In these passages is the account of Paul healing a man in Lystra who was lame in his feet from birth. When the people witnessed this, they proclaimed that Paul and Barnabas were the Greek gods, Zeus and Hermes, who had come down to them. Paul and Barnabas responded to this by tearing their robes and telling the people not to worship them, as they were just men and not gods.
Jews from Antioch and Iconium were in the crowd and won over the people, refuting the things preached by Paul. The people then attacked Paul, stoning him and dragging him outside the city, supposing him to be dead. However, Paul woke from apparent death. He and Barnabas then left for Derbe and continued preaching the Gospel.
This incident reveals Paul’s tenacity and personal dedication to spreading God’s Word. Paul suffered greatly and was an example to others who believed. Paul encouraged them to continue in the Faith and said, “Through many tribulations we must enter the Kingdom of God.”
Indeed, the pathway to Heaven is not easy. We must persevere in our Faith and be willing to suffer if necessary. However, the reward is well worth the momentary discomfort.
