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 (Acts 14:1-6).
-In Lystra, a man lame from birth was healed as Paul noticed
him and his faith to be made well (Acts 14:7-18). *Application* Here is another
faith healing in the same dispensation in which we find ourselves living today.
Do we 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 in an attempt to persuade people to turn their faith
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 (Acts 14:19-20a).
-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 (Acts 14:20b-23). *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.
-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 (Acts 14:24-28). *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
No comments:
Post a Comment