How can Acts 14:7 inspire us to persevere in evangelism despite opposition? Setting the Scene Acts 14 opens with Paul and Barnabas in Iconium meeting fierce resistance—threats of stoning (Acts 14:5). They wisely relocate to the surrounding region of Lycaonia, arriving in Lystra and Derbe. Reading the Verse Acts 14:7: “And there they continued preaching the gospel.” A single, straightforward sentence—yet it pulses with conviction. “Continued” bridges the hostility of Iconium with the fresh fields of Lycaonia. The gospel remained their unshakable priority. What Opposition Looked Like for Paul and Barnabas • Public agitation by unbelieving Jews (Acts 14:2) • A violent plot to mistreat and stone them (Acts 14:5) • Relentless pursuit; Jews from Antioch and Iconium later stone Paul in Lystra (Acts 14:19) Even life-threatening pressure could not silence their message. Why Their Response Matters for Us • Faithfulness over comfort: they valued obedience to Christ above personal safety (cf. Acts 20:24). • Confidence in divine calling: Jesus had already told Paul, “I will show him how much he must suffer for My name” (Acts 9:16). Opposition confirmed, rather than contradicted, their mission. • Awareness of eternal stakes: the good news they preached offers life; silence would leave people lost (Romans 10:14–15). Practical Ways to Persevere Today 1. Anchor your motivation in Scripture. Memorize verses like 2 Timothy 4:2, “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” 2. Expect resistance. Jesus promised, “If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well” (John 15:20). Pushback is normal, not a sign of failure. 3. Lean on community. Paul had Barnabas; we need brothers and sisters who pray, encourage, and, when necessary, flee with us to the next opportunity. 4. Adjust tactics, not message. Paul changed locations but never content. If one door shuts, seek another; but keep the gospel unchanged (Galatians 1:8–9). 5. Celebrate small victories. Even amid hostility, crippled men walk (Acts 14:10) and disciples are made (Acts 14:21). Rejoicing strengthens resolve. Encouraging Promises to Fuel Our Courage • Matthew 28:20: “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” • 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” • Isaiah 55:11: “So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please.” The God who stood with Paul stands with us; His Word guarantees fruit. A Closing Challenge Like Paul and Barnabas, let’s “continue preaching the gospel” wherever God plants us. When opposition rises, remember Acts 14:7: keep going, keep speaking—because the message is true, people are eternal, and Jesus is worthy. |
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