Acts 14:6

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

They were ware {G4894} of it, and fled {G2703} unto {G1519} Lystra {G3082} and {G2532} Derbe {G1191}, cities {G4172} of Lycaonia {G3071}, and {G2532} unto the region that lieth round about {G4066}:

Complete Jewish Bible

but they learned of it and escaped to Lystra and Derbe, towns in Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country,

Berean Standard Bible

they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding region,

American Standard Version

they became aware of it, and fled unto the cities of Lycaonia, Lystra and Derbe, and the region round about:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 14:6 records a pivotal moment in Paul and Barnabas's first missionary journey, detailing their strategic withdrawal from Iconium to Lystra and Derbe. After facing severe opposition and a planned stoning, the apostles, demonstrating both spiritual discernment and practical wisdom, relocated their evangelistic efforts to neighboring cities within the region of Lycaonia. This verse highlights their unwavering commitment to the gospel mission, even in the face of intense persecution, illustrating that prudence can be a vital component of faithful ministry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 14:6 serves as a crucial transition point following a period of intense ministry and mounting opposition in Iconium. The preceding verses (Acts 14:1-5) describe Paul and Barnabas's successful preaching in the synagogue and among Gentiles, leading to a "great multitude" of believers. However, this success also inflamed the unbelieving Jews and some Gentiles, who incited the crowds and plotted violence, specifically a stoning. This verse, therefore, marks the apostles' informed response to this imminent danger, leading them to new fields of ministry in Lystra and Derbe, which are then detailed in the subsequent narrative of Acts 14:7-20, recounting further miracles, mistaken identity, and continued persecution. The narrative flow emphasizes the dynamic nature of early Christian evangelism, marked by both divine power and human opposition.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe were cities located in the Roman province of Galatia, specifically within the region of Lycaonia, in Asia Minor. Iconium was a more established and Hellenized city, whereas Lystra and Derbe were smaller, more rural communities, likely with a stronger native Lycaonian language spoken alongside Greek. Stoning was a recognized form of capital punishment, particularly associated with Jewish law (as seen in the execution of [Stephen](/acts/7-58 "Acts 7:58 - The Stoning of Stephen")). The plot to stone Paul and Barnabas was a serious threat to their lives. Their flight was not merely a change of venue but a strategic move to preserve their ministry in a time when travel between cities, though challenging, was common for Roman citizens and missionaries. This highlights the practical realities and dangers faced by early Christian evangelists operating within the diverse socio-political landscape of the Roman Empire.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several significant themes. First, it underscores the **reality of persecution** for those who faithfully proclaim the gospel, a theme consistent with Christ's warnings to His disciples (e.g., [Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Fleeing Persecution")). Second, it demonstrates **spiritual prudence and wisdom** in ministry. Paul and Barnabas's decision to flee was not an act of cowardice but a strategic choice to preserve their lives for continued gospel proclamation, echoing Jesus' own example of withdrawing from danger (e.g., [John 7:1](/john/7-1 "John 7:1 - Jesus Avoids Judea")). Third, the verse highlights their **unwavering commitment to the mission**. Their flight was a tactical repositioning, not an abandonment of their call. They immediately continued their work in Lystra and Derbe, showing that the mission of spreading the Good News remained paramount, regardless of the immediate geographical challenges. Finally, the phrase "they were ware of [it]" subtly suggests **divine guidance or providential awareness**, indicating that God was actively involved in protecting and directing His servants.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **ware (Greek, _syneídō'_):** This verb (G4894) means "to see completely," implying to understand, perceive, or become aware. In this context, it signifies that Paul and Barnabas gained a clear, definite, and perhaps divinely-imparted understanding of the plot against them. It was not a vague suspicion but a concrete awareness that prompted their action.
* **fled (Greek, _katapheúgō'_):** Derived from _katá_ (down) and _pheúgō_ (to flee), this verb (G2703) means "to flee down (away)." It denotes a swift, decisive, and deliberate departure in response to imminent danger. This was an urgent escape, not a leisurely relocation, emphasizing the severity of the threat they faced.
* **cities (Greek, _pólis'_):** This noun (G4172) refers to a "town" or "city," properly one with walls, indicating a populated, organized settlement of varying size. The use of the plural "cities" (Lystra and Derbe) highlights the expansion of their ministry into multiple new urban centers, demonstrating their continued commitment to reaching populated areas with the gospel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They were ware of [it]":** This clause indicates that Paul and Barnabas received definite information or a clear understanding of the plot to stone them. This awareness was crucial, allowing them to respond proactively rather than being caught unawares. It suggests a keen spiritual discernment or even a providential warning, enabling them to perceive the imminent danger.
* **"and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia":** In response to their awareness of the threat, the apostles made a swift and intentional departure. Their destination was specific: Lystra and Derbe, identified as "cities of Lycaonia." This highlights their strategic decision to continue their ministry in a new, yet geographically proximate, region, indicating that their flight was a tactical repositioning for continued evangelism, not a retreat from their calling.
* **"and unto the region that lieth round about":** This final phrase broadens the scope of their intended ministry beyond just the two cities. "The region that lieth round about" (Greek, _períchōros_, G4066) implies the surrounding rural areas and villages. This demonstrates their comprehensive approach to evangelism, aiming to spread the gospel not only in urban centers but also in the surrounding countryside, ensuring a wide dissemination of the Good News.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Narrative Progression** by swiftly moving the apostles from a place of danger to new fields of ministry, maintaining the dynamic pace of the missionary journey. The precise **Geographical Detail** (Lystra, Derbe, Lycaonia) grounds the narrative in historical reality, lending credibility and allowing the reader to trace the apostles' movements. The use of **Prudence** as a virtue is implicitly highlighted; their "awareness" and subsequent "flight" are presented as wise and necessary actions, not cowardly ones, aligning with a biblical understanding of discernment in the face of persecution. This strategic withdrawal is a form of **Divine Providence** at work, as their awareness and escape allow them to continue their mission elsewhere, suggesting God's guiding hand in their journey.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 14:6 powerfully illustrates the intersection of divine providence and human prudence in the advancement of God's kingdom. Paul and Barnabas's informed retreat was not a failure of faith but a demonstration of wisdom, recognizing that their lives were valuable for the ongoing mission. This act underscores that faithfulness to Christ does not always demand martyrdom at the first sign of opposition, but often requires strategic discernment to maximize gospel impact. Their immediate resumption of ministry in new locations further emphasizes the unstoppable nature of the gospel and the apostles' unwavering commitment to their divine commission, even when faced with severe threats. This event serves as a model for believers navigating opposition, demonstrating that preserving one's ability to serve can be a Spirit-led decision.

* [Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Fleeing Persecution")
* [2 Corinthians 11:32-33](/2_corinthians/11-32-33 "2 Corinthians 11:32-33 - Paul's Escape from Damascus")
* [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment Advances the Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 14:6 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers facing various forms of opposition or challenging circumstances. It teaches us that spiritual courage is not synonymous with recklessness. There are times when wisdom dictates a strategic withdrawal, a change of approach, or a relocation, not out of fear, but out of a desire to preserve one's capacity for continued service to God's kingdom. This verse encourages us to cultivate discernment, praying for the Holy Spirit's guidance to know when to stand firm and when to tactically reposition. Our ultimate goal remains the faithful proclamation of the gospel and living out our callings, and sometimes that requires flexibility and adaptability, trusting that God will open new doors even when others close. It reminds us that our mission is paramount, and preserving our ability to fulfill it is a responsible act of stewardship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When have I faced opposition in my faith or ministry, and how did I respond?**
* **How do I discern between standing firm and strategically withdrawing in challenging situations?**
* **What does "prudence" look like in my Christian walk, and how can I cultivate it more deeply?**
* **Am I willing to be flexible and adapt my methods or location if it means continuing to serve God effectively?**

### FAQ

**Was Paul and Barnabas's flight an act of cowardice?**

Answer: No, their flight was not an act of cowardice but a demonstration of spiritual wisdom and strategic prudence. The text indicates "they were ware of [it]," implying a clear understanding of the severe and imminent threat (a planned stoning). Jesus Himself instructed His disciples to flee persecution in one city to another ([Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Jesus' Instruction to Flee Persecution")). Paul and Barnabas were not abandoning their mission but strategically repositioning themselves to continue their evangelistic work in Lystra and Derbe, ensuring the gospel could still be proclaimed. Their actions reflect a commitment to the mission over unnecessary martyrdom, preserving their lives for further ministry.

**Why did they choose Lystra and Derbe specifically?**

Answer: Lystra and Derbe were cities in the same Roman province of Galatia, specifically within the region of Lycaonia, but distinct from Iconium. This made them accessible and logical next steps for their missionary journey. By moving to these cities, Paul and Barnabas were able to continue their work among both Jews and Gentiles in a new area, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel throughout the region. Their choice likely reflected a combination of geographical proximity and the Spirit's guidance, opening new doors for ministry after the intense opposition in Iconium. The narrative in [Acts 14:7-20](/acts/14-7-20 "Acts 14:7-20 - Paul and Barnabas in Lystra and Derbe") details their activities in these new locations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 14:6, though describing the actions of Paul and Barnabas, ultimately points to the greater example and mission of Jesus Christ. Just as the apostles strategically withdrew to continue their ministry, Jesus Himself often withdrew from crowds or hostile situations to fulfill His Father's will and complete His appointed work (e.g., [John 7:1](/john/7-1 "John 7:1 - Jesus Avoids Judea"), [Matthew 12:15](/matthew/12-15 "Matthew 12:15 - Jesus Withdraws from the Pharisees")). The persecution faced by Paul and Barnabas foreshadows the suffering that all who follow Christ will endure ([2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godly Living")), yet it is also a testament to the fact that Christ's mission cannot be thwarted by human opposition. The apostles' unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel, even under threat, reflects the Great Commission given by Christ ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")), which empowers His followers to go into all the world, trusting in His ultimate authority and presence. Their flight to new cities ensured the continued proclamation of the "word of His grace" ([Acts 14:3](/acts/14-3 "Acts 14:3 - Paul and Barnabas Preach Boldly")), ultimately revealing Christ as the sovereign Lord who protects His servants and ensures the advancement of His kingdom despite all earthly resistance.

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 14:20

Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

Acts 14:21

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

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.

Matthew 10:23

But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.

Acts 16:1

¶ Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father [was] a Greek:

Acts 16:2

Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.

Acts 17:13

But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.