MPV Commentary

Arriving in Cyprus They Preach in the Synagogues of Salamis--At Paphos, Elymas Is Struck Blind, and the Governor of the Island Is Converted.

The apostles departed from Antioch to Seleucia, a seaport city about fifteen miles west of Antioch. From there they sailed to Cyprus, an island that was easily visible from the coast in clear weather. There were several reasons why they chose to visit this island first: its proximity to the mainland, the presence of Barnabas's family ties, and the fact that some Cypriotes had already become Christians.

When they arrived at Salamis, a major commercial center with a large Jewish population, they found more than one synagogue where they could preach. They preached in these synagogues, accompanied by John (also known as Mark), who was likely Barnabas's cousin or close relative. The text does not specify the outcome of their preaching at this time.

After traveling through the island to Paphos, a Roman capital on the western side, they encountered a sorcerer named Elymas, who was associated with the deputy (or governor) Sergius Paulus. This sorcerer was known for his magical arts and had likely gained influence over the deputy.

The deputy, however, was a man of discernment and was eager to hear the Word of God. He sent for Barnabas and Saul, asking them to share their message with him. Elymas, sensing that the deputy was receptive to their teaching, attempted to thwart their efforts by opposing them.

Saul, filled with the Holy Spirit, confronted Elymas, calling him a child of the devil, an enemy of all righteousness, and someone who had made a living by leading people astray. He warned Elymas to stop perverting the right ways of the Lord. The Lord then struck Elymas blind for a season as a merciful judgment, designed to lead him to repentance.

The deputy was astonished by this miraculous event and became a believer in the doctrine of the Lord. Unfortunately, we do not know what fruit followed from his conversion or how long the missionaries remained at Paphos.