Monday 28 July 2025
During the night Paul had a vision: there stood a man of Macedonia pleading with him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” (v. 9)
Background
Today's passage marks the beginning of Paul's second missionary journey and introduces key themes of guidance by the Holy Spirit, cross-cultural ministry and the expanding inclusivity of the Early Church.
Paul and Silas begin their journey by revisiting churches in Asia Minor. In Lystra, they meet Timothy, a young disciple with a Jewish mother and a Greek father. His mixed heritage becomes a strategic point: Paul has him circumcised not for salvation, but to avoid unnecessary barriers when ministering to Jews. This decision reflects Paul's flexible approach to mission, in which he balances cultural sensitivity with theological conviction.
The journey continues through Phrygia and Galatia, but Paul is "forbidden by the Holy Spirit" to preach in Asia. This divine redirection leads them to Troas, where Paul receives a vision of a man from Macedonia pleading for help. This moment is pivotal: it marks Jesus' gospel message first coming into into Europe, signalling a major shift in the mission's trajectory.
Here are some points I'd like to make:
- Timothy's inclusion (vs 1-5) shows the importance of mentorship and ministry continuing from generation to generation. Paul sees in Timothy a trustworthy partner, and his circumcision is a practical step to ensure credibility among Jewish audiences.
- Divine guidance (vs 6-10) is portrayed as both mysterious and decisive. The Holy Spirit's restraint and the Macedonian vision emphasise that mission is not just about strategy, it's about discernment and obedience to where God is leading.
- Lydia's conversion (vs 11-15) is rich with theological and social significance. A Gentile "worshiper of God" and a successful businesswoman, Lydia becomes the first recorded European convert. Her baptism – and that of her household – signals the gospel's power to cross gender, class and cultural boundaries.
To Ponder:
- In Acts 15 the Jerusalem Council decided that non-Jews did not need to be circumcised (a Jewish custom) in order to follow Jesus. Why then might Paul have chosen to circumcise Timothy?
- How does the Holy Spirit's guidance in verses 6-10 challenge our assumptions about mission and direction? What might it look like today to be "forbidden by the Holy Spirit" or redirected by a vision?
Prayer
Lord, we thank you for the example of Paul, Silas, Timothy and Lydia. They were willing to follow you, even when it meant changing their plans and going in a different direction. We ask for that same spirit of openness and obedience in our own lives. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Jonathan Gichaara
Dr Gichaara is a retired Methodist minister. He lives in the Doncaster Circuit with Elizabeth, his wife.