Blessing and Conflict at Antioch

42 5So when the Jews went out of the synagogue, the Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath. 43 Now when the congregation had broken up, many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas, who, speaking to them, dpersuaded them to continue in ethe grace of God.

44 On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. 45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they fopposed the things spoken by Paul. 46 Then Paul and Barnabas grew bold and said, g“It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken to you first; but hsince you reject it, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, behold, iwe turn to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us:

j‘I have set you as a light to the Gentiles,

That you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ”

48 Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. kAnd as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed.

49 And the word of the Lord was being spread throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city, lraised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51 mBut they shook off the dust from their feet against them, and came to Iconium.