Acts 13:5 (KJV)

What does Acts 13:5 mean?

Acts 13:5 describes how, upon arriving at Salamis, Paul and Barnabas began teaching the message about God in the Jewish synagogues, and they had John (also called Mark) assisting them as a helper. This verse shows the start of their missionary work on the island of Cyprus, with John Mark serving in a supporting role.

Paul and Barnabas are the main figures here, traveling together on their first missionary journey. They begin their outreach by speaking in synagogues, which were Jewish places of worship, indicating they started by sharing their message with fellow Jews. John Mark’s mention as their "minister" means he was helping them, likely with practical tasks or as an assistant, not as a leader or preacher.

The Greek behind Acts 13:5

• The word "minister" is from the Greek διάκονος (diakonos, here tagged as G5257), which is often understood as a servant or assistant. In this context, it suggests John Mark was supporting Paul and Barnabas in practical ways rather than leading the teaching.
• The word "preached" comes from the Greek καταγγέλλω (katangellō, G2605), which means to announce or proclaim publicly. This emphasizes that Paul and Barnabas were openly sharing their message, not just having private conversations.
• The term "synagogues" is from the Greek συναγωγαῖς (synagōgais, G4864), meaning Jewish gathering places for worship and teaching. This shows their strategy of starting their mission among Jewish communities.

Why Acts 13:5 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul and Barnabas began their mission by reaching out to Jews first, which was a common pattern in their ministry.
• The mention of John Mark as a helper sets up his later role in Acts and shows that missionary work involved teamwork and practical support, not just preaching.
• The setting in Salamis, a major city on Cyprus, highlights the intentional choice of significant locations for spreading their message.