Preaching Among the Heathen
35
The unprejudiced Jews and Greeks took the position that the morals
and good order of the city would be improved if the apostles were
allowed to remain and work there. Upon the occasions when the
apostles were brought before the authorities, their defense was so clear
and sensible, and the statement which they gave of their doctrine was
so calm and comprehensive, that a considerable influence was exerted
in their favor. The doctrine they preached gained great publicity, and
was brought before a much larger number of unprejudiced hearers than
[54]
ever before in that place.
The Jews perceived that their efforts to thwart the work of the
apostles were unavailing, and only resulted in adding greater numbers
to the new faith. The rage of the Jews was worked up to such a pitch
on this account that they determined to compass their ends in some
manner. They stirred up the worst passions of the ignorant, noisy mob,
creating a tumult which they attributed to the efforts of the apostles.
They then prepared to make a false charge of telling force, and to
gain the help of the magistrates in carrying out their purpose. They
determined that the apostles should have no opportunity to vindicate
themselves; but that mob power should interfere, and put a stop to
their labors by stoning them to death.
Friends of the apostles, although unbelievers, warned them of
the designs of the malicious Jews, and urged them not to expose
themselves uselessly to their fury, but to escape for their lives. They
accordingly departed from Iconium in secret, and left the faithful and
opposing parties to battle for themselves, trusting God to give victory
to the doctrine of Christ. But they by no means took a final leave of
Iconium; they purposed to return, after the excitement then raging had
abated, and complete the work they had begun.
Those who observe and teach the binding claims of God’s law,
frequently receive, in a degree, similar treatment to that of the apostles
at Iconium. They often meet a bitter opposition from ministers and
people who persistently refuse the light of God, who, by misrepresen-
tation and falsehood, close every door by which the messenger of truth
[55]
might have access to the people.
The apostles next went to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia.
These were inhabited by a heathen, superstitious people; but among
them were souls that would hear and accept the doctrine of Christ. The
apostles chose to labor in those cities because they would not there