Paul and Barnabas were on a missionary journey throughout the Roman province of Lycaonia, where they preached the gospel of the risen Christ. As a result, many believed and were born again of faith.
However, such good deeds would not go by unnoticed by the enemy. Then, through skeptics, Satan went on the offensive against the missionaries.
“19 Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.” (Acts 14:19)
Paul and Barnabas were raising quite a stir in each city they visited, sharing the truth about the life, death and resurrection Jesus, the begotten Son of Yahweh, the God os Israel.
Because their message was contradictory to the teaching of the Jews, and also based on the disappointment they caused when they refused to be worshipped as gods in Lystra, again the missionaries found themselves under attack just as in every city along their journey. This time, it would be Paul who suffered in the way of stoning, apparently to his death.
“20 However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose up and went into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.” (Acts 14:20)
Stoning was a form of capital punishment among Jews. Paul’s stoning was undoubtedly to death, however God’s plan for the disciple would miraculously have the missionary survive the stoning.
After he recovered from the stoning, and according to commands given by Jesus, Paul, joined by Barnabas left Lystra on their way to Derbe where the disciples continued their mission to advance the gospel of the risen Christ. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Luke,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com
