In Antioch of Pisidia, Paul and Barnabas preached boldly in the synagogue. Many listeners were drawn to their message, but opposition quickly arose from some Jewish leaders. Undeterred, the apostles responded with prophetic clarity: the Gospel was first offered to the Jews, but now, since they rejected it, the Good News would go to the Gentiles. Paul quoted Isaiah’s prophecy, revealing their divine commission—to be “a light to the Gentiles.” The Gentiles rejoiced, the Word spread, but persecution intensified. The apostles, shaking the dust from their feet, left the city. And what remained? A community “filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.”

Peter and the apostles had been arrested again. The Sanhedrin, the powerful religious council of Jerusalem, was outraged: “We gave you strict orders to stop teaching in that name.” But the apostles would not be silenced. Peter responded with courage and clarity: “We must obey God rather than men.” He proclaimed Jesus—the one they crucified, whom God has now exalted as “leader and savior.” Though threatened and dishonored, the apostles left rejoicing that they were found worthy to suffer for the Name. This is a moment of defiant faith and holy joy in the face of persecution.