As the Christian church continued to spread, despite the persecutions, it pleased God to choose Paul and Barnabas as the first missionaries. After they were called by the Holy Ghost, they were sent out from Antioch and travelled through various cities of Asia preaching the gospel message. Many people believed and churches were start- ed in several cities. Their work was opposed by the devil and they even had to flee some places since the enemies of Christ sought to kill them. Yet their labors were blessed and the church flourished.