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THE BOOK OF ACTS

CHAPTER 14

THE CHALLENGE OF CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Just as Paul and Barnabas preached boldly (even in the face of opposition and persecution) so
must we never back down from the message of the gospel. God’s Word is alive, powerful, the
only message that brings spiritual life and eliminates spiritual death. It brings light and dispels
darkness in the hearts and minds of unregenerate men. As long as we are alive on earth, we
are to fulfill the great commission to go into all the world and preach the gospel.

PREACHING IN ICONIUM (1-5)

Paul and Barnabas preached in the synagogue in Iconium and many believed. Then unbelieving
Jews stir up the Gentiles against those who believe the gospel. Paul and Barnabas continue to
speak boldly in the Lord and signs and wonders follow their preaching. The city splits; half side
with the Jews and the other half with the apostles. Those against the message determine to
stone Paul and Barnabas.

Iconium is located in an area of Galatia. It is a providence consisting of four major cities:
Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Derby, and Lystra. Paul and Barnabas have been removed from
Antioch and are traveling further inland into Galatia, and the further they go, the more the
persecution will intensify.

MANY BELIEVE

Act 14:1 And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of
the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.

Paul is sitting a pattern. In most cities, when available, he goes into the synagogue. Paul knows
the customs, manners, and beliefs of the Jews and finds this a quick platform and audience. He
also knows in each city, the gospel was to the Jew first and then to the Greek (Romans 1:16).
However, there were exceptions such as Athens and Philippi.

Paul and Barnabas draw large crowds and speak several times. Many more are added each
time they speak.

Act 14:2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected
against the brethren.

Gentiles run the city of Iconium, and the Jews affect the attitude of the entire city. The city
becomes bitter against Paul and Barnabas because of the Jews.