"Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking 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

Paul’s interaction with the Lystrans (8-18) takes a violent turn when Jews from Pisidian Antioch and Iconium arrive and convince the crowds to stone him, drag him out of the city, and leave him for dead. Paul attracts riots and public disorder like a magnet throughout Acts, but this incident is one of the most serious, for his life is clearly in danger. Luke emphasizes that this is sometimes the result when one takes the mission of God seriously. Early Christians considered suffering for Christ to be an honor. Luke reassures his readers that they should not be surprised when they suffer, but should trust that God will care for them, as he cares for Paul.

The Lystran disciples gather around Paul, presumably in prayer and for his protection, and the next day Paul leaves for Derbe, where he experiences further missional success. The way Luke recounts these episodes emphasizes God’s sovereignty—human opposition can never defeat the mission, for divine providence sustains and furthers it. Here, we have a conviction that God is bigger and will use it for his glory, however painful it may be.

Closing Prayer

Whatever the cost, Lord Jesus, help me to follow you faithfully. Give me courage to honor you, no matter what opposition might come against me (edited from Encounter with God)