Acts 14:6 meaning
In this passage, we see the apostles Paul and Barnabas facing a significant turning point in their missionary journey. As they preached in Iconium, they were met with both belief and hostility, leading to a plot to stone them. The danger prompted them to flee to Lystra and Derbe, cities in Lycaonia. This narrative illustrates the hardships of evangelism and the volatile nature of public opinion, which can swing dramatically as seen later when the same city that praised them could also turn against them.
This verse emphasizes the apostles' resilience and dedication to the Gospel despite opposition. Their departure for Lystra didn't signify retreat or failure; rather, it marked a strategic move to continue fulfilling their mission. They understood that even amidst persecution, God provides sanctuaries and opportunities for ministry. As the NASB95 translation notes, even after fleeing, Paul and Barnabas didn’t abandon their calling but continued to preach the Gospel wherever they went, reflecting a robust commitment to their divine mission.
For reference, consider Acts 14:6.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Acts 14:1-7 meaning. Driven out of Pisidian Antioch, Paul and Barnabas preach in the synagogue of Iconium. Many Jews and Gentiles hear and believe in Jesus. But some of the Jews are hostile and do not believe. They sow hatred in the hearts of some of the Gentiles in Iconium, and although Paul and Barnabas are able to perform miracles and preach for a long time, eventually they leave town to escape a plot to stone them to death.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Acts 14:8-13 meaning. God heals a man born lame through Paul. The people of Lystra misinterpret the healing as evidence that Paul and Barnabas are Greek gods who are visiting them.
- Acts 14:14-18 meaning. The local priest of Zeus brings oxen to sacrifice to Paul and Barnabas, because Paul healed a lame man by God’s power. Paul and Barnabas tear their robes and preach against this mistake. They explain that they serve the living God who created everything. God allowed the Gentiles to stray for some time, but He was still active in blessing their wellbeing. Their words do not seem to sink in, but they are able to, with difficulty, prevent the people of Lystra from sacrificing cows to them.
- Acts 22:6-16 meaning. Acts 22:6-16 continues Paul’s testimony. He relays how the resurrected Jesus appeared to him on the road to Damascus, blinding him and calling him to stop his persecution. In Damascus, a believer named Ananias healed Paul’s vision, baptized him, and told him that God had chosen Paul to preach the gospel.