Time To Leave

Pete Kersker - Jul 20, 2026

The word of the Lord spread through the whole region (Acts 13:49 NIV).

Paul (Saul) and Barnabas (Joseph) were called by the Holy Spirit to leave Antioch (in Syria) and travel to spread the good news (gospel) about Jesus. They went to the island of Cyprus, where Barnabas was raised. Sailing and walking to the north, then, they shared the gospel (good news) in Antioch (in Pisidia). The people responded to the message in droves.

But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region (Acts 13:50 NIV).

Even with many people responding positively, those who reacted negatively stirred up a mob to come after them. Paul and Barnabas had a decision to make: should they stay or should they go. The Lord led them to leave and go to the next town.

So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went to Iconium (Acts 13:51 NIV).

Have you ever been in a situation where some people wanted you to stay, but others wanted you to go?

Did you stay or did you go? How did you decide?
Did the Lord lead you? How?