How can we emulate Paul and Barnabas' perseverance in spreading the Gospel today? A snapshot of Acts 14:24 “After passing through Pisidia, they came into Pamphylia.” Paul and Barnabas have just survived being stoned in Lystra (Acts 14:19-20). Instead of retreating, they press on—crossing rugged mountains, hostile territories, and spiritual opposition—to keep preaching Christ. That single verse, tucked between stories, quietly showcases gritty, Spirit-empowered perseverance. What their perseverance looked like • Refusal to quit after violent opposition (vv. 19-20) • Immediate return to ministry rather than a season of self-preservation (v. 20) • Continual travel to unreached regions (v. 24) • Strengthening new believers and appointing elders (vv. 22-23) • Entrusting results to God through prayer and fasting (v. 23) Key motives that fueled them • Unshakable assurance that Jesus is alive (Acts 9:3-6; 1 Corinthians 15:58) • Clear commission from the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:2) • Heart for lost people (Romans 9:2-3) • Hope of eternal reward (2 Timothy 4:7-8) How we can emulate their perseverance today 1. Cultivate conviction – Soak in Scripture daily. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) – Rehearse the gospel to yourself; conviction fuels courage. 2. Depend on the Spirit – Pray before, during, and after every gospel conversation (Ephesians 6:18-20). – Expect the Spirit to open doors and hearts (Acts 16:14). 3. Stay on mission despite setbacks – Re-enter hard places; don’t write people off after rejection (Acts 14:21-22). – Remember Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” 4. Travel light—live as sent ones – Hold possessions loosely; budget time and resources for outreach (Matthew 6:19-21). – Be ready to redirect plans when God prompts (Acts 16:6-10). 5. Work in teams – Partner with believers who balance your gifts (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). – Share victories and burdens; send updates like Paul’s reports to Antioch (Acts 14:27-28). 6. Strengthen disciples, not just make converts – Follow up, teach, and encourage perseverance in new believers (Colossians 1:28-29). – Invest in future leaders; multiplication protects the mission from burnout. 7. Embrace hardship as normal – Jesus promised opposition (John 15:18-20). – Hebrews 12:1-3 invites us to “run with endurance… fixing our eyes on Jesus.” Practical next steps • Identify one person or place the Lord keeps bringing to mind. Visit, call, text, or serve there this week. • Schedule regular prayer-walks or drives through your community. • Form a small “Barnabas team” that meets monthly to pray, strategize, and share stories. • Keep a journal of gospel conversations and answered prayers to celebrate God’s faithfulness. • Adopt an unreached people group or missionary for ongoing intercession and support. Verses to keep in view Acts 14:22 “Strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith…” 1 Cor 15:58 “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…” 2 Tim 4:5 “Endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” Phil 1:6 “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion…” Matt 28:20 “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Perseverance is not a personality trait; it is the natural overflow of hearts gripped by the risen Christ, empowered by His Spirit, and certain of His coming reward. |
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