BibleProject | Upside-Down Kingdom / Part 2 - ActsSample

After Paul and Barnabas are driven out of Antioch, they travel to the city of Iconium with the good news about Jesus’ Kingdom. Some believe their message, but those who reject it actively stir up trouble against them. Things become so heated that the whole city divides on the issue. And when the disciples become aware of death threats against them, they move on to the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra, Derbe, and the surrounding regions.

While in Lystra, Paul meets a man who had never walked before. When Paul heals him by the power of Jesus, the people mistakenly think he must be a Greek god that came down to visit them, so they try to worship him. Paul and Barnabas rush to correct the people, insisting that there is only one true God and they are his servants. But the people don’t really get it, and they are quickly convinced by Paul and Barnabas’ enemies that they should instead execute Paul. They throw stones at Paul until he becomes unconscious. They assume he’s dead and drag his body out of Lystra. Paul’s friends surround him and are amazed as they watch him stand and walk right back into the city. The next day, Paul and Barnabas visit Derbe to preach the Gospel and then come right back to Lystra and the surrounding cities to appoint more leaders for each new church and encourage the Christians to persevere through hardship.

Read, Reflect, and Respond:

• What surprised, concerned, or amazed you as you read today’s chapter? 
• Take note of the words the apostles shared to strengthen the churches (see 14:22). What hardships have you faced in life because of your reliance on Jesus? How does this message encourage you today?
• Turn your reading and reflections into a prayer. Talk to God about what inspired amazement and how you agree with his message. Be honest about your fears, and ask him for what you need to persevere.