Paul, supporting himself as a tentmaker, works in the early 40s with Christians from Antioch in the first organized Christian mission to Cyprus and south Galatia.

The author of the Acts arranges Paul's travels into three separate journeys.

The first journey [Acts 13-14], led initially by Barnabas, who had introduced Paul to the apostles after Paul's conversion, takes Paul from Antioch to Cyprus then southern Asia Minor (Anatolia), and back to Antioch.

Accompanying him are an assistant John Marcus, known as Mark, the son of Mary of Jerusalem (whose house was used as a gathering place by early Christians).

In Cyprus, Paul rebukes and blinds Elymas the magician [Ac 13:8-12] who was criticizing their teachings.

From this point on, Paul is described as the leader of the group.

They sail to Perga in Pamphylia.

John Mark leaves them abruptly and returns to Jerusalem.

Paul and Barnabas go on to Pisidian Antioch.

On the Sabbath they go to the synagogue.

The leaders invite them to speak.

Paul reviews Israelite history from life in Egypt to King David.

He introduces Jesus as a descendant of David brought to Israel by God.

He says that his team came to town to bring the message of salvation.

He recounts the story of Jesus' death and resurrection.

He quotes from the Septuagint to assert that Jesus was the promised Christos who brought them forgiveness for their sins.

Both the Jews and the 'God-fearing' Gentiles invited them talk more the next Sabbath.

At this time, almost the whole city gathers.

This upsets some influential Jews who speak against them.

Paul uses the occasion to announce a change in his mission which from then on would be to the Gentiles.

[Ac 13:13-48] Antioch serves as a major Christian center for Paul's evangelizing.