Topical Encyclopedia Historical and Geographical ContextIconium, an ancient city located in the region of Lycaonia in Asia Minor, is known today as Konya in modern-day Turkey. It was a significant city during the Roman Empire, strategically positioned on the trade routes connecting Ephesus to the east. Iconium was a melting pot of cultures, including Greek, Roman, Jewish, and native Phrygian influences, which contributed to its diverse religious and social landscape. Biblical Account The Apostle Paul's experiences in Iconium are primarily recorded in the Book of Acts. During his first missionary journey, Paul, accompanied by Barnabas, visited Iconium after leaving Pisidian Antioch. The account in Acts 14:1-7 provides insight into their ministry and the subsequent persecution they faced. Ministry and Miracles Upon arriving in Iconium, Paul and Barnabas entered the Jewish synagogue, as was their custom, and preached the gospel. Acts 14:1 states, "At Iconium, Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue, where they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed." Their message resonated with many, leading to a significant number of conversions among both Jews and Gentiles. Opposition and Persecution However, their success also stirred opposition. Acts 14:2 notes, "But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers." This opposition was not merely passive resistance but involved active efforts to undermine the apostles' work. The division within the city grew, with some siding with the Jews and others with the apostles. Despite the growing tension, Paul and Barnabas continued to preach boldly, performing signs and wonders by the power of the Lord to affirm their message (Acts 14:3). Nevertheless, the hostility reached a boiling point, as described in Acts 14:5 : "But when the Gentiles and Jews, together with their rulers, set out to mistreat and stone them, they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe, and to the surrounding region." Significance in Early Christianity The events in Iconium highlight the challenges faced by early Christian missionaries in spreading the gospel. The city serves as an example of the mixed reception the apostles encountered—enthusiastic acceptance by some and vehement rejection by others. The persecution in Iconium underscores the spiritual and physical trials endured by Paul and his companions as they fulfilled the Great Commission. Legacy Iconium's mention in the New Testament serves as a testament to the perseverance and dedication of the early apostles. The city's role in the spread of Christianity is a reminder of the transformative power of the gospel and the inevitable opposition it faces in a fallen world. The account of Paul and Barnabas in Iconium continues to inspire believers to stand firm in their faith amidst adversity, trusting in God's provision and protection. Nave's Topical Index Acts 14:1-6And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. Nave's Topical Index 2 Timothy 3:11 Library An Exposition of the Chapters of the Acts of the Apostles. The Propagation of Christianity. Persecution Every Christian's Lot The Kingdom Conquering the World Acts xvii. 1, 2, 3 Chapter iv. Acts XVIII Acts xiii. 42 Letter Lxxv. (AD 404. ) The Extension of the Church Throughout the World Resources What happened on Paul's third missionary journey? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is The Acts of Paul and Thecla? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to shake the dust off your feet? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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