Acts 14:21

KJV

And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and [to] Iconium, and Antioch,

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G5037} when they had preached the gospel {G2097} to that {G1565} city {G4172}, and {G2532} had taught {G3100} many {G2425}, they returned again {G5290} to {G1519} Lystra {G3082}, and {G2532} to Iconium {G2430}, and {G2532} Antioch {G490},

Complete Jewish Bible

After proclaiming the Good News in that city and making many people into talmidim, they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch,

Berean Standard Bible

They preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch,

American Standard Version

And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, and to Iconium, and to Antioch,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 14:21 marks a pivotal moment in Paul and Barnabas's First Missionary Journey, summarizing their fruitful ministry in Derbe and setting the stage for an audacious and courageous return to cities where they had faced brutal persecution. This verse highlights their unwavering commitment to the gospel and the nascent Christian communities, demonstrating a profound dedication to nurturing the faith of new believers despite personal risk.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows one of the most dramatic and life-threatening incidents in Paul's ministry: his stoning in Lystra, where he was left for dead outside the city walls ([Acts 14:19](/acts/14-19 "Acts 14:19 - Paul Stoned in Lystra")). Miraculously, he recovered and, with Barnabas, proceeded to Derbe, a city further east. In Derbe, their ministry was evidently successful, marked by both "preaching the gospel" and "teaching many," seemingly without the intense opposition encountered elsewhere. The decision to "return again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch" (of Pisidia) is a significant narrative turn, as these were precisely the places where they had been violently persecuted, threatened, or expelled ([Acts 14:5](/acts/14-5 "Acts 14:5 - Plot to Stone Paul and Barnabas in Iconium"), [Acts 14:19](/acts/14-19 "Acts 14:19 - Paul Stoned in Lystra"), [Acts 13:50](/acts/13-50 "Acts 13:50 - Paul and Barnabas Expelled from Antioch")). This return was not a retreat but a deliberate and dangerous act of strengthening the new believers and organizing the fledgling churches, leading directly into the appointment of elders and the final leg of their journey back to Antioch in Syria ([Acts 14:22-28](/acts/14-22-28 "Acts 14:22-28 - Strengthening the Churches and Return to Antioch")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul and Barnabas were operating within the Roman province of Galatia, a region known for its diverse populations, including Roman colonists, Greek-speaking natives, and Jewish communities. Travel in the ancient world was arduous and dangerous, often fraught with bandits, harsh terrain, and the constant threat of local unrest or official suspicion. For Christian missionaries, the danger was compounded by the novelty of their message, which often challenged established religious and social norms. Returning to cities like Lystra and Iconium, where they had faced mob violence and official expulsion, was an act of extraordinary courage. Stoning, while primarily a Jewish form of execution, could be instigated by a mob, as seen in Lystra, indicating the deep hostility they faced. Their willingness to re-enter such hostile environments underscores their conviction that the spiritual needs of the new converts outweighed their personal safety, reflecting a profound commitment to the mission given to them by God.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to the book of Acts and the broader New Testament. First, it highlights **Unwavering Perseverance** in the face of severe adversity. Paul and Barnabas exemplify extraordinary courage and resilience, choosing to re-engage with dangerous areas rather than avoid them. This demonstrates a deep commitment to the spiritual well-being of new converts, prioritizing discipleship over personal safety, a theme echoed in Paul's later letters regarding his sufferings for the gospel ([2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings")). Second, the verse underscores the dual nature of their ministry: **Effective Evangelism and Discipleship**. The phrase "preached the gospel" (Greek: *euangelizō*) signifies their initial outreach and proclamation of the good news, while "taught many" (Greek: *mathēteúō*) emphasizes the comprehensive nature of their ministry, moving beyond mere conversion to include ongoing instruction and spiritual formation. This aligns perfectly with the Great Commission to [make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey everything Christ commanded](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission"). Finally, their return signifies the crucial importance of **Strengthening the Early Church**. This follow-up was vital for consolidating the nascent Christian communities, providing encouragement, further instruction, and likely the appointment of elders, as detailed in [Acts 14:23](/acts/14-23 "Acts 14:23 - Appointment of Elders"). This commitment to follow-up and church organization was foundational for the stability and growth of the early Christian movement.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **preached the gospel (Greek, _euangelizō'_):** From *eu* (good) and *angelos* (messenger), this verb means "to announce good news," specifically the gospel of Jesus Christ. It signifies the active, public proclamation of the saving message of Christ's death and resurrection. In Acts 14:21, it denotes the initial outreach and communication of the core Christian message that led to conversions in Derbe.
* **taught (Greek, _mathēteúō'_):** Derived from *mathētēs* (disciple), this verb means "to become a pupil" or, transitively, "to disciple" or "to enrol as a scholar." It implies a deeper, ongoing process of instruction, training, and spiritual formation beyond initial conversion. This word highlights the comprehensive nature of Paul and Barnabas's ministry, which extended to nurturing and equipping new believers for life in Christ.
* **returned again (Greek, _hypostréphō'_):** This compound verb, from *hypo* (under/behind) and *strephō* (to turn), means "to turn back" or "to return." In this context, it emphasizes the deliberate and purposeful act of retracing their steps to cities from which they had been driven out. It underscores their unwavering resolve and commitment to the churches they had planted, despite the significant personal danger involved.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when they had preached the gospel to that city":** This clause describes the successful initial phase of Paul and Barnabas's ministry in Derbe. "That city" refers to Derbe, where they proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ. The use of "preached the gospel" (euangelizō) indicates the foundational evangelistic work that led to the establishment of a Christian community there.
* **"and had taught many":** Following the initial proclamation, this phrase indicates the subsequent and equally vital work of discipleship. "Taught many" (mathēteúō) suggests a period of instruction and spiritual formation for the new converts in Derbe, moving them beyond mere belief to a deeper understanding and application of Christian truth. This highlights the comprehensive nature of their ministry, which included both conversion and spiritual growth.
* **"they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch":** This final clause reveals the astonishing and courageous decision of Paul and Barnabas. Instead of continuing their journey to safer territories, they deliberately retraced their steps through cities where they had faced severe persecution—Lystra (where Paul was stoned), Iconium (where they faced a plot to stone them), and Antioch of Pisidia (from which they were expelled). This return was not a retreat but a strategic and dangerous act of pastoral care and church consolidation, demonstrating their profound commitment to the fledgling Christian communities they had established.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 14:21 employs several effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Juxtaposition**, specifically the stark contrast between the successful, relatively peaceful ministry in Derbe and the perilous decision to return to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch—cities previously marked by intense persecution and violence against the apostles. This highlights the extraordinary courage and commitment of Paul and Barnabas. There is also a strong sense of **Narrative Progression** as the verse marks a turning point from outward expansion to inward consolidation, setting the stage for the strengthening of the new churches. The repeated mention of the cities (Lystra, Iconium, Antioch) serves as a form of **Anaphora** (though not strictly at the beginning of clauses, it's a list that emphasizes the specific, dangerous destinations), underscoring the deliberate and challenging nature of their return journey. Furthermore, the verse implicitly uses **Understatement** regarding the dangers involved; simply stating "they returned again" belies the immense risk and the miraculous nature of their previous survival in these very places.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 14:21 profoundly illustrates the nature of authentic apostolic ministry, which transcends personal safety for the sake of the gospel and the spiritual well-being of the flock. It underscores the divine imperative not only to proclaim the good news but also to nurture, instruct, and organize those who respond. This commitment reflects God's own faithfulness in sustaining His people and His work, even amidst intense opposition. The apostles' actions demonstrate that the mission of the church is not merely about making converts but about building mature, resilient communities of faith capable of enduring trials and carrying forward the gospel. Their perseverance in the face of suffering directly mirrors the suffering of Christ and serves as a model for all who would follow Him, emphasizing that the path of discipleship often involves hardship for the sake of the Kingdom.

* [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")
* [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "Philippians 1:6 - God's Faithfulness to Complete His Work")
* [2 Timothy 4:2](/2_timothy/4-2 "2 Timothy 4:2 - Preach the Word in All Seasons")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 14:21 offers a compelling blueprint for Christian living and ministry, challenging believers to embrace a faith characterized by courage, perseverance, and a deep commitment to discipleship. Paul and Barnabas's willingness to return to places of persecution reminds us that following Christ often means stepping into uncomfortable or even dangerous situations for the sake of His Kingdom. It calls us to prioritize the spiritual growth and stability of others, even when it demands personal sacrifice. This verse encourages us to move beyond initial evangelism to the vital, often unseen, work of teaching, nurturing, and strengthening fellow believers. It highlights the enduring importance of the local church as the primary vehicle for spiritual formation and community, urging us to invest in its health and growth. Ultimately, it is a call to courageous, comprehensive, and Christ-centered discipleship, modeling a life lived fully for God's purposes, regardless of the cost.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in your life or ministry are you called to persevere despite past difficulties or present fears?**
* **How can you move beyond simply "preaching the gospel" to more intentionally "teaching many" in your sphere of influence?**
* **In what ways can you contribute to strengthening your local church community, even when it requires personal sacrifice or courage?**

### FAQ
**Why did Paul and Barnabas return to cities where they had been persecuted?**

Answer: Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch (of Pisidia) not out of recklessness, but out of a profound pastoral commitment to the new believers and churches they had established. Their primary motivation was to strengthen, encourage, and organize these nascent Christian communities. As the subsequent verses in [Acts 14:22-23](/acts/14-22-23 "Acts 14:22-23 - Strengthening Disciples and Appointing Elders") explain, they were "strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God." They also appointed elders in every church, ensuring leadership and stability. This demonstrates their understanding that evangelism is incomplete without discipleship and the establishment of functioning, resilient local churches. Their return was a testament to their unwavering dedication to the gospel and the spiritual well-being of their converts, prioritizing the growth of God's Kingdom over their personal safety.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 14:21, though describing the actions of Paul and Barnabas, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the very nature and mission of Jesus Himself. Just as the apostles "preached the gospel" and "taught many," so too did Jesus tirelessly proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God and instruct His disciples ([Mark 1:14-15](/mark/1-14-15 "Mark 1:14-15 - Jesus Preaches the Gospel of God"), [Matthew 4:23](/matthew/4-23 "Matthew 4:23 - Jesus Teaches and Heals")). Their courageous "return" to hostile territories echoes Christ's own unwavering commitment to His mission, even knowing it would lead to suffering and death in Jerusalem ([Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus Resolves to Go to Jerusalem")). Jesus, the Good Shepherd, did not abandon His flock but laid down His life for them ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")). The apostles' perseverance in the face of persecution directly mirrors the suffering and triumph of Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of Faith")). Their work of strengthening the early church is a continuation of Christ's foundational work of building His church, against which the gates of hell will not prevail ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Jesus Builds His Church")). Thus, Acts 14:21 is not merely a record of human courage, but a demonstration of the Spirit-empowered, Christ-like dedication required for the advancement of God's redemptive plan, ultimately fulfilled in the ongoing work of the resurrected Lord through His body, the Church ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 14:19

¶ And there came thither [certain] Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew [him] out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

Acts 13:51

But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.

Acts 14:1

¶ And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.

Acts 14:6

They were ware of [it], and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:

Matthew 28:19

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Acts 13:14

¶ But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.

2 Timothy 3:11

Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of [them] all the Lord delivered me.