Transformed: Learning to Endure!
Acts 14:1-7
1 In Iconium they entered the Jewish synagogue, as usual, and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed. 2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. 3 So they stayed there a long time and spoke boldly for the Lord, who testified to the message of his grace by enabling them to do signs and wonders. 4 But the people of the city were divided, some siding with the Jews and others with the apostles. 5 When an attempt was made by both the Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat and stone them, 6 they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian towns of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding countryside. 7 There they continued preaching the gospel.
The First Missionary Journey, Acts 13, 14
1. The Ministry of Paul & Barnabas
- The Partnership, v. 1
- The Plan, v. 1
- They Preached with Purpose & Power, v. 1, 3
- What did they preach? Grace, v. 3; 13:38,39
- Their preaching divided, v. 4; Luke 12:51
- They Persevered, v. 2-3 (Gal. 6:9)
2. The Mistreatment of Paul & Barnabas
- Some did not Believe v. 2
- They Excited & Poisoned the people’s minds, v. 4
- Plans were to Kill them, but God protected them.
5 When an attempt was made by both the Gentiles & Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat & stone them, 6 they found out about it & fled to the Lycaonian towns of Lystra & Derbe & to the surrounding countryside.
Acts 14:5-6
3. Principles to Remember for Enduring
- Ministry is better together.
- Start where you are with the people you know.
- The gospel unites and divides.
- We experience God’s presence and power AS WE obey God & persevere in hardship (Rom. 5:3-5)