Proverbs Exposition

In our studies of Acts 13 we focused on the fact that these early missionaries were committed to telling the truth. As they embarked on their first missionary journey from the church in in Syrian Antioch they did so “sent out by the Holy Spirit” (13:4), who emboldened them to declare the gospel truth everywhere they landed. They began in Cyprus and, after travelling several hundred kilometres by land and sea, eventually arrived in southern Galatia (modern day Turkey). They began in the synagogue, and after an initial positive reception, things began to heat up (at the instigation of unbelieving Jews), with the result that they shook the dust from their feet (13:51) and headed another 120 kilometres in a southeasterly direction until they came to Iconium. This is where we find them at the beginning of Acts 14. I was struck in recent weeks as I read this text by the observation that Paul and Barnabas persevered in telling the truth in this region—and in synagogues no less—despite opposition. In fact, in some ways it seems that the opposition actually goaded them to do so! These men did not cave in to “fainting fits,” but rather persevered in the face of problems and even in the face of persecution. It is for this reason that we will study 14:1-7 under the theme of “Gospel Perseverance.” May the Lord use His Word to propel us to persevere as well.

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From Series: "Acts Exposition"

This series comprises the sermons preached at BBC during an exposition of the book of Acts.

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