It would appear that there was no synagogue in Lystra. The fact, then, that Paul and Barnabas preached in this city, even if they had not gone there expressly for this purpose, marks yet another important departure for the church. Moreover, since there was no audience prepared for their message (see note on 13:14), a new approach in its presentation was called for. Something of what this was is evident in these verses, which include a brief impromptu speech addressed to a pagan audience. The speech is incomplete as a statement of the gospel, for it lacks any mention of the cross and the resurrection of Jesus. It is more a preamble to the gospel, laying a foundation in a precise statement of natural theology.

In contrast with the previous section, these verses present a narrative rich in de…