◄ Acts 14 ►
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Paul and Barnabas at Iconium 1At Iconium, Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue, where they spoke so well that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed. 2But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who affirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders. 4The people of the city were divided. Some sided with the Jews, and others with the apostles. 5But when the Gentiles and Jews, together with their rulers, set out to mistreat and stone them, 6they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding region, 7where they continued to preach the gospel. The Visit to Lystra and Derbe 8In Lystra there sat a man crippled in his feet, who was lame from birth and had never walked. 9This man was listening to the words of Paul, who looked intently at him and saw that he had faith to be healed. 10In a loud voice Paul called out, “Stand up on your feet!” And the man jumped up and began to walk. 11When the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices in the Lycaonian language: “The gods have come down to us in human form!” 12Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes, because he was the chief speaker. 13The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates, hoping to offer a sacrifice along with the crowds. 14But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul found out about this, they tore their clothes and rushed into the crowd, shouting, 15“Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news that you should turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. 16In past generations, He let all nations go their own way. 17Yet He has not left Himself without testimony to His goodness: He gives you rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling your hearts with food and gladness.” 18Even with these words, Paul and Barnabas could hardly stop the crowds from sacrificing to them. 19Then 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. 20But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. And the next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe. Strengthening the Disciples 21They preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. 23Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church, praying and fasting as they entrusted them to the Lord, in whom they had believed. 24After passing through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. 25And when they had spoken the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia. 26From Attalia they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work they had just completed. 27When they arrived, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them, and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 28And they spent a long time there with the disciples. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 14 Summary The Visit to Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe Verses 1–7 – Preaching at Iconium Paul and Barnabas enter the synagogue, speak so effectively that a large number of Jews and Greeks believe. Unbelieving Jews stir up trouble, polarizing the city. When a violent plot emerges to mistreat and stone them, the apostles learn of it and flee to Lystra and Derbe, continuing to proclaim the good news. Verses 8–18 – Miracle at Lystra and Misguided Worship A man crippled from birth listens as Paul speaks. Perceiving faith in him, Paul commands, “Stand upright on your feet!”; the man leaps and walks. The astonished crowd cries out that the gods have come in human form—Barnabas they call Zeus, Paul Hermes. The priest of Zeus brings oxen and garlands to sacrifice, but the apostles tear their clothes and insist they are only men, urging the crowd to turn from worthless idols to the living Creator who “has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and fruitful seasons.” Verses 19–20 – Stoning of Paul and Perseverance Jews from Antioch and Iconium arrive, win over the crowd, and stone Paul, dragging him outside the city as though dead. Disciples gather around; Paul rises, walks back into Lystra, and the next day departs with Barnabas for Derbe. Verses 21–23 – Strengthening the New Churches After preaching in Derbe and making many disciples, they retrace their steps through Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, “strengthening the souls of the disciples” and warning that “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” They appoint elders in every church, with prayer and fasting, committing the believers to the Lord. Verses 24–28 – Return to Antioch and Mission Report Traveling through Pisidia to Pamphylia, they speak the word in Perga, then sail from Attalia to Antioch in Syria, the church that had first sent them out. They gather the believers and report all God had done, especially how He “had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles,” then remain there a considerable time. Acts 14 continues the account of Paul and Barnabas' first missionary journey, recounting their preaching, performing miracles, and facing persecution in various cities. Despite their struggles, they continue to spread the Gospel, appoint leaders, and strengthen the burgeoning Church. Historical and Geographic Context • Iconium (modern Konya) sat on the cusp of Phrygia and Lycaonia, a crossroads where Greco-Roman culture and Jewish communities mingled. • Lystra and Derbe were rural Lycaonian towns. Inscriptions confirm a local devotion to Zeus and Hermes, explaining the crowd’s reaction (Acts 14:12). • Antioch in Syria, over 300 miles to the southeast, was the headquarters that first commissioned Paul and Barnabas (Acts 13:2–3). Iconium: A Divided Response Acts 14:1–5 echoes Jesus’ prediction in Matthew 10:34–36: the gospel brings both peace and division. Paul’s use of the synagogue pattern (Romans 1:16) honors God’s covenant order—“to the Jew first”—yet Gentiles eagerly receive the same grace (cf. Isaiah 49:6). The Lystra Miracle The crippled man heard before he was healed (Romans 10:17). Luke, a medical doctor, notes he was lame “from birth” (14:8), underscoring the creative power of Christ now working through His servants (John 14:12). Similarity with Peter healing the lame man in Acts 3 highlights continuity of apostolic authority. Zeus and Hermes Explained Local legend told of Zeus and Hermes visiting Phrygia in disguise; only an elderly couple welcomed them, and the rest perished in a flood (Ovid, Metamorphoses 8). The Lystrans fear repeating that mistake. Paul’s sermon (14:15–17) uses “general revelation,” pointing to rain, crops, and joy as witnesses to the Creator (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20). Paul’s Sermon Outline 1. Turn from vain things. 2. Serve the living God who made heaven, earth, sea (Exodus 20:11). 3. God’s patience in past generations (Acts 17:30). 4. Present witness through creation’s blessings (James 1:17). Persecution and Perseverance Stoning fulfilled Jesus’ promise of suffering (John 15:20). Paul later recalls this incident when encouraging Timothy, who was from Lystra (2 Timothy 3:10–11). His quick recovery is evidence of divine preservation (2 Corinthians 11:25–27). Strengthening the Disciples “Through many tribulations” (14:22) balances the good news with realistic expectations (John 16:33). Re-visiting fledgling churches shows shepherd-like care (1 Thessalonians 2:7–8). Elders in Every Church Plural leadership safeguards doctrine and care (Titus 1:5). Prayer and fasting underline dependence on God (Acts 13:3). Elders must be above reproach, able to teach (1 Timothy 3:1–7). Mission Strategy Observations • Proclamation accompanied by demonstration—word and works. • Urban centers first, then surrounding regions. • Follow-up visits cement faith and structure. • Reporting back to the sending church fosters accountability and shared joy (Philippians 4:10–18). Archaeological Notes • At Lystra, a 1909 inscription refers to “Zeus of Lystra” and “Hermes,” confirming local worship patterns. • Stone streets and theater ruins at Iconium reveal a prosperous city with room for large gatherings, matching Luke’s note of “a great multitude” believing (14:1). Open Door to the Gentiles Acts 14:27 foreshadows Acts 15’s council. God Himself opened the door (Revelation 3:8); the church’s role is to walk through it (Colossians 4:3). Timeless Takeaways • Expect mixed responses—some believe, others oppose. • Miracles attract attention but can be misinterpreted; clear teaching must follow. • Suffering is not defeat; God turns it into testimony. • Disciples need encouragement, truthful expectations, and local leaders. • Mission work is church work—sent, supported, and celebrated together. Key Cross-References Acts 3; 2 Timothy 3:10–11; Romans 1:18-20; Isaiah 49:6; Matthew 10:34-36; John 16:33; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5; Revelation 3:8. Connections to Additional Scriptures Perseverance James 1:12 - Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. Boldness Ephesians 6:19-20 - Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel. Suffering for Christ 2 Timothy 3:12 - Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. Teaching Points Perseverance in Ministry Paul and Barnabas continue to preach despite opposition. So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who affirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders (Acts 14:3). Division and Opposition The Gospel often causes division. The people of the city were divided. Some sided with the Jews, and others with the apostles (Acts 14:4). Miracles as a Testimony The healing of the lame man in Lystra serves as a powerful testimony to God's power. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed, and called out, 'Stand up on your feet!' And the man jumped up and began to walk (Acts 14:9-10). Misunderstanding and Idolatry The people of Lystra mistake Paul and Barnabas for gods. The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them (Acts 14:13). Suffering for the Gospel Paul is stoned and left for dead, yet he continues his mission. But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city (Acts 14:20). Strengthening the Disciples Paul and Barnabas encourage the new believers. They strengthened the souls of the disciples and encouraged them to continue in the faith, saying, 'We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God' (Acts 14:22). Practical Applications Boldness in Witnessing Be courageous in sharing your faith, even when faced with opposition. Discernment in Ministry Recognize and address misunderstandings about the Gospel. Endurance in Trials Trust in God's strength to persevere through hardships. Encouragement in Community Support and strengthen fellow believers in their faith journey. People 1. Paul Paul, also known as Saul, is a central figure in Acts 14. He is an apostle and missionary who travels with Barnabas to spread the Gospel. In this chapter, Paul performs miracles, preaches to both Jews and Gentiles, and faces persecution. The Greek name "Παῦλος" (Paulos) is used for Paul. 2. Barnabas Barnabas is a companion of Paul and a fellow missionary. He is described as a "good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith" in earlier chapters. In Acts 14, he works alongside Paul in preaching and performing miracles. His name in Greek is "Βαρνάβας" (Barnabas), which means "son of encouragement." 3. A Crippled Man This man, who had been lame from birth, is healed by Paul in Lystra. His healing leads to the crowd mistaking Paul and Barnabas for gods. The Greek text refers to him as "ἀνήρ" (aner), meaning "man." 4. Jews from Antioch and Iconium These individuals come to Lystra and persuade the crowd to stone Paul. They are opponents of Paul and Barnabas, seeking to stop their missionary work. 5. The Crowd in Lystra The people of Lystra initially mistake Paul and Barnabas for gods, calling Barnabas "Zeus" and Paul "Hermes." They later turn against Paul under the influence of the Jews from Antioch and Iconium. 6. The Disciples These are the followers of Jesus in the cities Paul and Barnabas visit. They are encouraged and strengthened by Paul and Barnabas during their missionary journey. Places 1. Iconium In Acts 14:1, Paul and Barnabas visit Iconium, where they enter the Jewish synagogue and speak in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believe. Iconium was an ancient city in what is now modern-day Turkey. The Greek name "Ἰκόνιον" (Ikonion) reflects its historical significance as a center of early Christian activity. 2. Lystra Acts 14:6-8 describes how Paul and Barnabas flee to Lystra after facing threats in Iconium. Lystra is notable for the healing of a man crippled from birth, which leads the local population to mistakenly believe that Paul and Barnabas are gods. The Greek name "Λύστρα" (Lystra) indicates its location in the region of Lycaonia. 3. Derbe In Acts 14:6, Paul and Barnabas also travel to Derbe, another city in Lycaonia. After preaching the gospel there, they make many disciples. The Greek "Δέρβη" (Derbe) suggests its role as a key location in their missionary efforts. 4. Antioch in Pisidia Acts 14:21 refers to Paul and Barnabas returning to Antioch in Pisidia after their time in Derbe. This city, distinct from Antioch in Syria, was an important Roman colony in the region of Pisidia. The Greek "Ἀντιόχεια" (Antiocheia) denotes its significance as a hub for spreading the Christian message. 5. Perga In Acts 14:25, Paul and Barnabas pass through Perga on their return journey. Perga was a city in Pamphylia, known for its temple of Artemis. The Greek "Πέργη" (Perge) highlights its cultural and religious importance in the ancient world. 6. Attalia Acts 14:25 also mentions Attalia, where Paul and Barnabas sail back to Antioch. Attalia, now known as Antalya, was a port city in Pamphylia. The Greek "Ἀττάλεια" (Attaleia) reflects its role as a gateway for travel and trade. 7. Antioch in Syria Finally, in Acts 14:26, Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch in Syria, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work they had completed. This Antioch served as a major center for early Christianity and the starting point for their missionary journeys. The Greek "Ἀντιόχεια" (Antiocheia) again denotes its prominence in the early church. Events 1. Preaching in Iconium Paul and Barnabas spoke effectively in the Jewish synagogue in Iconium, leading to a great number of Jews and Greeks believing. The Greek word used for "spoke" is "ἐλάλησαν" (elalēsan), indicating a continuous action of speaking or preaching (Acts 14:1). 2. Division and Opposition The unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. Despite this, Paul and Barnabas stayed a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord (Acts 14:2-3). 3. Signs and Wonders The Lord confirmed the message of His grace by enabling Paul and Barnabas to perform signs and wonders. The Greek term "σημεῖα καὶ τέρατα" (sēmeia kai terata) refers to miraculous signs and wonders (Acts 14:3). 4. Plot to Mistreat and Stone The city was divided, and a plot was made by both Gentiles and Jews, along with their leaders, to mistreat and stone Paul and Barnabas (Acts 14:4-5). 5. Fleeing to Lystra and Derbe Upon learning of the plot, Paul and Barnabas fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and continued to preach the gospel there (Acts 14:6-7). 6. Healing of a Lame Man in Lystra In Lystra, Paul healed a man who had been lame from birth. The Greek word "ἀνάπηρος" (anapēros) is used to describe the man's condition, meaning crippled or disabled (Acts 14:8-10). 7. Misunderstanding and Attempted Sacrifice The people of Lystra, seeing the miracle, thought Paul and Barnabas were gods and called them Zeus and Hermes. They attempted to offer sacrifices to them (Acts 14:11-13). 8. Paul and Barnabas' Response Paul and Barnabas tore their clothes and rushed into the crowd, insisting they were mere men and urging the people to turn to the living God. The Greek word "ἐπιστρέφειν" (epistrephein) means to turn or convert (Acts 14:14-18). 9. Stoning of Paul Jews from Antioch and Iconium came and persuaded the crowd to stone Paul. They dragged him out of the city, thinking he was dead (Acts 14:19). 10. Paul's Recovery and Return to the City After the disciples gathered around him, Paul got up and went back into the city. The next day, he and Barnabas left for Derbe (Acts 14:20). 11. Preaching and Strengthening Disciples in Derbe They preached the gospel in Derbe and made many disciples. They then returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith (Acts 14:21-22). 12. Appointment of Elders Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in each church, with prayer and fasting, committing them to the Lord (Acts 14:23). 13. Return to Antioch in Syria They traveled through Pisidia and Pamphylia, preached in Perga, and went down to Attalia. From there, they sailed back to Antioch in Syria, where they reported all that God had done through them (Acts 14:24-27). 14. Staying in Antioch Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch for a long time with the disciples, continuing their ministry (Acts 14:28). Lessons from Acts 14 1. Perseverance in the Face of Opposition In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas demonstrate unwavering perseverance despite facing significant opposition. When they arrived in Iconium, they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed. However, some Jews stirred up trouble, yet Paul and Barnabas continued to preach boldly. This teaches us that even when faced with adversity, we must remain steadfast in our mission. As it is written, "We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God" (Acts 14:22). 2. The Power of Signs and Wonders The apostles' ministry was accompanied by signs and wonders, which confirmed the message of grace they preached. In Lystra, Paul healed a man who had been lame from birth, which astonished the crowd. This reminds us that God can use miraculous events to draw people to Himself and validate His message. "So Paul stood up and called out in a loud voice, 'Stand up on your feet!' And the man jumped up and began to walk" (Acts 14:10). 3. Misunderstandings Can Lead to Opportunities When the people of Lystra mistook Paul and Barnabas for gods, it was a misunderstanding that could have led to idolatry. Instead, the apostles used it as an opportunity to redirect the crowd's attention to the one true God. This teaches us to seize every opportunity to share the truth, even when situations are misunderstood. "Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news" (Acts 14:15). 4. The Importance of Humility Paul and Barnabas displayed humility by refusing to accept the worship of the people in Lystra. They pointed the crowd to God, emphasizing that they were mere men. This humility is a powerful lesson for us, reminding us to always give glory to God and not seek it for ourselves. "We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God" (Acts 14:15). 5. The Reality of Persecution Acts 14 highlights the reality of persecution for those who follow Christ. Paul was stoned and left for dead, yet he got up and continued his mission. This serves as a reminder that persecution is part of the Christian journey, but it should not deter us from our calling. "They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead" (Acts 14:19). 6. Strengthening and Encouraging Believers After facing persecution, Paul and Barnabas returned to the cities where they had preached to strengthen and encourage the disciples. This underscores the importance of building up fellow believers, especially in times of trial. "They strengthened the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith" (Acts 14:22). 7. Appointing Leaders in the Church Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in each church, showing the importance of establishing strong leadership within the body of Christ. This ensures that the church remains grounded in sound doctrine and is equipped to face challenges. "They appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord" (Acts 14:23). 8. The Role of Prayer and Fasting Prayer and fasting were integral to the apostles' ministry, especially when appointing leaders. This highlights the necessity of seeking God's guidance and strength in all aspects of ministry and decision-making. "With prayer and fasting, they committed them to the Lord" (Acts 14:23). 9. Sharing the Testimonies of God's Work Upon returning to Antioch, Paul and Barnabas gathered the church to report all that God had done through them. Sharing testimonies of God's work encourages and strengthens the faith of the community. "They reported all that God had done through them and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles" (Acts 14:27). 10. The Unity of the Church Acts 14 concludes with Paul and Barnabas staying with the disciples in Antioch, emphasizing the unity and fellowship within the church. This unity is vital for the growth and strength of the body of Christ. "And they stayed there a long time with the disciples" (Acts 14:28). This unity reflects the love and support that believers are called to share with one another. Topics 1. Ministry in Iconium In Acts 14:1-7, Paul and Barnabas preach in the synagogue in Iconium, where a great number of Jews and Greeks believe. However, some Jews who refuse to believe stir up the Gentiles against them. Despite opposition, Paul and Barnabas continue to speak boldly, performing signs and wonders. The city becomes divided, leading to a plot to mistreat and stone them, prompting their escape to Lystra and Derbe. 2. Healing of a Lame Man in Lystra Acts 14:8-10 describes a miraculous healing performed by Paul in Lystra. A man crippled from birth listens to Paul speak. Observing his faith, Paul commands him to stand up, and the man leaps and walks. This miracle echoes the Greek word "πίστις" (pistis), meaning faith, highlighting the man's belief as a catalyst for his healing. 3. Misunderstanding and Idolatry in Lystra In Acts 14:11-18, the crowd in Lystra, witnessing the miracle, mistakenly believes Paul and Barnabas are gods, calling them Zeus and Hermes. The priest of Zeus attempts to offer sacrifices to them. Paul and Barnabas vehemently reject this, urging the people to turn from "worthless things" to the living God, emphasizing the Greek term "ματαιότης" (mataiotēs), meaning vanity or worthlessness. 4. Persecution and Stoning of Paul Acts 14:19-20 recounts how Jews from Antioch and Iconium persuade the crowd to stone Paul, leaving him for dead. However, as the disciples gather around him, he rises and enters the city, demonstrating resilience and divine protection. The Greek word "λιθοβολέω" (lithoboleō), meaning to stone, underscores the severity of the persecution faced. 5. Strengthening the Disciples in Derbe and Return Journey In Acts 14:21-23, Paul and Barnabas preach the gospel in Derbe, making many disciples. They then return to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith, stating, "We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God." They appoint elders in each church, committing them to the Lord with prayer and fasting. 6. Report to the Church in Antioch Acts 14:24-28 describes Paul and Barnabas's journey back to Antioch in Syria. They pass through Pisidia and Pamphylia, preaching in Perga and Attalia. Upon returning to Antioch, they gather the church and report all that God had done through them, particularly how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. The Greek term "πίστις" (pistis) again highlights the central theme of faith in their mission. Themes 1. Perseverance in Preaching the Gospel Acts 14:1 describes how Paul and Barnabas "spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed." Despite opposition, they continued to preach boldly, demonstrating perseverance in their mission. The Greek word for "spoke" (λαλέω, laleó) emphasizes the act of proclaiming or speaking out, highlighting their commitment to spreading the Gospel. 2. Opposition and Persecution In Acts 14:2, it is noted that "the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers." This theme of opposition is recurrent, showing that the early Christians often faced hostility. The Greek word for "poisoned" (κακοῦν, kakoun) implies causing harm or embittering, indicating the intensity of the opposition. 3. Signs and Wonders as Divine Confirmation Acts 14:3 states, "So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders." The signs and wonders served as divine confirmation of their message, with the Greek word for "confirm" (βεβαιόω, bebaioó) meaning to establish or make firm. 4. Misunderstanding and Idolatry In Acts 14:11-13, the crowd in Lystra mistook Paul and Barnabas for gods, calling Barnabas "Zeus" and Paul "Hermes." This reflects the theme of misunderstanding and the prevalence of idolatry. The Greek culture's tendency to deify humans is evident here, showing the challenge of communicating the Gospel in a polytheistic context. 5. Humility and Correction Acts 14:14-15 shows Paul and Barnabas tearing their clothes and rushing into the crowd, shouting, "Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you." Their response demonstrates humility and a commitment to correcting false beliefs, emphasizing the importance of directing worship to the one true God. 6. Suffering for the Faith Acts 14:19-20 recounts how Paul was stoned and left for dead, yet he rose up and continued his mission. This theme of suffering for the faith is central to the Christian experience, as seen in the Greek word for "stoned" (λιθοβολέω, lithoboleó), which indicates a severe form of persecution. 7. Strengthening and Encouraging Believers Acts 14:22 describes how Paul and Barnabas "strengthened the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith." This theme highlights the importance of discipleship and support within the Christian community. The Greek word for "strengthened" (ἐπιστηρίζω, epistērizō) means to support or establish firmly. 8. Appointment of Elders In Acts 14:23, Paul and Barnabas "appointed elders for them in each church." This theme underscores the importance of church leadership and governance. The Greek word for "appointed" (χειροτονέω, cheirotoneó) suggests a formal selection or ordination process, indicating the structured development of early church communities. Prayer Points Pray for Boldness Ask God to give you courage to share the Gospel fearlessly. Pray for Discernment Seek wisdom to address misunderstandings and false beliefs. Pray for Endurance Request strength to persevere through trials and challenges. Pray for Encouragement Lift up fellow believers, asking God to strengthen their faith and resolve. May this study of Acts 14 inspire you to live boldly for Christ, enduring hardships and encouraging others in their faith journey. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Acts 14:8–10 claim a miraculous healing with no scientific evidence to support it? 2. Why does Acts 14:11–13 depict the Lystrans calling Barnabas “Zeus” and Paul “Hermes,” yet no external records confirm such events? 3. How does Acts 14:19’s account of Paul surviving stoning align with historical or medical plausibility? 4. If Acts 14:21–23 truly records church appointments in multiple cities, why is there no archaeological evidence of these early churches? 5. Why would Acts 14:27 assert God “opened a door of faith to the Gentiles” when earlier passages (e.g., Acts 10) already describe Gentile inclusion? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What lessons can we learn from the boldness of Paul and Barnabas in preaching the Gospel amidst persecution in Iconium? 2. How does the miracle in Lystra demonstrate God's power? 3. How can we apply Paul and Barnabas' response to being mistaken for gods in our own lives when we face undue praise or worship? 4. How does the stoning of Paul reflect on the cost of discipleship? 5. What can we learn from Paul and Barnabas' effort to revisit the cities where they were persecuted to strengthen the disciples there? 6. How does the appointment of elders reflect the importance of leadership within the Church? 7. How does the perseverance of Paul and Barnabas amidst trials inspire you in your personal faith journey? 8. In what ways does the people's reaction to the miracle in Lystra challenge us to present the Gospel clearly to avoid misunderstandings? 9. How can we emulate Paul and Barnabas' commitment to sharing the Gospel in our own lives? 10. How does the reaction of the people of Lystra change from idolizing Paul and Barnabas to stoning Paul, and what does this tell us about the fickle nature of people? 11. How can we prepare ourselves to face the kind of persecution experienced by Paul and Barnabas? 12. How does Paul's recovery and return to the city after being stoned inspire you in your faith? 13. What lessons can we learn from the way Paul and Barnabas continually encouraged new believers to stay true to their faith? 14. How can the leadership model established by Paul and Barnabas in appointing elders inform the leadership structure in our own churches? 15. How does the journey of Paul and Barnabas from persecution in one city to bold proclamation in the next reflect on their reliance on God's guidance? 16. What does the chapter teach about the impact of external influences on the acceptance of the Gospel message? 17. What are some practical ways we can follow the example of Paul and Barnabas in strengthening the faith of fellow believers? 18. How does the conclusion of Paul and Barnabas' first missionary journey inspire you to share your personal testimonies of faith with others? 19. How does Acts 14 deepen your understanding of the costs and rewards of spreading the Gospel? 20. What does the phrase "we must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God" mean to you in your current circumstances? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions