Read Acts 14
An amazing missionary journey this certainly was. Miracles, signs and wonders confirmed the message of the Gospel. People were amazed. Many became followers of Jesus Christ, but some saw the miracles as signs that Zeus and Hermes (gods in the Greek pantheon) had visited earth in the form of Paul and Barnabas. There were many misunderstandings for sure. And there was severe opposition, especially from the groups that were losing membership (Jews in the synagogues in particular). After being stoned nearly to death Paul and escaped to bring the Gospel to new areas. Leadership was appointed and established in each place where new followers of Jesus were gathering.
I like what it says in the final verse. When the missionary task was completed they came back to their home church…and stayed a long time. They needed to rest and be encouraged from all they had gone through in sharing the Gospel among the new people groups and cities. It is good to go. And it is good to come home.
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