And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. (2) But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. (3) Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands. (4) But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles. (5) And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them, (6) They were aware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and into the region that lieth round about: (7) And there they preached the gospel.
Iconium was the chief city of Lycaonia, a province in the lesser Asia. Here the Apostles, Barnabas and Paul had fled, as Christ directed them, from the persecutions raised against them, Matthew 10:24. But here the same conflicts they had to encounter. How full of rage is Satan! He knoweth that he hath but a short time, Revelation 12:12. But, Reader! do not fail to remark, that though men, or devils, oppose the cause of Christ, that cause cannot fail. The Lord always hath, and always will, as is here said, give testimony to the word of his grace, and fail not to bring home his redeemed to his everlasting kingdom. There is nothing doubtful in the final issue of the Church of Christ. No peradventures, or uncertainties. All that the Father hath given to me (said Jesus) shall come to me, John 6:37. Jesus is pledged for their eternal safety. So that not one of them can be found wanting, when he maketh up his jewels, Malachi 3:17; John 17:2