Evangelism and Persecution in Iconium (Acts 14:1-7)

Preaching in Iconium

Paul and Barnabas continue their missionary work in Iconium. They speak in the Jewish synagogue, delivering a message so powerful that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believe. Their ability to reach across cultural and religious divides highlights the universal appeal of the Gospel message (Acts 14:1).

Opposition and Division

However, the community becomes divided; while some of the Jews and Gentiles support the apostles, others side with the unbelieving Jews. The opposition grows strong enough to pose a threat of violence against Paul and Barnabas, prompting them to flee to the surrounding cities of Lystra and Derbe in the region of Lycaonia, where they continue to preach the gospel (Acts 14:2-7).

Miraculous Healing and Reaction in Lystra (Acts 14:8-18)

Healing of a Crippled Man

In Lystra, Paul heals a man crippled from birth, who has never walked. This miracle is performed in public, and the man leaps up and walks after Paul, perceiving his faith, commands him to stand up on his feet. The crowd witnesses this miracle, leading to an unforeseen reaction (Acts 14:8-10).

Misunderstanding of the Crowd

The people of Lystra, seeing what Paul has done, begin to shout in their local language, calling Paul and Barnabas gods in human form. They call Barnabas “Zeus” and Paul “Hermes,” and even try to offer sacrifices to them. The apostles are horrified by this and rush into the crowd to correct their misunderstanding, emphasizing that they are merely humans and preaching the good news that they should turn from these worthless things to the living God (Acts 14:11-18).

Stoning of Paul and Return to Antioch (Acts 14:19-28)

Attack on Paul

Jews from Antioch and Iconium come to Lystra and persuade the crowds to turn against Paul. They stone him and drag him out of the city, thinking he is dead. However, when the disciples gather around him, Paul gets up and returns to the city. The next day, he and Barnabas leave for Derbe (Acts 14:19-20).

Strengthening the Disciples

After preaching the gospel in Derbe and making many disciples, Paul and Barnabas retrace their steps back to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch of Pisidia. They strengthen the disciples and encourage them to remain true to the faith, even saying, “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” They appoint elders for them in each church, with prayer and fasting, committing them to the Lord in whom they had put their faith (Acts 14:21-23).

Reporting to the Church at Antioch

Paul and Barnabas eventually return to Antioch in Syria, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. They gather the church together and report all that God had done through them and how He had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. They stay in Antioch for a long time with the disciples (Acts 14:24-28).

Theological Significance

Connection to Jesus Christ

Acts 14 demonstrates the ongoing impact of Jesus’ ministry through His apostles, especially in the miracles that echo those of Christ. The apostles’ message continuously points back to Jesus as the source of their power and the cornerstone of their message.

God’s Love for the World

This chapter shows God’s love through the miraculous healing that leads to the evangelization of Gentiles and the establishment of new churches. God’s care and guidance are evident as He empowers His servants to overcome severe opposition and violence.

Contemporary Relevance

Acts 14 is relevant today as it addresses the challenges and opposition faced by missionaries and evangelists. It encourages perseverance and faithfulness in spreading the Gospel, despite cultural misunderstandings and severe persecution. The chapter also highlights the necessity of solid church foundations, including leadership development and pastoral care.

Conclusion

Acts 14 provides a vivid account of the struggles and triumphs of early Christian missionaries. It serves as an inspiration and guide for contemporary believers, urging them to continue spreading the Gospel with courage and conviction, relying on God’s power and guidance through all challenges.