What can we learn from Paul's perseverance after being stoned in Acts 14:19? Setting the Scene “Then some Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium, and they won over the crowds. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, presuming he was dead. 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.” (Acts 14:19-20) Observations from the Passage • Hostility escalates from verbal opposition to violent assault. • The crowd believes Paul is dead—his injuries are severe and real. • Fellow believers gather around; their presence precedes Paul’s rising. • Paul immediately returns to the very city that had rejected him. • Ministry continues the next day; there is no pause in gospel work. Lessons on Perseverance • Suffering does not negate calling – “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12) • Courage rises from confidence in God’s sovereignty – Paul’s return to Lystra shows trust that his lifespan is in God’s hands (cf. Psalm 31:15). • Fellowship strengthens resilience – The disciples’ gathering is a tangible reminder that God often ministers through His people (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Mission overrides comfort – Paul valued gospel advance above personal safety (Philippians 1:21; Acts 20:24). • Witness is amplified through endurance – Enduring stones authenticates the message he preaches (2 Corinthians 4:10-11). Practical Applications Today • Expect opposition when truth is proclaimed; don’t interpret hardship as divine displeasure. • Surround yourself with believers who will “gather around” when trials hit. • Return—when appropriate—to difficult places or conversations rather than retreating in fear. • Let the urgency of the gospel outweigh the desire for an easy path. • View setbacks as stages, not endpoints; get up and keep going. Strength for the Journey • God’s presence: “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) • God’s promise: “Those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31) • God’s perspective: “Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (Hebrews 12:3) • God’s reward: “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life.” (James 1:12) |
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