Acts 14
-The missionary journey continued on now to Iconium, where
proclamation was made in a way that brought many to faith in Jesus Christ, both
Jews and Greeks. However, the Jews who did not believe stirred up the minds of
the Gentiles and they became bitter toward the believers. There was a long
period here in Iconium to speak out in the Name of Christ and there was
boldness with reliance upon the Lord and His grace. There were also many signs
and wonders being done by the disciples as the Holy Spirit gave them power to
accomplish His will. In time they were driven out of the city by a plot to
mistreat and stone them and they dispersed to Lystra, Derbe, Lycaonia, and the
surrounding region.
-In Lystra, a man lame from birth was healed as Paul noticed
him and his faith to be made well. *Application* Here is another faith healing
in the same dispensation in which we find ourselves living today. Do you believe
in the power of God for miracles of this nature? Notice that there was a
recognition of faith and a command given which preceded this wonder. Notice
that the lame man had the faith to heal his condition. Notice that Paul and
Barnabas were quick to give proper recognition to the Lord for this miracle and
used it to attempt to lead people to Christ. The glory only belongs to the
Lord! He is the One who gives the power to heal!
-Again the crowds were stirred up by Jews that came from
Antioch and Iconium and this time Paul was dragged out of the city and stoned,
left for dead. But while the disciples stood around him, probably praying, he
came back to, got up, and re-entered the city. It did not take them long to
head for another town in this threatening environment.
-The next day Paul and Barnabas went to Derbe. In this city
there was more preaching, believing, and many disciples were made. After these
things the missionaries returned to Lysta, Iconium, and Pisidian Antioch
strengthening to souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in
their faith. The message was clear enough, “Through many tribulations we must
enter the Kingdom of God (Acts 14:22).” Here in these new places, elders were
appointed to oversee the newly established churches and they were commended to
the Lord with prayers and fasting. *Application* Here we see the Biblical
method of planting churches in new areas. First, there is proclamation and
believing by lost people. As they come to Christ and are saved they are to be
strengthened and encouraged in the Christian walk. There comes a time when
leaders are called and chosen to have oversight in the work of the church for
the continuation of it (for more detailed description of qualifications see 1
& 2 Timothy and the book of Titus, these are called the pastoral epistles).
These should be appointed after careful consideration with much prayer and
fasting by the apostles (church planters). Finally the commendation is given
and they are given authority to labor in the field in which the Lord has placed
them. There should be a unity, partnership, and accountability in all these
matters under the direction of the Lord in whom we have believed (Acts 14:23).
-At this point Barnabas and Paul make their way back toward
the southern coast and preach in Perga and Attalia. From there they sailed
eastward back to Antioch, where they started from, and reported all that the
Lord had done with them in opening the door of faith to the Gentiles. Here they
spent a long time with the disciples. *Application* One of the best things in
the life of a church is to hear testimonies of what God is doing, particularly
after mission trips like what we’ve just read about. Take the time to share the
great things God is doing on your adventures into lost and dying areas
spiritually speaking. This will encourage those who were not able to go. They
many times are the ones who have been the prayer supporters as well as the
monetary support to make these trips possible. Share what God has done boldly
and joyfully!
Verse to Memorize:
Acts 14:22
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