Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. But the people of the city were divided;
In Acts 14:1-7, we witness yet another account of division within the early church. Once again Paul and Barnabas face opposition and persecution while spreading the Gospel. Despite facing adversity, their unwavering commitment to sharing the message of Jesus Christ remains steadfast. This passage serves as a poignant reminder that division has always been present in the Christian journey, as Jesus Himself prophesied. As He declared in Matthew 10:34-36, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household.”
Exegesis of Acts 14:1-7
Verse 1:
“At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed.”
Paul and Barnabas continue their missionary journey, adhering to their custom of first visiting the Jewish synagogue. Their preaching is compelling, leading many Jews and Greeks to embrace the faith.
Verse 2:
“But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.”
Despite the positive response from many, there are those who reject the message of Paul and Barnabas. These unbelieving Jews incite hostility among the Gentiles, causing them to turn against the preachers.
Verse 3:
“So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.”
Despite the opposition, Paul and Barnabas remain resolute in their mission, boldly proclaiming the Gospel. God validates their message through miraculous signs and wonders, affirming His grace.
Verse 4:
“But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles.”
The preaching of Paul and Barnabas causes a division among the people of Iconium. Some align themselves with the unbelieving Jews, while others support the apostles and their message.
Verse 5:
“When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them,”
The opposition intensifies as both Gentiles and Jews, along with their leaders, conspire to harm Paul and Barnabas. Their intention is to stone the preachers, demonstrating the severity of the hostility they face.
Verse 6:
“they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country,”
Paul and Barnabas become aware of the plot against them and decide to flee to the neighboring cities of Lystra and Derbe, as well as the surrounding countryside, to avoid the impending danger.
Verse 7:
“and there they continued to preach the gospel.”
Despite the opposition and persecution they encounter, Paul and Barnabas remain undeterred in their mission. They continue to proclaim the Gospel, spreading the message of Jesus Christ wherever they go.
Scriptural Support from the New Testament
- Perseverance in the Face of Opposition: Romans 8:35-37 assures believers that no amount of opposition or persecution can separate them from the love of Christ. Paul himself experienced numerous trials and tribulations, yet remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to spreading the Gospel.
In conclusion, Acts 14:1-7 offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by early Christian missionaries and the enduring nature of division within the church. Despite encountering hostility and opposition, Paul and Barnabas exemplify unwavering faith and dedication to their mission, demonstrating that the message of Jesus Christ transcends all obstacles. As modern-day followers of Christ, we are called to emulate their courage and perseverance in sharing the Gospel, knowing that God’s grace sustains us through every trial.