Acts 14:5
And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Iewes, with their rulers, to vse them despitefully, and to stone them, Acts 14:5 (KJV)
Acts 14:5 is part of the narrative describing the events of Paul and Barnabas’ missionary journey in Iconium. Prior to traveling to Lystra, Paul and Barnabas preached in Iconium (Acts 14:1‑4), where a great number of Jews and Gentiles believed, but a division arose among the people and opposition intensified.
Acts 14:5 records that both Gentiles and Jews, together with their rulers, joined together in an effort to mistreat and stone Paul and Barnabas. Stoning was a severe form of violence in the ancient world and often resulted in death.
The experiences of Paul and Barnabas remind us that opposition and persecution are common in the life of a Christian, especially when sharing the gospel and engaging in ministry. Jesus warned His disciples that they would face adversity but encouraged them to persevere (John 15:20).
Acts 14:5 shows how religious leaders can mobilize others against the message of the gospel, illustrating that the proclamation of the gospel may encounter opposition from unexpected sources and that people from different backgrounds can unite against it.
Despite the hostility they faced, Paul and Barnabas continued to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Later, after they were actually stoned in Lystra (Acts 14:19‑20), God’s providence enabled them to recover and press on, demonstrating that He can sustain and strengthen believers amid persecution.
Acts 14:6‑7 record Paul and Barnabas shaking the dust from their feet as a symbolic act of departure, and their subsequent survival after being stoned highlights God’s protective care. This reminds believers of the importance of trusting in God’s sovereignty and seeking His guidance and protection in times of difficulty.
Overall, Acts 14:5 provides insight into the challenges faced by early missionaries and serves as a reminder of the opposition that can arise when sharing the gospel. It also encourages believers to trust in God’s faithfulness, seek His guidance, and remain steadfast in the face of persecution.
