The Gospel in Iconium

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Mar 13, 1884

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 10, No. 11.

The Gospel in Iconium.

THE first time that the Saviour sent forth the twelve disciples to preach, his instruction was, "When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another." Matt. 10:23. The idea of being discouraged or giving up the contest was never entertained for a moment, even under the most adverse circumstances. "He that endureth to the end shall be saved." Verse 22. In harmony with the Master's precept and example, Paul and Barnabas, when expelled from Antioch and the province of Pisidia, patiently moved on to Iconium, the chief city of Lycaonia. Here success crowned their first effort, and a great multitude both of Jews and also of the Greeks believed." Acts 14:1.

More Trouble.

BUT no true missionary of the cross ever found a very long stretch of smooth sailing; and the apostle but spoke his own bitter experience when, on his return trip, he assured the churches raised up on this tour that "we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." Verse 22. The experience of those ministers is in marked contrast with a recent comment in a leading denominational organ. Speaking of the improvements made by a prominent pastor in his church and parsonage, it was said that "he would soon have things just as nice as any one could wish." The first success at Iconium aroused the jealousy and envy of the Jews; their influence was at stake, as it had been at other places, and they stirred up strife against the new teachers. They incited the Gentiles to opposition, and invoked the power of the authorities of the city, bringing charges of evil designs on the part of Paul and Barnabas when they should have gained the adherence of the people. However, the Lord "gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands." Verse 3. Here again was the proof that no one can resist the wisdom and power of the Spirit of truth. All the temporary victories that have ever been gained by the enemy have been by falsehood and deception, or by brute force. And even these apparent triumphs have always been in some way turned to the glory of God.

Paul and Barnabas Fled.

FINALLY "there was an assault made," with the intent of stoning the ministers of Christ, and they being made aware of it, "fled unto Lystra and Derbe," in the same province. There was no cowardice about this fleeing. A "long time" they had abode there "speaking boldly in the Lord," notwithstanding the determined opposition of their enemies. Paul, especially, proved by his whole life that he was no coward, and his coming back to Iconium in a short time afterward is evidence that he was not actuated in feeling by any dread of physical consequences. He could do no more good there at that time, and his mission to the Gentile world had but commenced. The Master himself evaded attempts upon his life by fleeing, when he could have conquered his enemies upon the spot. John 8:59; 10:39. No disciple is justified in unnecessarily exposing himself to danger, as the glory of God and the honor of his cause can in no way be upheld by mere bravado of puny humanity. Let all courage be in the Lord, and let his Spirit dictate when to stand and when to flee. A firm trust will insure the guidance.

Unselfish Zeal.

NEVER were the freaks of human nature, or the vicissitudes of the Christian life and ministry more clearly demonstrated than at Lystra, on the occasion of the first visit of the missionaries. There was no Jewish synagogue here, and but few Jews. Utter strangers, Paul and Barnabas gathered the people about them as best they could, and made known the gospel of Christ. In the assembly was a poor cripple who had never been able to walk. Paul saw that he had faith, and healed him. With all the excitement characteristic of heathenism, the people set about to worship the apostles. Had the ministers been seeking their own glory or pecuniary gain—as was charged against Paul by the false apostles of Corinth, and has often been charged by the enemies of Christ since—here was their opportunity. The people believed they were gods come down from heaven, and were ready to comply with any outward demand. But they disclaimed all honor, and endeavored to show the people that it was from this kind of worship that their teaching was designed to turn them. And the next thing we are told is that this same excitable community, under other leaders, are incited to put to death those whom they but a short time previous were ready to honor with sacrifice and worship. So much for the wisdom of men.