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SIGNS AND WONDERS

Act 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.

Long time therefore abode (diatribo: to remain under pressure) 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.

It took some time for opposition to be stirred up against Paul and Barnabas, so they wasted no
time in proclaiming the message of salvation. As they preach the Word, God confirms it with
signs and wonders following. God always backs the message of grace with signs and wonders
(Galatians 3:5).

Signs and wonders are God’s way of making it difficult to say no to the gospel and teaching of
the Word. Those in Iconium have to make an effort to ignore the miracles and healings and
refuse salvation.

Act 14:4 But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with
the apostles.

Even though there are miracles and healings, many are so hardened they will not believe, even
with the display of the supernatural. The city is divided down the middle (Matthew 10:34).

The first four verses of this chapter reveal that the results of the word are always the same.
Some accept the gospel, and others reject it. This was the case in Antioch of Pisidia and now is
in Iconium. Verse 3 tells us God performed miracles in Iconium, but in Antioch none were
performed (Acts 13). In some cities miracles are performed, and in some they are not. One city
does not set a standard. One event does not establish a pattern. God works differently in each
city, but the Word is always preached.

Manifestations will always differ. One method of witnessing does not set a precedent. One
method for success in life does not set the norm for everyone. How you spend your time in
study, prayer, praise, and worship is up to you. How you apply God’s principles is up to you.
Jesus did not witness or minister healing to any two people the same way. It is important to
stay open to the Holy Spirit.

PERSECUTION

Act 14:5 And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with
their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,

Behind the scenes, there is a joint effort by the Jews and Gentiles to kill Paul and Barnabas and
make a public example of them.