Acts 14:6 – “But they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding country,”

Extended Explanation

Acts 14:6 describes what Paul and Barnabas did after discovering a plot against them in Iconium. In the previous verse (Acts 14:5), both Jews and Gentiles—along with their leaders—conspired to mistreat and stone them. This was not just an argument or a minor disagreement—this was an attempt to kill them.

When Paul and Barnabas heard about the plot, they fled to the nearby Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe. This was a strategic decision, not an act of cowardice. They were not afraid to suffer for the gospel (as we see later in Paul’s life), but they also knew when to stay and when to go. Their mission was not just to suffer but to continue spreading the gospel wherever they went.

By leaving Iconium, they ensured that the message of Jesus would continue in new places, rather than being cut off completely. Their decision was both wise and Spirit-led.

Historical Context

• Iconium was a city in Galatia, a Roman province in what is now modern-day Turkey. It had a mix of Jewish and Gentile populations, which led to cultural and religious tensions.
• Paul and Barnabas had preached in the synagogue, where many Jews and Gentiles believed (Acts 14:1). But opposition arose, and the city became divided (Acts 14:4).
• When the hostility escalated into a violent plot, Paul and Barnabas had to flee. Lystra and Derbe were cities in Lycaonia, another region in Galatia. These were less influential, more rural cities compared to Iconium.

This movement from one city to another was common for early missionaries. Persecution would often force them to leave one place, only to bring the gospel to another. Instead of stopping the message, persecution spread it further.

Theological Implications

1. God Directs His Messengers – Paul and Barnabas were led by God’s wisdom. They knew when to stand firm and when to move on. This shows that faith is not reckless—God gives His people discernment.
2. The Gospel Advances Through Opposition – Instead of stopping the spread of Christianity, persecution actually caused it to reach more places. Even when the enemy tries to silence the gospel, God’s plan cannot be stopped.
3. Wisdom in the Face of Persecution – Fleeing from persecution is not a lack of faith. Jesus Himself taught His disciples to flee when necessary (Matthew 10:23). Paul and Barnabas were courageous, but they were also strategic.

Literary Analysis

This verse follows a pattern seen throughout Acts:

1. The Gospel is Preached – Paul and Barnabas share the message of Jesus.
2. Some Believe, Some Oppose – A division occurs between those who accept the truth and those who reject it.
3. Opposition Escalates – The hostility grows to the point of physical danger.
4. The Mission Moves Forward – Instead of stopping, the gospel spreads to a new location.

Luke, the author of Acts, uses action words here:

• “They found out” – Paul and Barnabas were aware of what was happening.
• “Fled to the Lycaonian cities” – They did not just leave out of fear; they went somewhere specific to continue their mission.

This shows that their journey was purposeful, not random.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 10:23 – “When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another.” (Jesus told His disciples that sometimes fleeing was necessary.)
• Acts 8:1, 4 – “On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem… Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” (Persecution led to the gospel spreading.)
• 2 Corinthians 11:25-26 – Paul later describes his many sufferings, including times he fled from danger and times he endured persecution.
• Luke 4:29-30 – “They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill… But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way.” (Even Jesus avoided danger at times when His mission was not yet complete.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. There Is Wisdom in Knowing When to Move On – Standing firm in faith does not mean being reckless. Sometimes, the best way to serve God is to move to a new opportunity, rather than staying in an impossible or dangerous situation.
2. God Uses Difficult Situations for His Purpose – Even when persecution forces believers out of their comfort zones, God can use it to spread His message further.
3. Faithfulness Doesn’t Always Mean Staying in One Place – Paul and Barnabas kept going. They didn’t quit when things got tough—they simply brought the gospel to new people.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Even in a dangerous situation, God was watching over His messengers.

• God protected Paul and Barnabas – They were able to leave before they were harmed.
• God guided them to their next mission – Their journey was not random; it was directed by Him.
• God’s love is persistent – Even when people reject the gospel, He keeps sending His message elsewhere.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself experienced opposition, and He taught His followers how to respond:

• John 15:20 – “If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” (Jesus prepared His disciples for the reality of opposition.)
• Matthew 10:14 – “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.” (Sometimes, moving on is necessary.)
• Acts 9:15-16 – When Paul was converted, Jesus told him, “This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name… I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” (Paul’s mission included suffering, but God was guiding him every step of the way.)

Paul and Barnabas followed the example of Jesus—boldly preaching but also using wisdom in how they responded to threats.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever had to leave a situation for the sake of your faith? How did you know it was the right decision?
2. Why do you think persecution often leads to the gospel spreading rather than stopping?
3. How can you stay faithful to your calling, even when faced with opposition?
4. What does this passage teach you about God’s protection and guidance?
5. How does Paul and Barnabas’ example challenge you to persevere in sharing the gospel?