UNSTOPPABLE: Sent by the Spirit (Acts 13:1–52)

“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” Acts 13:2

“He was a man of intelligence, who summoned Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God…“But Elymas the magician... opposed them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith.” Acts 13:7-8

“You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy...Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord.” Acts 13:10, 12

“Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. And by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.” Acts 13:38-39

“Look, you scoffers, be astounded and perish...” Acts 13:41

As they went out, the people begged that these things might be told them the next Sabbath. And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God. The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him. (Acts 13:42-45)

And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. (Acts 13:46-48)

And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region.” (Acts 13:49)

And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 13:52)

• is no without
• means I give up
• cannot help but produce
• means I move with (Proverbs 3:5)

PERSONAL / GROUP REFLECTION

• Where in your life are you asking God for clarity while resisting consecration?
  • What would it practically look like to say, “My yes is already Yours,” before knowing all the details?
• What are you still trying to control that may be preventing deeper obedience to the Holy Spirit?
  • Is there a comfort, relationship, identity, habit, fear, or plan you are struggling to surrender?
• How do you typically respond when obedience creates conflict or resistance?
  • Do you interpret opposition as a sign to retreat, or could it sometimes be evidence that your obedience is threatening darkness, idols, or competing allegiances?
• If the Holy Spirit said “go” today, what would keep you from moving with conviction?
  • What fears, attachments, uncertainties, or competing priorities most challenge your willingness to obey immediately and fully?

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