Acts 14:22

Acts 14:22 records a pivotal message delivered by Paul and Barnabas to the new believers in various cities during their first missionary journey. This verse serves as a foundational truth about the nature of Christian discipleship, emphasizing both encouragement and the reality of challenges.

Context

After facing severe persecution in Lystra, where Paul was stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19), Paul and Barnabas revisited the cities where they had recently preached the Gospel: Derbe, Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch (of Pisidia). Their purpose was not just to check on the new converts but to strengthen them in their nascent faith before returning to Antioch in Syria. This journey, detailed in Acts chapters 13 and 14, demonstrates the apostles' commitment to nurturing the early church amidst significant opposition from both Jews and Gentiles.

Key Themes

• Confirmation and Exhortation: Paul and Barnabas actively sought to "confirm the souls of the disciples," which means strengthening, encouraging, and establishing them in their faith. This highlights the pastoral responsibility of leaders to nurture new believers. They also "exhorted them to continue in the faith," urging steadfastness and endurance.
• The Reality of Tribulation: The most striking message is the declaration that "we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." This isn't a suggestion but a necessity. It acknowledges that the path of faith is not always easy but often involves suffering, hardship, and persecution. This truth prepares believers for challenges rather than promising an unblemished life.
• The Kingdom of God: The ultimate goal of enduring tribulation is entrance into the "kingdom of God," which refers both to God's present spiritual reign in the hearts of believers and the future consummation of His eternal reign. This hope provides motivation for perseverance.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "confirming the souls" comes from the Greek word epistērizō (ἐπιστηρίζω), meaning "to strengthen, establish, make firm." It implies providing stability and support, much like reinforcing a structure. The word "tribulation" is from the Greek thlipsis (θλῖψις), which literally means "a pressing, pressure, oppression, distress." It conveys the idea of being squeezed or burdened, representing the various difficulties and persecutions believers face.

Related Scriptures

• This verse echoes the broader New Testament teaching that suffering is an expected part of the Christian life, as seen in Romans 5:3-5, where Paul states that "tribulation worketh patience."
• The call to "continue in the faith" is a recurring theme, emphasized by Jesus Himself in John 8:31 and by other apostles, such as Peter in 1 Peter 5:10.
• The concept of entering the "kingdom of God" through hardship aligns with Jesus' teaching about the narrow gate in Matthew 7:13-14 and the blessings promised to those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake in Matthew 5:10.

Practical Application

Acts 14:22 offers timeless encouragement and realism for believers today. It reminds us that:

1. Perseverance is Key: Faith is not a one-time decision but a lifelong journey requiring continuous commitment and endurance, especially when faced with adversity.
2. Expect Challenges: Tribulation is not a sign of God's displeasure but an integral part of the Christian experience that refines our faith and draws us closer to Him. This understanding helps prevent discouragement when difficulties arise.
3. The Goal is Worth It: The promise of entering the kingdom of God provides ultimate hope and motivation to endure present sufferings. It shifts our focus from temporal hardships to eternal rewards.
4. Support Each Other: Just as Paul and Barnabas strengthened the disciples, believers are called to encourage and confirm one another in faith, especially during times of trial.