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.
• 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).
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).
1. Turn from vain things.
“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).
• Proclamation accompanied by demonstration—word and works.
• Urban centers first, then surrounding regions.
• Follow-up visits cement faith and structure.
• 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).
• 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.
Connections to Additional Scriptures
PerseveranceJames 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.
BoldnessEphesians 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 Christ2 Timothy 3:12 - Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
Teaching Points
Perseverance in MinistryPaul 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 OppositionThe 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 TestimonyThe 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 IdolatryThe 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 GospelPaul 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 DisciplesPaul 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 WitnessingBe courageous in sharing your faith, even when faced with opposition.
Discernment in MinistryRecognize and address misunderstandings about the Gospel.
Endurance in TrialsTrust in God's strength to persevere through hardships.
Encouragement in CommunitySupport and strengthen fellow believers in their faith journey.
People
1.
PaulPaul, 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.
BarnabasBarnabas 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 ManThis 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 IconiumThese 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 LystraThe 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 DisciplesThese 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.
IconiumIn
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.
LystraActs 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.
DerbeIn
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 PisidiaActs 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.
PergaIn
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.
AttaliaActs 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 SyriaFinally, 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 IconiumPaul 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 OppositionThe 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 WondersThe 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 StoneThe 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 DerbeUpon 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 LystraIn 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 SacrificeThe 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' ResponsePaul 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 PaulJews 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 CityAfter 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 DerbeThey 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 EldersPaul and Barnabas appointed elders in each church, with prayer and fasting, committing them to the Lord (
Acts 14:23).
13.
Return to Antioch in SyriaThey 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 AntiochPaul 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
InActs 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 IconiumIn
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 LystraActs 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 LystraIn
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 PaulActs 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 JourneyIn
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 AntiochActs 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 GospelActs 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 PersecutionIn
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 ConfirmationActs 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 IdolatryIn
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 CorrectionActs 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 FaithActs 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 BelieversActs 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 EldersIn
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 BoldnessAsk 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 ofActs 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
