Chapter Summary

Work of the Gospel at Iconium, Derbe, Lystra. An impotent man at Lystra healed. Paul stoned. Elders appointed in the churches.

Discussion Questions for Acts, Chapter 14

1. Paul and Barnabas face both acceptance and opposition in their missionary journey. How does their resilience in the face of adversity inspire us to persevere in our own ministries and evangelism efforts?
2. How do Paul and Barnabas adapt their approach to sharing the Gospel based on the cultural context of the communities they visit? What can we learn from their example about the importance of contextualizing the message of Christ in diverse cultural settings?
3. Paul heals a man in Lystra, leading the local people to mistake him and Barnabas for gods. How does this incident challenge our understanding of miracles and the role of signs and wonders in confirming the Gospel message?
4. Paul and Barnabas share their testimony of God's grace and provision with the people they encounter. How does the power of personal testimony contribute to the effectiveness of their ministry? How can we share our own testimonies to impact others for Christ?
5. Paul and Barnabas experience persecution and rejection in Iconium and Lystra. How does their response to opposition demonstrate courage and faithfulness to their mission? How can we respond to persecution and rejection in our own lives with similar faithfulness?
6. How do the responses of the people in Lystra and Derbe to Paul's preaching illustrate the diversity of reactions encountered in evangelism? What can we learn from Paul's approach to engaging with different audiences?
7. Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in the churches they establish. How does this practice reflect their commitment to raising up indigenous leaders in the early Christian communities? How can churches today prioritize the development of local leaders in their ministries?
8. Paul and Barnabas encourage and strengthen the believers in the churches they visit. How does their pastoral care for the fledgling Christian communities demonstrate the importance of discipleship and nurturing spiritual growth?
9. How does the faith and prayerfulness of Paul and Barnabas contribute to the success of their ministry despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles? How can we cultivate a similar dependence on God in our own lives and ministries?
10. Through their actions and teachings, Paul and Barnabas reflect the love and compassion of Christ to those they encounter. How can we emulate their example of embodying Christ's love in our interactions with others, especially those who are marginalized or in need?

Key Words/Phrase

Giving testimony, v. 3.

Characters

God, Paul, Barnabas, impotent man, priest of Jupiter.

Strong Verse(s)

22