Non-Converted
By Timothy Glover
We need to keep in mind that many rejected the preaching of Paul and others. In Acts 13, we find Paul in Antioch of Pisidia. The sermons Paul preached in the synagogue gained some interest because they asked that he speak again on the following Sabbath. Then, nearly the “whole city” came to hear him. Due to the message of Jesus rather than Moses and to the large Gentile crowd, the Jewish leaders were moved to envy. It was common to give the Jews an opportunity to obey the gospel before the Gentiles (Romans 1:16, “to the Jew first and also to the Greek”). Yet, on this occasion, Paul explains, “You have judged yourselves unworthy of everlasting life.” In other words, since they had rejected the gospel, their own conduct proved them unworthy candidates. Jesus had taught not to “cast pearls before swine”. Paul and Barnabas shook the dust off their feet as a testimony against the city of Antioch and left for Iconium.
Once again, there were a number of people who believed and others who rejected their preaching. The text reads that “part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.” The city was divided. Discovering a plot to stone them, Paul and Barnabas then departed to Lystra.
While preaching in this city, their enemies from Iconium and Antioch arrived. Imagine men from Antioch traveling 130 miles and men from Iconium traveling 40 miles to kill Paul and Barnabas. Here they stirred up the people against them and stoned Paul until they thought he was dead. They drug him out of the city where he awoke to find disciples hovering over him.
People have not changed much. We may be more civilized and less violent. Still, some accept the gospel while others reject it. Preaching the gospel still makes enemies today. Enemies of the gospel are very malicious and hateful. Yet, the gospel must be preached rather than tickling the ears of people by preaching what is popular, comfortable and easy. We need preachers today who will preach the truth. We need men like Paul who are unashamed and bold in the proclamation of the truth. We need the dedication of men and women who are willing to continue against all odds, even possible death.
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