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Book of Acts - Chapter 13 - Verse 5

13:5
And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Acts, the apostles Paul and Barnabas are in Salamis, a city located on the eastern coast of the island of Cyprus. Here, they continue their mission to spread the word of God by preaching in the synagogues of the Jews. This was a common practice for the apostles as they traveled from place to place, sharing the message of Jesus Christ with both Jews and Gentiles. The mention of John as their minister refers to John Mark, a young disciple who accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey. John Mark helped in various capacities, such as assisting with logistics, organizing meetings, and providing support to the apostles. This verse highlights the collaborative effort among the early followers of Jesus to spread the Gospel and the importance of having dedicated individuals like John Mark to support the mission.

Theological Overview

Upon reaching Salamis, the apostles engaged in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in the synagogues among the Jewish community. The word 'preached' here indicates the proclamation of the good news and teachings of Jesus. This demonstrates the apostles' commitment to sharing the message of salvation with all people, including the Jewish population. Additionally, having John as their minister signifies his role in serving and supporting the apostles in their mission. The term 'minister' implies that John assisted the apostles in their work, providing practical help and support as they preached the word of God. This verse highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration in spreading the message of salvation and ministering to others.

American Standard Version

And when they were at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John as their attendant.
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