The gospel is good news. Acts 13 records how Barnabas and Paul were called to proclaim this good news to the Gentiles so that people might receive salvation and life. When they arrived in Antioch, they worked diligently to spread the gospel, and many among the Gentiles believed in the Lord:

      “The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went to Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 13:49–52)

What is striking about this passage is that the final line, “…were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit,” does not immediately follow “The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.” Instead, it is placed after they faced persecution. I do not believe this means the disciples felt no joy when they saw the Gentiles believe in the Lord, nor that they forced themselves to wait until after being persecuted to rejoice. Rather, the author deliberately contrasts “joy” with “persecution,” and even with “failure.” What is going on here?

1. The disciples knew they were acting in accordance with the Lord’s plan, and that opposition from the Jews was to be expected (see vv. 46–48). The Holy Spirit filled them, giving them joy, courage, and wisdom.
2. In the ministry of evangelism, both the messenger (the disciples) and the hearers (Gentiles and Jews) have their respective roles and responsibilities. How the hearers respond is their own free choice, and it varies. The disciples saw the fruit of their evangelistic work and knew they had completed their mission. They therefore shook the dust off their feet (see Matthew 10:14; Mark 6:11; Luke 9:5).
3. Responses to the gospel will differ. Jesus’ parable of the sower teaches us to have appropriate expectations in evangelistic ministry (Luke 8:4–8).

From short-term mission experiences, I have seen brothers and sisters encounter different responses when sharing the gospel. Some make an immediate decision to put their faith in Christ, some require follow-up, and some cannot be contacted again. In daily life, when sharing the gospel with relatives and friends, it may take a period of watchful prayer before fruit is borne. Just as some seekers, after attending worship services at church and hearing the truth for a period of time, eventually bear fruit at the appointed time!

Brothers and sisters, evangelism is different from the success or failure of a sales pitch. It is the work of the Holy Spirit, and we are given the privilege of taking part in the process. This blessing has already been reserved for us. If we are willing to share, we can experience the joy of the gospel in the Holy Spirit!