Faith & Reason Nexus

In a Synagogue Service:

1. First, the “Shema” would be recited (Deuteronomy 6:4), a declaration repeated by Jews several times daily: “Hear, O Israel! The Lord is Our God. The Lord is one!” (NASB).

2. Following that, certain prayers would be spoken.

3. Next, a reading from the Law (Genesis through Deuteronomy) would take place.

4. This would be followed by a reading from the Prophets, intended to illustrate the law.

5. A sermon would then be delivered. The synagogue rulers determined who would lead the service and give the sermon, with a different person chosen each week.

6. Since it was customary for the synagogue leader to invite visiting rabbis to speak, Paul and Barnabas often had an open door when they went to a synagogue. However, as soon as they spoke about Jesus as the Messiah, the door would often close. They were not always invited back by the religious leaders, and sometimes they were even thrown out of town!

The invitation from the synagogue rulers was generally to speak a message of encouragement. This presented an open opportunity for the gospel. Despite potential resistance, Paul found encouragement in sharing the news of God coming to earth, opening a door to heaven, providing atonement for sin, and offering new life in Jesus Christ. Such an invitation was all Paul needed.