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Acts 14

And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.

But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.

Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.

And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,

They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:

And there they preached the gospel.

And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:

The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,

Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked.

And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.

And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.

Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.

Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,

And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:

Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.

Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.

And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.

And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,

Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.

And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:

And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.

And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

And there they abode long time with the disciples.

What does Acts 14:7 mean?

Explanation

The verse Acts 14:7 "[And there they preached the gospel.]" is a concise statement reflecting the missionary work of Paul and Barnabas during their first missionary journey.

It encapsulates the primary mission of the two apostles, which was to spread the "good news" or gospel of Jesus Christ.

The literal meaning of this verse is straightforward , Paul and Barnabas were in a particular location, where they proclaimed the Christian message.

The deeper meaning signifies the commitment of the early church to evangelism and spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ irrespective of the geographic or cultural boundaries.

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Historical Context

Acts 14 falls within the account of Paul's first missionary journey (around AD 47-48), which took them through various regions including Cyprus, Pisidia, and Lycaonia.

Specifically, the context before and after verse 7 indicates that Paul and Barnabas had recently fled from Iconium due to a plot against their lives.

They continued in their mission, traveling to Lystra and Derbe, cities in the region of Lycaonia.

During this era, traveling and preaching were risky endeavors often met with hostility.

Paul and Barnabas faced both violent opposition and misunderstanding, as people in these regions had their own religious beliefs and were not familiar with Judaism or Christianity.

Theological Insights

Different denominations might interpret this verse within various theological frameworks:

Mission Theology: Highlights the role of the church in world evangelization, with a focus on the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
Soteriology: Emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel as the means for bringing individuals to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Ecclesiology: Reflects on the nature and function of the early church as a missionary community.

Practical Applications

In contemporary Christian living, Acts 14:7 encourages believers to be active in sharing their faith.

It can inspire individuals and churches to participate in mission work, both locally and abroad, regardless of potential challenges or cultural differences.

Believers are also reminded that the proclamation of the gospel is a central aspect of Christian identity and purpose.

Cross-References

Mark 16:15: "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."
Romans 10:14-15: "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?"
Acts 13:49: "And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region."
Matthew 28:19-20: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek language of this verse are worth examining:

"Preached" (Greek: εὐαγγελίζω, evangelizo): Often translated as "preach the gospel," it signifies the act of bringing good news or glad tidings.
"Gospel" (Greek: εὐαγγέλιον, euangelion): It means "good news," particularly the message of salvation offered through Jesus Christ.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Christianity, emerging from a Jewish context, differed significantly from the polytheistic religions common in the ancient world.

In the religious landscape of the first century, where local gods and myths were prevalent, the proclamation of a single God and the resurrection of Jesus would have been radical and countercultural.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse itself does not directly interact with scientific understandings, its implications of missionary travel tie into of historical geography and anthropology. Understanding the geographic spread of Christianity can be examined through archaeological findings and sociological patterns.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commentated on Acts 14:7, offering perspectives that stress the historical, contextual, and textual significance:

John Calvin notes the simplicity of their preaching and the powerful effect of the gospel when it is plainly delivered.
Matthew Henry emphasizes the perseverance of Paul and Barnabas, who continued to preach despite opposition.
William Barclay highlights the adaptability of their mission, adjusting their message to the understanding of their audience, which varied among Jewish and Gentile cities.

Acts 14

Acts 14

What does Acts 14:7 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated Acts Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?

What does Acts 14:7 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated Acts Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?