him.

This also strengthens us as we share our faith. Not everyone will respond positively, but this does not mean God is absent or inactive. On the contrary, He is working even amid mixed reactions.

So we ask ourselves: Are we open to what God is doing right now? Are we listening, watching, and responding with faith? Or are we at risk of missing His work because of doubt or distraction? Let this passage stir us to stay spiritually alert. Our Lord is moving in His Word, in our lives, and in the world around us. Don’t miss what God is doing in your life.

To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/a-message-that-divides-and-delivers

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Forgiveness Through Jesus

Tom Graves

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August 18, 2026

Forgiveness through Jesus is the heart of the Gospel and the message Paul preached. Paul delivered a clear and powerful message: Acts 13:38 “Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins.[1]This is not a distant promise or a complicated path, but a present reality. Forgiveness is not earned through effort, nor delayed until we prove ourselves worthy. It is available now through Jesus Christ.

Paul spoke with urgency because this message lies at the heart of the Gospel. Humanity’s greatest need is forgiveness. Sin separates us from a holy God, and no amount of striving under the law can bridge that gap. Yet through Jesus, forgiveness is not only possible but also freely given. This truth invites us to lay down the burden of guilt and receive the grace God extends. The message is simple yet life-changing: in Christ, forgiveness is not merely a hope; it is a reality we can step into today.

Freedom Beyond the Law


Paul continued with an explanation. Acts 13:39Everyone who believes in him is made right in God’s sight—something the law of Moses could never do. [2] Here, he highlighted a profound theological truth: the law, though holy and good, could never declare us innocent. It could reveal sin, but it could not remove it.

Through the death of Jesus, something radical has occurred. His sacrifice on the cross satisfied the justice of God, and His resurrection confirmed the acceptance of that sacrifice. Paul later clarified  Romans 4:25Jesus was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God. [3]

Because of this, those who believe are declared righteous, not because of their own merit, but because of Christ’s finished work. Jesus paid it all, and through Him, we stand forgiven when we place our faith in Him as our Savior.

The Invitation to Believe


Paul’s message ultimately calls for a response: belief. Forgiveness and justification are available to all, but they are received through faith. This echoes the words of Jesus Himself. John 3:16 For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. [4]

This invitation is deeply personal. It is not only for Paul’s audience in the synagogue but also for us today. The promise of new life, freedom from guilt, and reconciliation with God is extended to “everyone who believes.” There are no exclusions based on past failures or present struggles.

Through Christ, the slate is wiped clean, and God offers us a new beginning. The question is not whether forgiveness is available, but whether you will receive it. Will you trust in Jesus’ sacrifice? Will you rest in His finished work? The good news of the Gospel is that forgiveness through Jesus is here, now, and for you. In Christ, there is not only pardon but also a transformed life rooted in grace.

To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/a-message-that-divides-and-delivers

[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Promises Fulfilled in Christ

Paula K. Graves

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August 17, 2026

Paul’s sermon in Antioch of Pisidia shows God’s promises fulfilled in Christ. It was the custom of the synagogue leader to invite visiting rabbis to speak. Paul took advantage of this invitation, and Luke recorded what was probably the usual teaching about Jesus to a Jewish audience.

Paul began with a sketch of God’s work in Israel’s history. He demonstrated how God was always working toward bringing the Messiah despite Israel’s sin and unfaithfulness. David was a key character in their history, and Paul connected Jesus with him. Acts 13:22 David, a man about whom God said, ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart. He will do everything I want him to do.’ 23 “And it is one of King David’s descendants, Jesus, who is God’s promised Savior of Israel![1]

From History to a Warning

Then Paul drew on their history and applied its lessons to his audience. The Jews in Jerusalem had not recognized Jesus as the one the prophets spoke of. Because they did not think He was the Son of God, they killed Him. But God raised Jesus from the dead!

Acts 13: 35 Another psalm explains it more fully: ‘You will not allow your Holy One to rot in the grave.’ 36 This is not a reference to David, for after David had done the will of God in his own generation, he died and was buried with his ancestors, and his body decayed. 37 No, it was a reference to someone else—someone whom God raised and whose body did not decay. [2]

The Jewish leadership expected a political Messiah who would free them from Roman rule. This was not the Messiah God sent. These Jews missed how Jesus fulfilled all the prophecies because they could not adjust their image of the Messiah. Thus, Paul was warning his audience not to miss what God is doing through Jesus. Acts 13: 32 “And now we are here to bring you this Good News. The promise was made to our ancestors, 33 and God has now fulfilled it for us, their descendants, by raising Jesus.[3]

The Importance of the Old Testament

Often, as twenty-first-century Christians, we focus only on the New Testament. When we do that, we miss why Jesus had to come and how God fulfills His promises. In story after story in the Old Testament, God remains faithful while the people sin and rebel. They fail to follow God time and time again.

We are much the same way; we can’t save ourselves by our good works. We need God’s help, as He repeatedly promised in the Old Testament. God wanted to save the Gentiles, but the Jews became proud and refused to reach out. Jesus came as a light to the Gentiles. As a result, now both Jew and Gentile can be saved by their faith in Jesus

The stories of the Old Testament also demonstrate God’s character. He is faithful to keep His covenantal promises because He loves us. The Lord gives us rules because He doesn’t want us to face the consequences of our rebellion. He knows what is best for us. This is still true today. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/a-message-that-divides-and-delivers

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

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Grace for Those Who Fail

Tom Graves

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August 16, 2026

We all need to practice granting grace to those who fail, because at some point in our own journey, we will also fail. There is a quiet yet weighty moment during Paul’s first mission trip. Acts 13:13 Paul and his companions then left Paphos by ship for Pamphylia, landing at the port town of Perga. There John Mark left them and returned to Jerusalem.[1] No explanation is given, only the reality of withdrawal as Mark left his companions on their missionary journey.

After witnessing an intense spiritual confrontation in Paphos, he may have been overwhelmed by fear, discouragement, or the weight of ministry. Whatever the cause, he stepped away while others pressed forward. Failure often isn’t loud or dramatic; sometimes it’s simply leaving when we should stay. Yet Scripture does not erase Mark’s story here, nor does it condemn him outright. Instead, it leaves space for grace. When we falter, God does not discard us; rather, He works to restore us. This is why Jesus died for our sins.

God Can Work Through Failure


John Mark’s experience places him among a long line of imperfect servants. David fell deeply yet God restored him. Jonah ran from God’s call yet was recommissioned. Peter denied Christ yet became a bold witness. Failure is not the end of usefulness in God’s kingdom; often, it is part of the preparation. Seasons of struggle, rejection, and even retreat can become the soil in which humility and dependence take root.

For congregations walking through hardship, rejection, or discouragement, this truth is essential: human weakness does not hinder God. When doors close or opposition rises, it may feel like defeat. Yet God is often at work in unseen ways, refining hearts, redirecting paths, and preparing a greater testimony. What looks like failure can become the very means by which God’s redemptive work shines more clearly and draws others to Christ.

Restored to Faithfulness


John Mark’s story does not end in Acts 13. Later, we see a remarkable turn. Paul, who once refused to take Mark along because of his earlier departure, eventually speaks of him with respect and affection. In Colossians 4:10, Paul counted Mark among his trusted companions. In 2 Timothy 4:11, Paul wrote that Mark is “useful” to him in ministry.

Somewhere along the way through what must have been a difficult and humbling season, Mark was restored. He did not remain defined by his failure. Instead, he grew into faithfulness and became one of the Gospel writers, entrusted with proclaiming the life of Christ to generations. His life is a testimony that God’s grace not only forgives but also restores and reassigns.

For believers today, Mark’s journey offers both comfort and challenge. Comfort, because failure is not final. Challenge, because restoration calls for perseverance, repentance, and renewed faithfulness. When we face rejection or stumble under pressure, we are invited not to give up but to return because of God’s grace. In that grace, failure is not wasted; it becomes part of the story God is writing, a story that ultimately points others to His redeeming power.

To learn more about grace for those who fail, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/a-message-that-divides-and-delivers

[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Ac 13:13). Tyndale House Publishers.

Transformative Impact

Paula K. Graves

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August 15, 2026

While God can certainly transform people in an instant, there is often a progression that brings about transformative impact. The church in Antioch set apart Saul and Barnabas and then sent them out on a mission trip. But before this happened, they had sought God’s will through prayer and fasting. That was the foundation of the mission trip.

Acts 13: 2 One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” 3 So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. [1]

Luke doesn’t specifically mention that prayer continued during the trip, but I think we are safe to assume it did. Today, prayer is still an important part of reaching people with the Gospel. Pastors desire it. Missionaries have churches that pray for them. Our Heavenly Father could certainly work without our help, but He desires that His kids join Him in the work. Not all of us are sent out, but we can all pray to support those who are.

Confrontation

Most of us avoid confrontation if we can; it’s unpleasant. Yet, as Jesus Himself demonstrated, there is no advance for the Gospel without opposition. When the good news of Jesus invades enemy territory, the enemy will push back. When God does a new thing, we should expect opposition, difficulties, and problems that must be confronted.

This is exactly what happened to Paul as he was trying to witness to the governor, Sergius Paulus. Elymas, who appears to be an advisor, tried to keep the governor from believing. The Holy Spirit enabled Paul to confront Elymas boldly.

Acts 13: 10 Then he said, “You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good! Will you never stop perverting the true ways of the Lord? 11 Watch now, for the Lord has laid his hand of punishment upon you, and you will be struck blind. You will not see the sunlight for some time.” Instantly mist and darkness came over the man’s eyes, and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him. [2]

Confrontation must be Holy Spirit-led as it was with Paul. We prefer gentle persuasion, but it often only helps someone a little bit rather than transforming them. The stories of Acts demonstrate world-changing transformation, which is still possible today.

Transformed to be a Believer

Paul’s bold confrontation allowed the governor to hear the Word of God and become a believer. Acts 13: 12 When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord. [3] Notice that it was the teaching, not the miracle, that astonished the governor. “Sergius Paulus is the highest-ranking converted official recorded in the New Testament.”[4]

As a new believer, the governor had transformative impact. He would be able to influence his citizens and allow the Gospel to be preached. His family also owned much land in Pisidian Antioch, thus influencing that area. Interestingly, Paul and Barnabas travel to that area next. We must allow the Holy Spirit to guide us as we give witness to others. When we do, there will be amazing results. To learn more, listen here:

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

[4] Barton, B. B., & Osborne, G. R. (1999). Acts (p. 218). Tyndale House.

Spirit-Filled Authority

Tom Graves

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August 14, 2026

Spirit-filled authority is available to every believer and demonstrated by Paul on the island of Cyprus. Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, wanted to learn more about the Gospel, but an advisor tried to distort its message.

Acts 13: 9 Saul, also known as Paul, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he looked the sorcerer in the eye. 10 Then he said, “You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good! Will you never stop perverting the true ways of the Lord? 11 Watch now, for the Lord has laid his hand of punishment upon you, and you will be struck blind. You will not see the sunlight for some time.” Instantly mist and darkness came over the man’s eyes, and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him. [1]

 When opposition arose, Paul did not shrink back; he allowed God to fill him with the Holy Spirit. This moment marks a turning point not only in the mission but also in Paul himself. Once known as Saul, a Hebrew name, he now primarily uses his Greek name, Paul, to lead a Spirit-guided mission to the Gentiles. The authority he displayed did not come from personality, intellect, or position. It came from the Spirit of God, who actively filled and guided him. This same Spirit is with and helping believers today.

Authority that Reveals

Paul’s words to Elymas were sharp: “You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good!” [2] This wasn’t a personal insult; it was a spiritual diagnosis. Elymas had positioned himself against the Gospel, actively trying to turn others away from faith. By exposing him, Paul revealed the deeper reality behind the opposition: this was not merely human resistance, but spiritual rebellion.

Then came judgment: blindness. In a striking parallel, Paul pronounced the very condition he himself had once experienced. Elymas, who claimed spiritual insight, was shown to be blind. Sometimes God allows disruption to awaken truth. The law exposes our darkness so that we might seek the light.

Elymas groped for someone to lead him. That image is powerful. Left to ourselves, we all stumble in darkness. True guidance comes only through the Gospel. Spirit-filled authority doesn’t just confront evil; it reveals our need for rescue. It points beyond judgment to the possibility of redemption, if one is willing to see.

Power that Leads to Faith

While Elymas resisted, Sergius Paulus believed. The proconsul had invited Paul and Barnabas because he was curious about the word of God. What he witnessed confirmed what he heard. Yet Scripture emphasizes something crucial: Acts 13:12 he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord. [3] The miracle got his attention, but the message captured his heart.

The goal of Spirit-filled authority is not to impress, but to lead people to faith in Christ. The authority wasn’t his; it was Christ working through him. God’s work reaches both the resistant and the receptive. Elymas was stopped; Sergius Paulus was saved. The same Spirit moves in different ways, but always with purpose. As believers, God calls us to walk in that same Spirit, dependent, bold, and faithful. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/set-apart-and-sent-out

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Satanic Struggles

Tom Graves

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August 13, 2026

Satanic struggles began in the Garden of Eden and will continue until Jesus comes again. But never forget God is victorious! Acts 13:6–8 introduces us to a pivotal moment in the early church’s mission. Barnabas and Saul, sent out by the Holy Spirit, arrived in Cyprus ready to proclaim the Gospel.

They traveled across the island to Paphos, where they met a Jewish sorcerer, Bar-Jesus, who was a false prophet. He attached himself to the intelligent governor, Sergius Paulus, who invited Barnabas and Saul to visit him to hear God’s word. Elymas, the sorcerer, tried to distract the governor and prevent him from believing.[1]

This opposition is not a coincidence but a pattern. Wherever God’s truth advances, resistance often rises to meet it! The enemy is strategic. Elymas positioned himself to exert influence by targeting a leader open to hearing God’s Word. His goal was simple: disrupt, distort, and derail the message before it could take root.

This reminds us that opposition is not always random. Often, it appears most intensely at the very places where God is working most powerfully. If you find resistance in your efforts to live faithfully, to share truth, or to lead your family in righteousness, it may not be a sign you are off track, but that you are exactly where you need to be.

The Tactics of the Enemy

Elymas tried to deceive the governor of Paphos, Sergius Paulus, into not becoming a believer. This reflects how spiritual battles often unfold in our lives. Satanic struggles rarely begin with dramatic displays. Instead, they creep in through confusion, doubt, distraction, and counterfeit truth. Like Elymas, these forces aim to distort what is clear and lead people away from faith.

In today’s world, this can take many forms, such as false teachings, misleading ideologies, or even internal struggles that cloud our judgment. What appears as harmless or even helpful can sometimes carry deeper spiritual implications. The battle is not merely external; it is also within hearts and minds. Yet, God doesn’t call us to face this alone. Paul gives us wisdom: Ephesians 6:11Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.[2]

Victory Through the Spirit

We don’t win spiritual battles by human effort but by dependence on the Holy Spirit and God’s word. He reminds us that one of the surest ways to lose such a battle is not even to realize you’re in one. That’s why prayer, Scripture, and bold faith are essential; they become our weapons in a conflict that is often unseen. And just as Sergius Paulus ultimately came to believe, we’re reminded that no heart is beyond God’s reach.

Prayer:Lord, help me to stand firm against spiritual opposition and satanic struggles. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and give me boldness to speak Your truth. Guard the hearts of those I seek to reach, and remind me that I am never alone. Strengthen me through the support of others and lead me in victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/set-apart-and-sent-out

[1] Acts 13:6-8 Summary from the Holy Bible

[2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Eph 6:11). Tyndale House Publishers.

Spirit-Led Sending

Tom Graves

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August 12, 2026

Spirit-led sending is the amazing work of the Holy Spirit. Acts 13:4So Barnabas and Saul were sent out by the Holy Spirit.[1] These words anchor the entire mission of Barnabas and Saul. Their journey did not begin with personal ambition or strategic planning; it began with divine direction. The Holy Spirit was not merely assisting; He was initiating. This reminds us that true ministry is never self-appointed. It is Spirit-directed.

 The church in Antioch had already been seeking God through worship, fasting, and prayer. In that posture of surrender, the Spirit spoke clearly. Acts 13:2Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.[2]  The calling was not vague or general; it was specific and intentional. Even more, the Spirit’s words confirmed what God had already placed in their hearts. God often works this way. The same Spirit who sent Barnabas and Saul is still speaking. The question is not whether God is directing, but whether we are listening.

A Community That Discerns and Sends


The Antioch church models an essential truth: calling is personal, but sending is communal. They didn’t rush. After hearing the Spirit, they fasted and prayed again. They took time to align their hearts with God’s will and to intercede for those who were being sent.

Then they laid hands on Barnabas and Saul and sent them off. This act symbolized unity, blessing, and shared mission. Barnabas and Saul were not lone missionaries chasing a vision, but representatives of a Spirit-filled community.

This moment also required sacrifice. Barnabas and Saul were key leaders in a thriving, diverse church. Sending them meant losing some of their strongest voices. Yet the Antioch believers understood something profound: God’s mission is bigger than their local comfort. They trusted that obedience would lead to greater impact. Today, we, too, must be communities that not only grow but also give by releasing people for the sake of God’s kingdom. Spirit-led sending always involves both discernment and sacrifice.

The Journey Began with Obedience


Acts 13:4–5 tells us that Barnabas and Saul went down to Seleucia and sailed to Cyprus, where they began proclaiming the word of God. It’s a simple description, but it marks a powerful beginning. This was the launch of a missionary movement that would carry the Gospel far beyond its original boundaries.

Notice how ordinary the first step seems: they set sail. No detailed roadmap, just obedience. This is often how God works in our lives. He doesn’t always reveal the entire journey. He gives the next step. Our role is not to see the whole picture but to trust the One who does.

The question for all of us is, “Are we listening for the Spirit’s voice?” Are we willing to be set apart? Spirit-led sending starts with surrendered hearts and moves forward through obedient steps. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/set-apart-and-sent-out

[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Mentoring Along the Way

Tom Graves

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August 11, 2026

Mentoring along the way is the story of Paul, the mentor, and Titus, the mentee, as they walked together on their journey of faith. When Paul (Saul) and Barnabas traveled to Jerusalem, they brought Titus with them. Later, as they returned to Antioch, they brought John Mark back as well. These were not accidental travel companions; they were intentional relationships. Titus and Mark were learning not from lectures but from life. They watched Paul and Barnabas navigate challenges, defend the Gospel, and serve others. This kind of practical apprenticeship shapes a person in ways a classroom never could.

God often grows us through relationships. As you seek to walk with Jesus, one of the greatest gifts you can have is someone who walks beside you. A mentor provides more than instruction; they provide presence. They see your struggles up close, your questions in real time, and your growth over seasons. Like Titus and Mark, we learn best when we are invited into the daily rhythms of faith lived out.

Encouragement for the Climb

Spiritual growth is not a straight path. There are moments of clarity but also seasons of confusion and discouragement. This is where a mentor becomes invaluable. Scripture tells us what is important. 1 Thessalonians 5:11So encourage each other and build each other up.”[1]

When you feel uncertain, a mentor helps you refocus on God’s truth. When you stumble, a mentor reminds you of your identity in Christ. A mentor also leads by example. Their life becomes a visible testimony of faith in action. Their decisions, priorities, and responses to hardship quietly teach what it means to honor God. Often, it is not their words that leave the deepest impression, but their consistency. They show what it looks like to trust God daily, and that example serves as a guide for those following.

Investing in What Lasts

Paul knew his ministry would not last forever, but the impact of investing in others would endure. Titus, Timothy, and others were like sons in the faith whom Paul trained, encouraged, and entrusted with the work of the Gospel. Mentoring was not optional for Paul; it was essential. It was how the mission continued.

Spiritual mentorship ultimately points us toward a deeper relationship with Jesus. A mentor’s greatest desire is not to create dependence on themselves but to help you grow in faith and maturity in Christ. Many of us can look back and name someone who invested in us: a teacher, pastor, coach, or family member who helped shape our faith.

Now consider this: who might benefit from what God has taught you? Mentoring is not only something we receive; it is something God calls us to give. As you continue on your journey, ask God to guide you not only to a mentor but also to someone you can be mentoring along the way.

To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/set-apart-and-sent-out

[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (1 Th 5:11). Tyndale House Publishers.

Grace for the Gentiles

Paula K. Graves

no comments

August 10, 2026

God demonstrated His grace for the Gentiles through Saul and Barnabas. Jews had always considered that they were the only people of God and had excluded the Gentiles. However, God had always planned to include the Gentiles. The prophets had foretold what Jesus, the Messiah, would do. Isaiah 49: 6 He says, “You will do more than restore the people of Israel to me. I will make you a light to the Gentiles, and you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.” [1]

Jesus demonstrated this as He reached out to Gentiles multiple times: the Samaritan woman (John 4), the Roman centurion (Matthew 8), and a demon-possessed man in the Gadarenes (Mark 5). Jesus had foretold that believers would take the Gospel to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Now Saul and Barnabas were doing just that. A Gentile church in Antioch had collected money to support the Jewish Jerusalem church and sent it with Saul and Barnabas. There the two apostles shared what was happening with the Gentile believers with the Jerusalem church leaders.

Jewish Leaders Response

Gentiles receiving the Gospel without becoming Jews first was shocking to the Jewish believers. Yet, as Saul and Barnabas shared what they had been teaching, the Jewish Christians accepted this revolutionary concept.

Galatians 2: 6 And the leaders of the (Jerusalem) church had nothing to add to what I was preaching. (By the way, their reputation as great leaders made no difference to me, for God has no favorites.) 7 Instead, they saw that God had given me the responsibility of preaching the Gospel to the Gentiles, just as he had given Peter the responsibility of preaching to the Jews.

8 For the same God who worked through Peter as the apostle to the Jews also worked through me as the apostle to the Gentiles. 9 In fact, James, Peter, and John, who were known as pillars of the church, recognized the gift God had given me, and they accepted Barnabas and me as their co-workers. They encouraged us to keep preaching to the Gentiles, while they continued their work with the Jews.[2]

Different But Unified

Despite their differences, the leaders in Jerusalem recognized God’s grace for the Gentiles. This was the beginning of dealing with this issue. It would continue to come up until a few years later, there would be a Council meeting in Jerusalem. After Paul and Barnabas’ mission trip (Acts 13 &14) reached even more Gentiles, leadership needed to settle the dispute. There, they came to the same conclusion: God had grace for the Gentiles. They distributed a letter to the churches stating this (Acts 15).

Their acknowledgment reflects the unity all believers should strive for. Even though we may have diverse paths, our common denominator is the grace conveyed through Jesus Christ. This is how unity and encouragement within the church can embolden our mission. We must work together to spread the Gospel with our giftings just as Peter and Paul did. May we all reflect the same solidarity and vision the early apostles had for reaching the nations.

To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/set-apart-and-sent-out

[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.

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