How does Acts 14:4 illustrate division when preaching the Gospel today? The Setting in Acts 14:4 Acts 14:4: “The people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews, and others with the apostles.” • Paul and Barnabas preach in Iconium, God confirms their message with “signs and wonders” (v.3). • Despite clear evidence, the crowd splits—some believe, some oppose. • The verse captures an enduring reality: the Gospel draws a line that people must cross. A Timeless Pattern of Division • Jesus foretold it: “Do you think I have come to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.” (Luke 12:51) • During His earthly ministry: “So there was division among the people because of Him.” (John 7:43) • After Pentecost: the same pattern repeats (Acts 17:4-5; 19:9). • 1 Corinthians 1:18 explains why: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” Why Division Still Flares Up Today • Exclusivity of Christ: John 14:6 clashes with pluralistic culture. • Moral authority: the Gospel confronts sin (John 3:19-20). • Spiritual warfare: 2 Corinthians 4:4—“the god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers.” • Personal cost: accepting Christ often disrupts relationships, careers, or lifestyles (Matthew 10:34-39). Lessons for Modern Gospel Witness • Expect mixed responses. Faithful preaching always yields both reception and rejection (Acts 28:24). • Proclaim plainly and boldly, yet graciously (Colossians 4:5-6). • Let God confirm the message, not clever tactics (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). • Do not measure success by unanimity; measure by fidelity. Staying Faithful Amid Division • Remember the promise: “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12) • Rejoice that opposition validates the message (Philippians 1:29-30). • Keep sowing; God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Pray for opponents; today’s persecutor may be tomorrow’s Paul (Acts 9:1-18). |
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