The Mission of God Through the Life of Paul | Acts 13-28
The second half of the book of Acts shifts the story from local ministry in Jerusalem to global mission across the Roman world. Through the missionary journeys of Paul, we see how the Holy Spirit directs the spread of the gospel to the nations and fulfills God’s plan to redeem people from every background.
Paul’s First Missionary Journey
Acts 13–14
A.D. 47 to 49
The first missionary journey begins in the church at Antioch where the Spirit sets apart Paul and Barnabas. This shows that mission starts with God’s initiative rather than human strategy. The gospel reaches Cyprus and regions of Asia Minor, and Paul establishes a pattern of preaching first to the synagogue and then to the Gentiles.
This journey represents the beginning of global outreach. The Spirit guides the Church outward and demonstrates that resistance often becomes a doorway through which God brings the gospel to new communities.
Paul’s Second Missionary Journey
Acts 15–18
A.D. 49 to 52
The second journey follows a decisive moment in the early Church. The Jerusalem Council affirms that salvation comes through grace alone, which opens the way for Gentile believers to enter the family of God without the requirements of the law.
During this journey, the Spirit directs Paul through a vision of a man from Macedonia. This leads to the first preaching of the gospel in Europe. Paul’s ministry in cities like Philippi, Thessalonica, Athens, and Corinth reveals that the gospel speaks powerfully into every culture. The same message can reach both religious communities and philosophical communities when presented with wisdom and clarity.
Paul’s Third Missionary Journey
Acts 18–21
A.D. 53 to 57
Paul’s third journey focuses on strengthening believers. His long ministry in Ephesus highlights the importance of discipleship and spiritual maturity. Miracles occur, but the emphasis is on grounding believers in sound doctrine and preparing them to face cultural and spiritual pressures.
This journey shows that mission involves both reaching the lost and forming strong communities of faith. The Spirit also prepares Paul for suffering, reminding us that obedience often leads through difficult paths that become platforms for meaningful witness.
Paul’s Journey to Rome
Acts 21–28
A.D. 57 to 62
Paul’s arrest in Jerusalem sets in motion a series of trials that bring him before Jewish leaders, Roman governors, and eventually King Agrippa. Through these opportunities, Paul proclaims Christ in places of influence. His voyage to Rome includes storms, shipwreck, and unexpected ministry on Malta. At every point, the Spirit guides the outcome.
Acts ends with Paul preaching freely in Rome while under house arrest. The message is clear: the Word of God cannot be bound, and the mission of God continues despite opposition.
A Supernatural Worldview: The Spirit Who Sends the Gospel to the Nations
To read Acts 13 through 28 with understanding, we need a supernatural worldview that recognizes the Holy Spirit as the One directing the expansion of the gospel. Paul is the willing vessel, but the Spirit guides the timing, location, and influence of his ministry.
This worldview also reveals that the inclusion of the Gentiles fulfills God’s promise that all nations would be blessed through the Messiah. When the Spirit leads Paul across cultural boundaries, God’s plan for global redemption becomes visible. Everyone who calls on the name of Jesus can receive salvation and the Spirit.
Application: Living the Mission Today
Paul’s journeys teach us that God works through people who are available and surrendered. The Spirit still leads believers today just as He guided Paul.
Walking in this mission means listening for the Spirit’s direction, strengthening others in their faith, and stepping into the opportunities God provides. The book of Acts ends, but the mission continues through every believer who chooses to walk in the power of the Spirit.
For a reading on the first part of Acts (1-12), click here.