Acts 14:1-7
The gospel produces both faith and hostility, but the servants of Christ persist in Spirit-empowered witness.
1 In Iconium, they entered together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude both of Jews and of Greeks believed.
2 But the disbelieving Jews stirred up and embittered the souls of the Gentiles against the brothers.
3 Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who testified to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
4 But the multitude of the city was divided. Part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles.
5 When some of both the Gentiles and the Jews, with their rulers, made a violent attempt to mistreat and stone them,
6 they became aware of it and fled to the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra, Derbe, and the surrounding region.
7 There they preached the Good News.
The gospel produces both faith and hostility, but the servants of Christ persist in Spirit-empowered witness.
To show the continued pattern of gospel proclamation in synagogues, divided responses, and perseverance amid escalating opposition.
This passage continues the first missionary journey pattern established in Pisidian Antioch. Synagogue proclamation leads to belief and opposition, with the city divided over the message. Luke highlights both bold endurance and strategic withdrawal. The narrative transitions toward the Lycaonian region where further developments occur.
Paul and Barnabas travel to Iconium in the Roman province of Galatia. As in prior cities, they begin in the synagogue, addressing Jews and God-fearing Gentiles. Many believe, but opposition intensifies as unbelieving Jews poison minds against them. The apostles remain for an extended period, and God authenticates their message through signs and wonders. When a coordinated plot arises to stone them, they depart to Lystra and Derbe.
Through Many Hardships into the Kingdom
Acts 14 shows that Spirit-sent mission advances through bold preaching, suffering, correction of idolatry, strengthened churches, appointed elders, and God’s opened door of faith to the Gentiles.