◄ Acts 14 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Visit to Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe Acts 14 demonstrates the incredible resilience and dedication of Paul and Barnabas amidst various trials on their missionary journey. Despite facing opposition, misunderstandings, and even physical harm, they persevere in sharing the Gospel and building up the Church. Their faith and courage serve as inspiring reminders that through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can overcome obstacles to make known the good news of Jesus Christ. Verses 1-7: Preaching and Persecution in Iconium In Iconium, Paul and Barnabas preach the Gospel in the synagogue, leading many Jews and Gentiles to believe. However, some unbelieving Jews stir up gentiles against them, causing division. Despite the threats of stoning, Paul and Barnabas spend considerable time in Iconium, performing miracles and boldly speaking about God's grace. Verses 8-18: Miracles and Misunderstandings in Lystra and Derbe In Lystra, Paul heals a man crippled from birth, which leads the crowd to mistake Paul and Barnabas for gods. They call Paul, Hermes, and Barnabas, Zeus, planning to offer sacrifices to them. Paul and Barnabas are horrified and quickly correct the misunderstanding, emphasizing that they are mere humans and urging the crowd to turn from idolatry to the living God. Verses 19-20: The Stoning of Paul Jews from Antioch and Iconium come to Lystra, persuading the crowd against Paul. They stone Paul and drag him out of the city, thinking he is dead. However, when the disciples gather around him, he gets up and goes back into the city. The next day, he and Barnabas depart for Derbe. Verses 21-23: Encouragement and Appointment of Elders Paul and Barnabas continue preaching and making many disciples in Derbe. They then revisit Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the disciples, encouraging them to remain true to the faith despite persecutions, and appointing elders in each church. Verses 24-28: Return to Antioch in Syria They travel through Pisidia, Pamphylia, Perga, Attalia, and finally return to Antioch in Syria, where they had been commissioned. They gather the church and report all that God had done through them, especially opening the door of faith to the Gentiles. 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. 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). 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions