1 1-3 When they got to Iconium they went, as they always did, to the meeting place of the Jews and gave their message. The Message convinced both Jews and non-Jews—and not just a few, either. But the unbelieving Jews worked up a whispering campaign against Paul and Barnabas, sowing mistrust and suspicion in the minds of the people in the street. The two apostles were there a long time, speaking freely, openly, and confidently as they presented the clear evidence of God’s gifts, God corroborating their work with miracles and wonders.
4-7 But then there was a split in public opinion, some siding with the Jews, some with the apostles. One day, learning that both the Jews and non-Jews had been organized by their leaders to beat them up, they escaped as best they could to the next towns—Lyconia, Lystra, Derbe, and that neighborhood—but then were right back at it again, getting out the Message.
Paul and Barnabas were filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaimed message of Gospel inspired by the Spirit, and their works were also corroborated by the Spirit with miracles and wonders. At the same time, the enemy sowed seeds of mistrust and suspicion among the people. Paul and Barnabas were forced to escape from Iconium but continued to preach in other towns.
The ministry of Paul and Barnabas demonstrated also the ministry life for people of God today. All our whole being and our works shall be moved by the Spirit. Our words of witness shall be inspired by the Spirit particularly through the words of God; our works of witness shall be corroborated by the works of the Spirit (signs, wonders); and our footsteps shall be led by the Spirit no matter the circumstances are free and open, or desperate and unclear in the future. The Holy Spirit blesses the work of His servants who completely surrender to the sovereignty and good will of the Spirit in their lives and ministries.
Dear Holy Spirit, please continue to speak and work in your church and your people, particularly in your servants and those who are mourning in their pains. May your healing come upon them that they can receive joy again and shout praise to you.
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