34. “God raised Jesus from the dead, never again to be subjected to death’s decay. Therefore, God said, I will give to you the holy and firm promises I made to David.
35. In another place it is said, You will not let your holy one experience death’s decay.
36. David served God’s purpose in his own generation, then he died and was buried with his ancestors. He experienced death’s decay,
37. but the one whom God has raised up didn’t experience death’s decay.
38. "Therefore, brothers and sisters, know this: Through Jesus we proclaim forgiveness of sins to you. From all those sins from which you couldn’t be put in right relationship with God through Moses’ Law,
39. through Jesus everyone who believes is put in right relationship with God.
40. Take care that the prophets’ words don’t apply to you:
41. Look, you scoffers, marvel and die. I’m going to do work in your day — a work you won’t believe even if someone told you."
42. As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people urged them to speak about these things again on the next Sabbath.
43. When the people in the synagogue were dismissed, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism accompanied Paul and Barnabas, who urged them to remain faithful to the message of God’s grace.
44. On the next Sabbath, almost everyone in the city gathered to hear the Lord’s word.
45. When the Jews saw the crowds, they were overcome with jealousy. They argued against what Paul was saying by slandering him.
46. Speaking courageously, Paul and Barnabas said, "We had to speak God’s word to you first. Since you reject it and show that you are unworthy to receive eternal life, we will turn to the Gentiles.