What can we learn from Paul and Barnabas about handling opposition? Opposition Is Inevitable • “But the people of the city were divided. Some sided with the Jews, while others, with the apostles.” (Acts 14:4) • Division is not a sign that the gospel has failed; it is evidence that truth pierces hearts (Hebrews 4:12). • Jesus warned, “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” (John 15:18) • Expecting pushback keeps us from being surprised, discouraged, or derailed (2 Timothy 3:12). Stand Firm on the Message, Not on Popular Opinion • Paul and Barnabas did not soften their message to reduce tension (Acts 14:3). • They spoke “boldly for the Lord” because truth is non-negotiable (Galatians 1:10). • When culture divides, God’s Word remains our unchanging anchor (Psalm 119:89). Lean on God-Given Partnerships • Luke calls them “the apostles,” a united front against opposition (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). • Barnabas’ nickname means “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36); his presence strengthened Paul. • Gospel ministry is meant to be shared; isolation makes retreat easier (Philippians 1:27). Keep the Focus on Christ’s Power • The Lord “confirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.” (Acts 14:3) • Miraculous confirmation pointed listeners back to Jesus, not to the messengers (Acts 3:12-16). • Prayerful dependence invites God to validate His Word in His way (Acts 4:29-31). Discern When to Persevere and When to Move On • Paul and Barnabas stayed “a considerable time” (Acts 14:3) until a plot to stone them arose (Acts 14:5-6). • Perseverance and prudence are not opposites; Jesus often withdrew when hostility peaked (Matthew 12:14-15). • Leaving Iconium was not defeat—it was strategic redeployment (Acts 14:6-7). Respond Without Bitterness • There is no record of retaliation; they simply pressed forward (Romans 12:17-21). • Gospel workers are ambassadors, not avengers (2 Corinthians 5:20). Celebrate the Fruit God Gives • Even in conflict, “a great number of Jews and Greeks believed.” (Acts 14:1) • Seed-sowing and opposition often run parallel; God alone grants increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Rejoicing in every convert shields the heart from discouragement (Philippians 4:4). Takeaway Checklist □ Anticipate opposition—don’t be rattled by it. □ Stand on Scripture, not shifting opinions. □ Cultivate gospel partnerships for mutual strength. □ Depend on the Spirit to confirm the message. □ Know when to stay and when to move on. □ Guard your heart from bitterness. □ Thank God for every soul He rescues amid the resistance. |
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