How does Acts 14:20 demonstrate God's power in Paul's recovery and mission? Setting the Stage • Acts 14:19 records Paul being stoned, dragged outside Lystra, and presumed dead. • Verse 20 picks up immediately afterward: “But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.” The Miracle in One Verse • “He got up” – From apparent death or at least life-threatening injury, Paul rises without delay. • “Went back into the city” – He re-enters the very place where hostility peaked, showing no lingering weakness. • “The next day… left for Derbe” – Travels a rough, 60-mile journey right after the assault. Evidence of Divine Healing • Instant restoration exceeds normal human recovery; only God could reverse such damage (cf. Psalm 103:2-3). • Similar divine interventions: – Peter freed from prison, Acts 12:7-11. – Eutychus raised, Acts 20:9-10. • Paul later writes, “The Lord stood with me and strengthened me” (2 Timothy 4:17), echoing this experience. Strength to Return to the City • Courage is itself a work of God’s Spirit (2 Timothy 1:7). • By re-entering Lystra, Paul models obedience over self-preservation (Philippians 1:20). • His presence encourages the new disciples who thought him dead; their faith witnesses a living miracle. Fuel for the Ongoing Mission • Physical healing keeps the gospel moving to Derbe and beyond (Acts 14:21-22). • God proves His promise: “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name” (Acts 9:15). • Suffering doesn’t thwart the mission; it showcases resurrection power at work in a mortal body (2 Corinthians 4:7-11). Lessons for Believers Today • God’s power restores what opposition tries to destroy. • Bold witness flows from trusting the God who can raise up His servants. • Suffering can become a platform for displaying the life of Jesus to a watching world. |
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