Acts 14:3

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.

Acts 14:3 (KJV)

Context

Paul and Barnabas were on a missionary journey when they arrived in Iconium. Acts 14:1-2 records that they preached in the Jewish synagogue, many believed, and unbelieving Jews stirred up opposition. Acts 14:3 shows that despite this trouble, the apostles remained for a long time.

Meaning

“Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord” – Paul and Barnabas were not timid. They spoke with courage and confidence, relying on the Lord’s strength and support. Their boldness was not self-generated; it came from their trust in God’s presence and power.

“Which gave testimony unto the word of his grace” – Their preaching bore witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ, which teaches that salvation is a free gift received through faith, not earned by works. The message highlighted God’s loving and merciful nature and how His grace transforms lives.

“And granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands” – God confirmed their message with miraculous works performed through them. These signs were not by their own power but were enabled by the Lord, serving as evidence that their message was from God. Throughout Acts, miracles and healings accompany the apostles’ preaching, authenticating the gospel.

Biblical connections

The pattern of bold proclamation followed by divine confirmation appears throughout Acts. As the apostles spoke, God bore witness to His word, showing that signs and wonders always serve the message of grace, not independent displays of power.

Application

This verse encourages believers to speak the gospel boldly, relying on the Lord’s strength even in the face of opposition. It also reassures us that God confirms His word, often through His own powerful works, to establish and strengthen faith.

Reflection

Consider how God might be calling you to speak His grace boldly, trusting that He will confirm His word in His own way and time.