Acts 14:19

Then some Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium and won over the crowds. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, presuming he was dead.

Study Bible

Then some Jews arrived
The phrase indicates a continuation of the narrative, suggesting a sequence of events. The Greek word for "Jews" here is "Ἰουδαῖοι" (Ioudaioi), which refers to Jewish individuals who were often in opposition to the early Christian message. Historically, Jews from other cities traveling to oppose Paul highlights the intense resistance to the spread of Christianity. This opposition was not merely local but extended across regions, showing the perceived threat of the new faith to traditional Jewish beliefs.

from Antioch and Iconium
Antioch and Iconium were significant cities in the region of Pisidia and Lycaonia, respectively. Antioch was a major center of early Christianity, but it also had a strong Jewish presence. Iconium, similarly, was a city where Paul had previously preached and faced opposition. The mention of these cities underscores the widespread nature of the opposition Paul faced. It also reflects the interconnectedness of the ancient world, where news and people traveled between cities, influencing events in multiple locations.

and won over the crowds
The Greek word for "won over" is "πείθω" (peitho), meaning to persuade or convince. This indicates that the Jews from Antioch and Iconium were able to sway public opinion against Paul. The ability to influence the crowd suggests a volatile and easily swayed public sentiment, a common theme in Acts where crowds often play a pivotal role in the unfolding events. This reflects the challenges faced by early Christians in maintaining their message amidst opposition and the power of rhetoric and persuasion in ancient societies.

They stoned Paul
Stoning was a common form of execution for blasphemy or other serious offenses in Jewish law, as seen in the Old Testament. The act of stoning Paul signifies the severity of the opposition he faced and the perception of his message as a grave threat. The Greek word "λιθάζω" (lithazo) is used here, emphasizing the violent rejection of Paul's teachings. This act of violence against Paul is a testament to his unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel, even in the face of life-threatening danger.

and dragged him outside the city
The act of dragging Paul outside the city signifies a rejection not only of his message but of his person. In ancient times, cities were centers of life and community, and being cast out was symbolic of being cut off from society. The Greek word "σύρω" (suro) implies a forceful removal, indicating the hostility of the crowd. This action reflects the broader theme of rejection and persecution faced by early Christians, who were often marginalized and expelled from communities.

presuming he was dead
The assumption of Paul's death highlights the severity of the stoning. The Greek word "νομίζω" (nomizo) means to suppose or assume, indicating that the crowd believed their actions had been successful in silencing Paul. This moment serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and divine protection over Paul, as he later rises and continues his mission. It underscores the theme of resurrection and new life, central to Christian belief, and the idea that God's purposes cannot be thwarted by human opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
A key figure in the early Christian church, Paul was a missionary and apostle who spread the Gospel to the Gentiles. In this passage, he is the victim of persecution.

2. Jews from Antioch and Iconium
These individuals were likely Jewish leaders or agitators who opposed Paul's message and incited the crowd against him.

3. The Crowds
The people in Lystra who were swayed by the Jews from Antioch and Iconium to turn against Paul.

4. Lystra
A city in the region of Lycaonia, where Paul and Barnabas were preaching. It was here that Paul was stoned and left for dead.

5. Stoning
A form of execution by which a group throws stones at a person until they die. It was a common method of punishment for blasphemy or other serious offenses in ancient times.

Teaching Points

Perseverance in Persecution
Paul's experience in Lystra exemplifies the perseverance required of believers in the face of persecution. Despite being stoned and left for dead, Paul continued his mission, demonstrating unwavering faith and commitment to the Gospel.

The Power of Influence
The Jews from Antioch and Iconium were able to sway the crowd against Paul, illustrating the power of influence and the importance of discernment. Believers must be vigilant against false teachings and influences that can lead them astray.

God's Sovereignty and Protection
Although Paul was presumed dead, he survived, which underscores God's sovereignty and protection over His servants. This serves as a reminder that God is in control, even in dire circumstances.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Christ can lead to suffering and persecution, as seen in Paul's life. Believers are called to count the cost of discipleship and remain faithful, trusting in God's ultimate plan and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's experience in Lystra challenge your understanding of perseverance in the face of adversity?

2. In what ways can you guard against being influenced by those who oppose the Gospel, as the crowds in Lystra were?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's protection in a difficult situation. How does this passage encourage you to trust in God's sovereignty?

4. How can the example of Paul's suffering and continued mission inspire you to remain faithful in your own walk with Christ?

5. What practical steps can you take to prepare for potential persecution or opposition in your own life as a follower of Jesus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 7:58-60
The stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, provides a parallel to Paul's experience, highlighting the recurring theme of persecution faced by early Christians.

2 Corinthians 11:25
Paul recounts his sufferings for the sake of the Gospel, including being stoned, which connects directly to this event in Lystra.

Matthew 5:10-12
Jesus' teaching on the blessedness of those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake offers a broader theological context for understanding Paul's suffering.