New Testament
Acts 14:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After they had preached the gospel in that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, then to Iconium, and then to Antioch,
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And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,
What Acts 14:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see the apostles actively sharing their message about hope and change in a city where many people were eager to learn. Their efforts led to a significant number of new followers who embraced this message. After establishing a community of believers, they decided to revisit the places they had previously been, including Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch. This journey back was not just about revisiting old friends; it was also about strengthening the faith of those who had just begun their spiritual journey. The apostles understood the importance of support and encouragement in the growth of these new believers. Their return signifies a commitment to nurturing relationships and ensuring that the seeds of faith they had planted would continue to flourish. This passage highlights the importance of community and mentorship in personal growth and faith development, reminding us that we are not meant to walk our journeys alone. It’s a call to invest in others and to be invested in ourselves.
How to apply Acts 14:21 to your life
Consider how you can support someone in their journey, whether it's through encouragement, sharing knowledge, or simply being present. Look for opportunities to strengthen relationships in your community. Remember, your involvement can make a significant difference in someone else's life and faith journey. Be intentional about nurturing connections with others who are growing in their beliefs or values. Keep the cycle of support going!
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Stoned and Left for Dead (Acts 14:19–28)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Acts 14:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 14:21 mean?
Acts 14:21 describes the apostles preaching the gospel in a city and making many disciples. After establishing a community of believers, they returned to previous locations to strengthen the faith of the new followers.
What is the significance of returning to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch in Acts 14:21?
The return to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch signifies the apostles' commitment to nurturing the faith of new believers. It highlights the importance of community support and mentorship in the growth of faith.
How does Acts 14:21 relate to community and mentorship?
Acts 14:21 emphasizes the role of community and mentorship by showing how the apostles returned to support and guide new disciples, reinforcing the idea that faith grows best in supportive relationships.
What can we learn from Acts 14:21 about supporting others?
Acts 14:21 teaches us the value of being present and supportive in others' journeys. It encourages us to actively invest in relationships that help nurture and strengthen faith and personal growth.
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