Summary
Acts 14:1–7 – Ministry in Iconium
What happens:
Paul and Barnabas preach the gospel in the synagogue at Iconium, and a large number of Jews and Gentiles believe. But some unbelieving Jews stir up the Gentiles and poison their minds against the brothers. They remain for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirms the message of his grace by enabling signs and wonders through their hands. When the people of the city become divided, and both Gentiles and Jews attempt to mistreat and stone them, they learn of the plot and flee to Lystra and Derbe, towns of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding region, continuing to preach the good news.
What it means:
The gospel brings both acceptance and opposition. God sustains and empowers his messengers in hostile environments, using persecution to spread his word into new areas.
Acts 14:8–18 – Healing at Lystra
What happens:
In Lystra, Paul heals a man lame from birth by commanding him in the name of Jesus Christ to stand up. The crowd, witnessing the miracle, declares Barnabas “Zeus” and Paul “Hermes” and brings sacrifices to them. When the apostles tear their robes to restrain the people, they shout that they are mere humans bringing the good news of the living God, who made heaven and earth and gives all things life. They proclaim that God’s kindness leads people to repentance.
What it means:
Miracles point beyond themselves to the Creator’s power and character. The church’s true worship is directed to God alone, and his kindness invites response of repentance rather than idolatry.
Acts 14:19–28 – Return and Strengthening of the Churches
What happens:
Some Jews from Antioch and Iconium persuade the crowds in Lystra to stone Paul, who is dragged out of the city, left for dead, but survives. Paul returns to Lystra, then to Derbe, and, along with Barnabas, strengthens the disciples, encouraging them to remain in the faith despite persecution. They appoint elders in each church, with prayer and fasting entrusting them to the Lord. Then they return to Antioch in Syria, reporting all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.
What it means:
Growth often follows suffering. Shepherding new believers requires intentional leadership development and mutual encouragement. Reporting God’s faithfulness strengthens the wider community and confirms the gospel’s expansion.
Application
- Encourage one another to remain steadfast in faith when opposition arises
- Direct all praise and glory to God, guarding against tendencies to idolize leaders or gifts
- Pray for and appoint qualified leaders to nurture and protect growing communities
- Share testimonies of God’s work to inspire faith and mobilize further witness
- Trust that God’s kindness and power open hearts to the gospel, even through trials
