Persevering in the Gospel (Lessons from Acts 14)

In Acts 14, we see a powerful continuation of the ministry of Paul and Barnabas. In Acts 13, we see Paul deliver a powerful sermon in Pisidian Antioch that inspired the listeners, such that by the next Sabbath, several people (almost the whole city) came to hear him speak in the synagogue. But the Jews were upset about it. They were jealous that Paul and Barnabas drew such a large crowd, and they opposed them, causing them to be expelled from their region (Acts 13:13-51). After facing this kind of persecution, one might expect them to take a break or go quiet for a while. But not these men. In Acts 14:1, we see them back on the field, boldly preaching again. From their example, we can learn a few important lessons about living out and sharing our faith:

1. Opposition is not a sign to stop.
   Even after being sent out by force, Paul and Barnabas were not discouraged. They pressed on, preaching with even more resolve. Imagine how many people would have remained unreached if they had quit after that first persecution. We must keep sharing the gospel – regardless of resistance.

2. Not everyone in religious circles supports the move of God.
   In Acts 14:2, those who opposed the gospel were Jews – people who also worshipped in the synagogue. They were supposedly "God's people," yet they turned others against Paul and Barnabas. But in verse 3, the disciples responded by staying longer to strengthen and disciple the new converts.

3. Follow-up is essential.
   Preaching the gospel doesn’t end at salvation. Discipleship is part of our assignment. Paul and Barnabas invested time in nurturing the faith of these new believers. That’s what effective ministry looks like – planting and watering.

4. God provides escape from danger.
   When a violent plot arose (Acts 14:4-6), God allowed Paul and Barnabas to hear about it on time. They fled before harm could reach them. Sometimes, deliverance doesn’t look like fire from heaven; it looks like timely information and the wisdom to move. May God continue to expose every hidden trap and provide us with a way of escape, in Jesus’ name.

5. Passion for souls must outweigh the fear of death.
   In Acts 14:7, even after fleeing, they kept preaching. These men were completely sold out. Their commitment to the ministry of reconciliation wasn’t situational – it was total. They weren’t concerned about their reputation or safety. They were driven by love for souls. May we catch this same fire. The world needs Jesus now more than ever.

6. Faith attracts the supernatural.
   In Acts 14:8-10, a crippled man listened intently to Paul’s message. His faith was stirred, and he was healed instantly. This miracle happened as Paul preached.

7. Faith is key to receiving from God.

   “Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” - Mark 11:23
   “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt…” - James 1:6-8

   If we want to see more of God’s power at work, we must open our mouths and preach. Signs and wonders often follow the message.

8. Signs can attract the wrong kind of attention.
   The healing caused a stir. In Acts 14:11-13, the people began to treat Paul and Barnabas like gods. They brought sacrifices to worship them. This is why people sometimes fake miracles – to get attention. But Paul and Barnabas didn’t bask in the praise.

9. True ministers redirect the glory to God.
   In Acts 14:14-18, the apostles tore their clothes and ran to stop the people, using the opportunity to preach the gospel instead. Contrast that with Acts 12, where Herod accepted public worship and was struck down by God. Paul and Barnabas chose humility over popularity. Let’s be like Paul and Barnabas – vessels, not idols.

10. Opposition will always find a way to resurface.
    In Acts 14:19, Jews from other cities came just to oppose Paul and Barnabas. They stoned Paul and left him for dead. But God wasn’t done with him yet. Jesus told us plainly: “In this world, you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33

11. You can’t keep a man of purpose down.
    After being stoned, Paul got back up and continued preaching (Acts 14:20-21). Not only did he preach, he taught the new believers. Then, he boldly returned to the very cities where he had faced opposition. Lord, give us this same grace and grit for the mission you’ve given us. Amen

12. Tribulation is part of the journey.
    In Acts 14:22-23, Paul and Barnabas didn’t sugar-coat anything. They told the disciples plainly: “Through many tribulations, we must enter the Kingdom of God.” This was how they strengthened the believers’ faith – not by hiding the truth, but by preparing them for it.

13. The mission continued – and so should ours.
    The chapter closes with Paul and Barnabas traveling through more cities, preaching, and sharing testimonies of God’s work (Acts 14:24-28).

The key takeaway from this chapter is clear: Never get tired of sharing the love of Jesus. No matter the opposition, discomfort, or cost. I pray that God will give us the boldness of Paul, the resilience of Barnabas, and the passion to keep preaching no matter what. May our lives also bear witness to His power and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Nourish Your Spirit