Lesson 4659

 (Lesson 4659)(11-05-24) Acts 14:19-23 

   “And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.” 

 

  Today’s quote relates that Paul was stoned by a hostile crowd from Antioch and Iconium, who turn the people of Lystra against him, leaving him for dead. However, he survived and, with the support of the disciples, returned to the city. The next day, Paul and Barnabas departed for Derbe, where they continued preaching and making disciples. They then revisited Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the believers and encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith despite hardships. Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in each church, praying and fasting for them, and committed these new leaders to the Lord’s care. This passage highlights the resilience of Paul and Barnabas and their dedication to building and strengthening early Christian communities. ~