In Iconium they entered the synagogue of the Jews together, and spoke in such a manner that a large number of people believed, both of Jews and of Greeks. But the Jews who disbelieved stirred up the minds of the Gentiles and embittered them against the brethren. Acts 14:1–2
Paul and Barnabas could not resist taking a swing at the Jews once more in Iconium, selecting again the synagogue in which to launch their crusade in the city. Again, the message rang true with a large number of Jews and Greeks, but a cadre of zealously jealous Jews worked the crowds to discredit the apostles, focusing on the Greeks who were easier marks.
Jesus talked about this unfortunate realty in Luke 8:5, “The sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell beside the road, and it was trampled under foot and the birds of the air ate it up.”
Therefore they spent a long time there speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord, who was testifying to the word of His grace, granting that signs and wonders be done by their hands. Acts 14:3
But Paul and Barnabas boldly bore down aided by the empowerment of God to do “signs and wonders,” but incredibly, there was still a resilient pocket of resistance.
But the people of the city were divided; and some sided with the Jews, and some with the apostles. (14:4)
Then, just like with Jesus, the Jews encouraged the rulers to use force against them, even to stone them, but hearing of this, they slipped away to Lycaonia, Lystra and Derbe. While it seemed that Satan got the upper hand in Iconium, the evil one emptied his chambers on them and they got away, leaving behind new believers in their wake. And amazingly they’d soon be back!
After they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Acts 14-21-22
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