Who did Paul encounter in Paphos during his first missionary journey?

Who did Paul encounter in Paphos during his first missionary journey?

• A. A Roman centurion.
• B. A Pharisee on trial.
• C. A trader of goods.
• D. A sorcerer named Barjesus.

Answer: (D)

This question tests your knowledge of Paul’s first missionary journey and the encounter in Paphos. In Cyprus, Paul and Barnabas arrive in Paphos where they meet Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, but they are opposed by a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus (also called Elymas the magician). He attempts to hinder their message, but Paul, empowered by the Spirit, rebukes him and he is struck with temporary blindness. This dramatic moment demonstrates the confrontation between the gospel’s truth and magical opposition, and it leads Sergius Paulus to believe. So the figure Paul encounters in Paphos is Bar-Jesus, the sorcerer.

This question tests your knowledge of Paul’s first missionary journey and the encounter in Paphos. In Cyprus, Paul and Barnabas arrive in Paphos where they meet Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, but they are opposed by a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus (also called Elymas the magician). He attempts to hinder their message, but Paul, empowered by the Spirit, rebukes him and he is struck with temporary blindness. This dramatic moment demonstrates the confrontation between the gospel’s truth and magical opposition, and it leads Sergius Paulus to believe. So the figure Paul encounters in Paphos is Bar-Jesus, the sorcerer.