Despite all the persecution, which had centred on Jerusalem after Stephen's murder, God was at work to move and use His people.  Barnabas had previously gone to Tarsus to find Saul, and bring him to Antioch where they taught many people about Jesus (Acts 11:25-26).  When Agabus prophesied a famine in Judea, the Antioch church eagerly gave money, and appointed Barnabas and Saul to deliver it to the church in Jerusalem (Acts 11:27-30).

On the island of Cyprus, Barnabas and Paul's east to west training-evangelistic tour was almost completed.  In Paphos, they met spiritual opposition from Bar-Jesus, known as Elymas 'the sorcerer'.  He was the governor's servant.  But, the more this occultist spoke badly about the trainee missionaries the more his master, Sergius Paulus, wanted to hear what they had to say about God (Acts 13:6-7).

All good communication needs to make a connection with the audience: something they already know or have experienced.  The parables of Jesus used that principle to help people to relate to His message.  In these verses, the Apostle Paul had been invited to speak in the synagogue in Antioch, in Pisidia (Acts 13:14-15).  Their worship services included prayer and a time to hear God's Word read and explained.  Paul recognised that this was a gospel opportunity; so he started by identifying with them as fellow Israelites, and warmly welcoming interested Gentiles who had come to learn the truth

The Jews always looked forward to God's Saviour.  Although they idealised their national heroes, the Scripture is quite honest about their failings.  Under David's reign the kingdom was the most extensive and wealthy, so they saw him as the model of God's Saviour to come.  Paul, teaching in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:13-14), followed their logic to introduce Jesus.  Jesus was a direct descendent of David, born in David's home city of Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).  But He was much more than a copy of David; Jesus was the real Saviour of whom David was just an imperfect model.