Acts 14:4
The people of the city were divided. Some sided with the Jews, and others with the apostles.
The people of the city
This phrase refers to the inhabitants of Iconium, a city in the region of Galatia. Historically, Iconium was a significant city in the Roman province of Galatia, known for its diverse population, including Greeks, Jews, and native Phrygians. The division among the people highlights the impact of the Gospel message, which often challenges existing beliefs and societal norms. The Greek word for "people" here is "ὄχλος" (ochlos), indicating a crowd or multitude, emphasizing the widespread nature of the division.

were divided
The Greek word used here is "ἐσχίσθη" (eschisthē), which means to split or tear apart. This division is not merely a difference of opinion but a significant rift within the community. The Gospel of Christ often acts as a dividing line, as Jesus Himself stated in Matthew 10:34-36, where He spoke of bringing not peace but a sword. This division is a testament to the powerful and sometimes polarizing nature of the Gospel message.

Some sided with the Jews
The phrase indicates that a portion of the city's population aligned themselves with the Jewish leaders who opposed Paul and Barnabas. The Jews here likely refer to the religious leaders who felt threatened by the apostles' teachings. Historically, the Jewish community in the Diaspora was often influential and protective of their traditions. The Greek word "συνετάγησαν" (synetachthēsan) implies a deliberate alignment or agreement, suggesting that these individuals were actively choosing to support the Jewish leaders' stance against the apostles.

and others with the apostles
This part of the verse shows that another segment of the population supported Paul and Barnabas. The term "apostles" here refers to Paul and Barnabas, who were spreading the message of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "ἀπόστολοι" (apostoloi) means "sent ones," indicating their divine mission to preach the Gospel. This support for the apostles demonstrates the transformative power of their message and the work of the Holy Spirit in opening hearts to the truth of the Gospel. The division also underscores the early church's challenges in spreading Christianity amidst opposition and cultural differences.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The People of the City
Refers to the inhabitants of Iconium, a city in the region of Galatia, who were divided in their response to the message of the apostles.

2. The Jews
This group likely includes Jewish leaders and those who were resistant to the message of Paul and Barnabas, opposing their teaching about Jesus as the Messiah.

3. The Apostles
Specifically refers to Paul and Barnabas, who were preaching the Gospel in Iconium and performing signs and wonders to affirm their message.

4. Iconium
A significant city in the Roman province of Galatia, where Paul and Barnabas faced both acceptance and opposition during their missionary journey.

5. Division
The event of division among the city's people highlights the differing responses to the Gospel message, a common occurrence in the early church's expansion.
Teaching Points
The Nature of the Gospel
The Gospel inherently divides because it demands a response. People must choose to accept or reject the message of Christ.

Courage in the Face of Opposition
Like Paul and Barnabas, believers today are called to stand firm in their faith, even when faced with division and opposition.

Unity in the Church
While division is a reality in the world, the church is called to unity in Christ, focusing on the core truths of the Gospel.

Discernment in Division
Believers must discern the reasons for division and seek to address them with wisdom and love, aiming for reconciliation where possible.

The Role of Signs and Wonders
Miracles can affirm the message of the Gospel, but the focus should remain on the message itself, not just the miraculous.
Bible Study Questions
1. What factors contributed to the division among the people of Iconium, and how can we apply this understanding to divisions we see today?

2. How does the division in Iconium reflect Jesus' teachings about the divisive nature of His message?

3. In what ways can we, as modern believers, stand firm in our faith when faced with opposition or division?

4. How can the church today work towards unity in Christ, despite differing opinions and backgrounds?

5. What role do signs and wonders play in affirming the Gospel message, and how should we view them in our current context?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 10:34-36
Jesus speaks about bringing division, not peace, as a result of His message, which parallels the division seen in Iconium.

John 7:43
The division among the people regarding Jesus' identity during His ministry reflects the ongoing pattern of division seen in Acts 14:4.

1 Corinthians 1:10-13
Paul addresses divisions within the church, emphasizing unity in Christ, which contrasts with the division in Iconium.
Apostolic (Ministerial) ExperienceW. Clarkson Acts 14:1-7
Faithful Service: IconiumR.A. Redford Acts 14:1-7
The Calm Force of the Gospel Amid Many Distractions of MenP.C. Barker Acts 14:1-7
The Gospel At IconiumE. Johnson Acts 14:1-7
At IconiumM. C. Hazard.Acts 14:1-18
Characteristics of Apostolic PreachingG. R. Leavett.Acts 14:1-18
Courage Requisite in ReformersW. H. Beecher.Acts 14:1-18
Effects of Gospel PreachingS. S. TimesActs 14:1-18
God's Testimony to His WordJames Jeffrey.Acts 14:1-18
God's Testimony to the Word of His GraceB. Beddome, M. A.Acts 14:1-18
God's Testimony to the Word of His GraceH. Stowell, M. A.Acts 14:1-18
IconiumLyman Abbott, D. D.Acts 14:1-18
Iconium and LystraT. H. Hanna, D. D.Acts 14:1-18
Mode of Preaching the Gospel Adapted to SuccessE. T. Fitch, D. D.Acts 14:1-18
Perils of Missionary LifeActs 14:1-18
Persecution Turned into InspirationJ. Parker, D. D.Acts 14:1-18
Proper Witness BearingLisco.Acts 14:1-18
Strike, But Hear UsA. Fuller.Acts 14:1-18
The Courage of Devoted ChristiansActs 14:1-18
The Ministry of the Apostles At IconiumD. Thomas, D. D.Acts 14:1-18
Gospel PreachingActs 14:4-7
The Effects of the GospelJ. W. Burn.Acts 14:4-7
The Gospel for AllW. Brock, D. D.Acts 14:4-7
The Gospel MinistryT. Gibson, M. A.Acts 14:4-7
The Insufficient and the EfficaciousHomiletic ReviewActs 14:4-7
The Permitted Flight of the Servant of GodK. Gerok.Acts 14:4-7
The Preaching of the GospelJ. Angell James.Acts 14:4-7
People
Barnabas, Hermes, Jupiter, Mercurius, Paul
Places
Attalia, Derbe, Iconium, Lycaonia, Lystra, Pamphylia, Perga, Pisidia, Pisidian Antioch, Syrian Antioch
Topics
Apostles, Divided, Division, Held, Jews, Length, Multitude, Parties, Sided, Siding, Split, Town
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Acts 14:4

     7707   apostles, designation

Acts 14:1-6

     7505   Jews, the

Acts 14:1-7

     5817   conspiracies

Acts 14:1-23

     7924   fellowship, in service

Library
Dream and Reality
'The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.' --ACTS xiv. 11. This was the spontaneous instinctive utterance of simple villagers when they saw a deed of power and kindness. Many an English traveller and settler among rude people has been similarly honoured. And in Lycaonia the Apostles were close upon places that were celebrated in Greek mythology as having witnessed the very two gods, here spoken of, wandering among the shepherds and entertained with modest hospitality in their huts. The
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

'The Door of Faith'
'And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.'--ACTS xiv. 27. There are many instances of the occurrence of this metaphor in the New Testament, but none is exactly like this. We read, for example, of 'a great door and effectual' being opened to Paul for the free ministry of the word; and to the angel of the Church in Philadelphia, 'He that openeth and none shall shut' graciously
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

Deified and Stoned
'And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. 12. And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker. 13. Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. 14. Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

The Cripple at Lystra
There are two or three points in this narrative to which I shall call your attention to-night, making, however, the lame man the center of the picture. We shall notice, first of all, what preceded this lame man's faith; secondly, wherein lay his faith to be healed; and thirdly, what is the teaching of the miracle itself, and the blessing which the lame man obtained through faith. I. WHAT WAS IT WHICH PRECEDED HIS FAITH? That "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God," is a great and
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 10: 1864

Historical Criticism of Mediæval Amplifications.
But along with the genuine and trustworthy matter, the compiler has embodied much that is unattested and in many cases inherently improbable, and even some things that are demonstrably untrue. i. The Miraculous Details.--To the category of the improbable--the fiction of hagiology or the growth of myth--belong the miracles so freely ascribed to Ephraim and the miraculous events represented as attending on his career. It is noteworthy that Ephraim himself, though no doubt he believed that he was
Ephraim the Syrian—Hymns and Homilies of Ephraim the Syrian

St. Barnabas' Day. We Preach unto You that Ye Should Turn from These Vanities unto the Living God which Made Heaven
St. Barnabas' Day. We preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein: who in time past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. 7,7,7,7,7,7,7,7,7,7 Sollt ich meinem Gott nicht singen [130]Paul Gerhardt. 1659. trans. by Catherine
Catherine Winkworth—Lyra Germanica: The Christian Year

Whether it was Fitting that Christ Should be Transfigured?
Objection 1: It would seem that it was not fitting that Christ should be transfigured. For it is not fitting for a true body to be changed into various shapes [figuras], but only for an imaginary body. Now Christ's body was not imaginary, but real, as stated above ([4222]Q[5], A[1]). Therefore it seems that it should not have been transfigured. Objection 2: Further, figure is in the fourth species of quality, whereas clarity is in the third, since it is a sensible quality. Therefore Christ's assuming
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial.
1. What the cross is. By whom, and on whom, and for what cause imposed. Its necessity and dignity. 2. The cross necessary. 1. To humble our pride. 2. To make us apply to God for aid. Example of David. 3. To give us experience of God's presence. 3. Manifold uses of the cross. 1. Produces patience, hope, and firm confidence in God, gives us victory and perseverance. Faith invincible. 4. 2. Frames us to obedience. Example of Abraham. This training how useful. 5. The cross necessary to subdue the wantonness
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Jewish Rejecters and Gentile Receivers
'And the next Sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God. 45. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 46. Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. 47. For so hath the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

Paul at Athens
'Then Paul stood In the midst of Mars-hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. 23. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To the Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. 24. God, that made the world, and all things therein, seeing that He is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25. Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though He needed
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts

The Publisher to the Reader.
There are no sermons I know of any divine or pastor in this kingdom, that have been more frequently printed, or more universally read and esteemed, than the elegant and judicious discourses of Mr. Binning, which were published after his death, at different times, in four small volumes. As there was a great demand for these valuable writings, about twenty six years ago; so these printed copies of them were compared with his own manuscript copy now in my hand, carefully revised, and then printed, in
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial.
The four divisions of this chapter are,--I. The nature of the cross, its necessity and dignity, sec. 1, 2. II. The manifold advantages of the cross described, sec. 3-6. III. The form of the cross the most excellent of all, and yet it by no means removes all sense of pain, sec. 7, 8. IV. A description of warfare under the cross, and of true patience, (not that of philosophers,) after the example of Christ, sec. 9-11. 1. THE pious mind must ascend still higher, namely, whither Christ calls his disciples
Archpriest John Iliytch Sergieff—On the Christian Life

Apostles To-Day?
"Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are ye not my work in the Lord?"--1 Cor. ix. 1. We may not take leave of the apostolate without a last look at the circle of its members. It is a closed circle; and every effort to reopen it tends to efface a characteristic of the New Covenant. And yet the effort is being made again and again. We see it in Rome's apostolic succession; in the Ethical view gradually effacing the boundary-line between the apostles and believers;
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Letter xi (Circa A. D. 1120) the Abbot of Saint Nicasius at Rheims
The Abbot of Saint Nicasius at Rheims He consoles this abbot for the departure of the Monk Drogo and his transfer to another monastery, and exhorts him to patience. 1. How much I sympathize with your trouble only He knows who bore the griefs of all in His own body. How willingly would I advise you if I knew what to say, or help you if I were able, as efficaciously as I would wish that He who knows and can do all things should advise and assist me in all my necessities. If brother Drogo had consulted
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

The Sovereignty of God in Reprobation
"Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God" (Rom. 11:22). In the last chapter when treating of the Sovereignty of God the Father in Salvation, we examined seven passages which represent Him as making a choice from among the children of men, and predestinating certain ones to be conformed to the image of His Son. The thoughtful reader will naturally ask, And what of those who were not "ordained to eternal life?" The answer which is usually returned to this question, even by those who profess
Arthur W. Pink—The Sovereignty of God

Holy violence
"But," says one, "do you wish us to understand, that if a man is to be saved he must use violence and vehement earnestness in order to obtain salvation?" I do, most assuredly; that is the doctrine of the text. "But," says one, "I thought it was all the work of God." So it is, from first to last. But when God has begun the work in the soul, the constant effect of God's work in us is to set us working; and where God's Spirit is really striving with us, we shall begin to strive too. This is just a test
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 5: 1859

Phil. 1:01 the Rights and Duties of Lay Churchmen.
[19] "Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons."--Phil. 1:1. THIS opening verse of St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians is a very remarkable text of Scripture. I suspect it receives far less attention from Bible- readers than it deserves. Like the gold of California, men have walked over it for centuries, and have not observed what was under their feet. In fact, if some Anglican divines had stood at the
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times

Though These Eternal Moral Obligations are Indeed of Themselves Incumbent on all Rational Beings,
even antecedent to the consideration of their being the positive will and command of God, yet that which most strongly confirms, and in practice most effectually and indispensably enforces them upon us, is this; that both from the perfections of God, and the nature of things, and from several other collateral considerations, it appears, that as God is himself necessarily just and good in the exercise of his infinite power in the government of the whole world, so he cannot but likewise positively
Samuel Clarke—A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God

The Extension of the Church Throughout the World
A.D. 45-70 Section 1. The First Mission to the Gentiles. [Sidenote: A.D. 45.] [Sidenote: St. Paul and St. Barnabas sent to preach to the heathen.] It would seem that in the special Eucharistic offerings and Lenten discipline mentioned by St. Luke[1], the Church in Antioch was seeking guidance of her Divine Head as to her duties with respect to the gentile world in the midst of which she was placed; and that the command of the Holy Ghost to consecrate St. Paul and St. Barnabas as Apostles to the
John Henry Blunt—A Key to the Knowledge of Church History

Concerning Persecution
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 We are now come to the last beatitude: Blessed are they which are persecuted . . '. Our Lord Christ would have us reckon the cost. Which of you intending to build a tower sitteth not down first and counteth the cost, whether he have enough to finish it?' (Luke 14:28). Religion will cost us the tears of repentance and the blood of persecution. But we see here a great encouragement that may
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

Epistle xxxix. To Anastasius, Bishop .
To Anastasius, Bishop [1602] . Gregory to Anastasius, Bishop of Antioch. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men of good will (Luke ii. 14), because that great river which once had left the rocks of Antioch dry has returned at length to its proper channel, and waters the subject valleys that are near, so as also to bring forth fruit, some thirty-fold, some sixty-fold, and some an hundred-fold. For now there is no doubt that many flowers of souls are growing up in its valleys, and that
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Messiah Suffering and Wounded for Us
Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: ..... He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. W hen our Lord was transfigured, Moses and Elijah appeared in glory and conversed with Him. Had we been informed of the interview only, we should probably have desired to know the subject of their conversation, as we might reasonably suppose it turned upon very interesting and important
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

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