- Home
- Bible
- Acts
- Chapter 14
- Verse 22
Verse
Context
Strengthening the Disciples
21They preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch,22strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Confirming the souls of the disciples - The word disciple signifies literally a scholar. The Church of Christ was a school, in which Christ himself was chief Master; and his apostles subordinate teachers. All the converts were disciples or scholars, who came to this school to be instructed in the knowledge of themselves and of their God: of their duty to Him, to the Church, to society, and to themselves. After having been initiated in the principles of the heavenly doctrine, they needed line upon line, and precept upon precept, in order that they might be confirmed and established in the truth. Though it was a great and important thing to have their heads, their understanding, properly informed, yet, if the heart was not disciplined, information in the understanding would be of little avail; therefore they confirmed the Souls of the disciples. As there must be some particular standard of truth, to which they might continually resort, that their faith might stand in the power of God, it was necessary that they should have such a system of doctrine as they knew came from God. These doctrines were those which contained all the essential principles of Christianity, and this was called The Faith; and, as they must have sound principles, in order that they might have righteous practices, so it was necessary that they should continue in that faith, that it might produce that obedience, without which even faith itself, however excellent, must be useless and dead. Again, as the spirit of the world would be ever opposed to the spirit of Christ, so they must make up their minds to expect persecution and tribulation in various forms, and therefore had need of confirmed souls and strong faith, that, when trials came, they might meet them with becoming fortitude, and stand unmoved in the cloudy and dark day. And as the mind must faint under trouble that sees no prospect of its termination, and no conviction of its use, it was necessary that they should keep in view the kingdom of God, of which they were subjects, and to which, through their adoption into the heavenly family, they had a Divine right. Hence, from the apostles teaching, they not only learned that they should meet with tribulation, much tribulation, but, for their encouragement, they were also informed that these were the very means which God would use to bring them into his own kingdom; so that, if they had tribulation in the way, they had a heaven of eternal glory as the end to which they were continually to direct their views.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Confirming the souls of the disciples,.... Not wicked men in their wickedness, nor self-righteous persons in an opinion of their own righteousness, as sufficient for justification, both being contrary to the nature and tendency of the ministry of the word; the Gospel being a doctrine according to godliness, and a revelation of the righteousness of Christ; but the disciples and followers of Jesus, whom they had already made in those places, these they confirmed in the doctrines of the Gospel, and fortified them against the contradictions and blasphemies of the Jews, and the reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions they met with, by which they might be staggered: they did not confirm the bodies of these disciples, and the health of them, which is the business of the physician to confirm; nor their estates and civil property, to secure and defend which belongs to the civil magistrate; but their souls, their more noble and valuable part, their hearts, which are apt to be unstable; the frames of their hearts, which are precarious, and so as not to be too much depressed when disagreeable, or be too much elated when agreeable, placing too much trust and confidence in them; and also the graces of the Spirit in their hearts, as to act and exercise, as faith, hope, and love; and likewise their judgments and understandings in the truths of the Gospel, in what relates to the love of God; the covenant of grace, the person of Christ, and their interest in them: and exhorting them to continue in the faith: in the exercise of the grace of faith, and in the doctrine of faith, and in the profession of both, whatever they might meet with on the account thereof, and which they were to expect: and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God either into a Gospel church state, which is sometimes so called, there being much trouble often attending an entrance into it, both from within, from the corruption and unbelief of the heart, and from without, from the temptations of Satan, and from the revilings and insults of men, and even from friends and relations; or into the heavenly glory, the way to that lying through many tribulations; and which, though a rough, is a right way: so it "must" be, there is a necessity of it, partly on account of the decrees of God, who has appointed afflictions for his people, and them to afflictions; and partly on account of the predictions of Christ, who foretold his disciples, that in the world they should have tribulation; as also, that there might be a conformity to him, that as he the head must, and did suffer many things, and enter into his glory, so must they his members: as well as likewise for the trial and exercise of the several graces of the Spirit, and to make the saints meet for heaven, and to make that the sweeter to them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:22-23 The apostles were diligent in following up with those who had made a Christian profession of faith. These new disciples needed to be nurtured, supported, and encouraged (15:32, 41; 16:40; 18:23; see 1 Thes 3:2; 4:18; 5:14). • Paul and Barnabas . . . appointed elders: See “Church Leaders” Theme Note.
Strengthening the Disciples
21They preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch,22strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Forging the Vessel of Recovery) 2- the New Cruse
By B.H. Clendennen5.0K1:07:25RecoveryISA 61:1MAT 6:33LUK 4:21JHN 14:6JHN 15:5ACT 4:12ACT 14:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having life in Christ. He refers to John 1-4, which states that in Jesus was life, and this life was for all men. The preacher explains that wherever Jesus went, his life exposed the devil and caused demons to cry out. He then discusses the need for a specially prepared vessel, calling out a remnant who are dissatisfied with the superficiality of religion. The preacher highlights that the world and tradition have infiltrated the church, hindering the true power of Christ. He emphasizes that sanctification must point to a person, Jesus Christ, and that the missing ingredient in today's religion is life.
Against the Flow
By Jim Cymbala4.5K26:41Following ChristDAN 3:25MAT 10:28ACT 7:59ACT 12:1ACT 14:22JAS 1:8REV 2:10In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of preaching in a public setting and facing disdain and mockery when he mentioned God and Jesus. He draws a parallel to the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who were thrown into the fire but were miraculously protected by God. The speaker emphasizes that not everyone who stands for Jesus will be delivered from suffering, as seen in the examples of Stephen and James who were martyred. However, he encourages believers to remain steadfast and not compromise their faith, reminding them that when they suffer for Christ, there will be a visitation of God in their lives.
Persecution, Affliction, and Tribulation
By Keith Daniel3.6K1:28:15PersecutionDAN 12:1MAT 24:21ACT 14:22ACT 16:33ROM 12:12In this sermon, the speaker expresses gratitude for the opportunity to travel and preach across America. He acknowledges the support and organization of Denny, Jackie, Hannah, and Esther. The speaker emphasizes the importance of trust and love from the audience and prays for their concentration during the sermon. He also mentions his disapproval of churches that sing modern hymns. The sermon references Bible verses from 1 Peter and Job, highlighting the theme of suffering and the need to resist the devil. The speaker shares stories of individuals who have lost everything but still maintained their faith in God.
(Come Up Higher) Choosing the Heavenly Over the Earthly
By Zac Poonen2.4K57:18MAT 10:41ACT 14:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not letting money become our master. He compares money to a servant and highlights that whether we are rich or poor, it is crucial to have control over our finances. The speaker also discusses how the devil uses advertisements and temptations to make us believe that money is essential for happiness. However, the speaker encourages listeners to trust in God and not let money dictate their emotions or actions. Ultimately, the message emphasizes the need to make money our servant and not our master.
Memory - the Handmaid of Hope
By C.H. Spurgeon2.3K52:10PSA 69:33ISA 53:5JHN 14:16ACT 14:22ROM 5:51TI 1:15REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering the promises of God in difficult times. He shares a story of a young man who had to prove his rightful inheritance in court but lacked sufficient evidence. However, he discovers an old parchment in his father's chest that provides the necessary proof. The preacher then reminds the audience that there is a promise in the Bible that perfectly applies to their situation. He declares that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners, which is the best news ever heard. The sermon concludes by urging the listeners to recognize their need for salvation and to trust in Christ.
God's School of Faith
By Jim Cymbala2.2K37:14FaithGEN 45:5JOS 24:1PSA 23:3JER 37:15MAT 6:33JHN 1:11ACT 14:22In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a sentence from the book of Joshua that states, "His thoughts are not our thoughts." The speaker suggests that this sentence holds the key to understanding the challenges and experiences we face in life. They explain that Joshua is recalling the history of the chosen people of God and how they had to trust in God's plan even in difficult times. The speaker emphasizes the importance of developing faith through adversity and warns against losing faith when faced with challenges.
An Encouragement to Pray for the Persecuted Church
By K.P. Yohannan1.8K25:02Persecuted ChurchJHN 16:33ACT 14:22PHP 1:29In this video, Dr. K.P. Johannon, the founder and president of Gospel for Asia, shares stories of persecution faced by Christians in unreached mission fields. He recounts the tragic incidents of a missionary witnessing the poisoning of a young believer and the acid attack on a girl who refused to deny her faith. Dr. Johannon emphasizes the suffering, starvation, and physical abuse experienced by thousands of believers in South Asia. He also reminds viewers of Jesus' words in Matthew 10, where he warned his followers about the persecution they would face for their faith.
Counterfeit Conversion (4 of 6)
By Winkie Pratney1.8K57:03MAT 5:11MAT 6:33ACT 14:22ROM 5:3ROM 8:352CO 7:4REV 7:14In this sermon, the speaker talks about a morning prayer meeting where many high school students gathered to pray. He mentions that there was a spiritual awakening in the area. The speaker then discusses the importance of addressing both rights and wrongs when counseling people and leading them to the Lord. He uses the analogy of plowing rocky ground to emphasize the need to dig deep and remove any obstacles. The sermon concludes with a prayer for wisdom and a desire to walk in God's ways.
How God Prepares Us (Part 9)
By Jim Cymbala1.8K41:06PreparationACT 4:32ACT 9:26ACT 11:23ACT 11:29ACT 14:22ROM 12:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking action and making sacrifices for others. He uses the example of Barnabas, who saw a need in the early church and sold his own property to help the poor. The preacher highlights the unity and selflessness of the early church, where believers shared everything they had and had one heart and mind. He encourages the listeners to believe in and support others, as they may encounter someone in need of someone to believe in them.
The Spies
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K46:07JOS 14:8MAT 5:16ACT 14:22ROM 12:2PHP 4:8TIT 2:111PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of Canaan as a representation of religion. He argues that Canaan was never meant to symbolize heaven, as there are no negative elements like Canaanites or giants in heaven. The speaker emphasizes that the majority of people do not personally explore or experience religion, but instead rely on the reports and actions of others. He distinguishes between those who bring an evil report of religion, characterized by a dull and heavy spirit, and those who bring a good report, exemplified by Caleb and Joshua. The speaker concludes by urging Christians to act like Caleb and Joshua and bring a positive report of their faith through their daily lives.
The Sufferings of the Early Christians
By Willie Mullan1.5K1:14:39MartyrdomMAT 5:11ACT 14:22ROM 8:182CO 11:23JAS 1:21PE 4:121PE 5:10In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the sufferings and trials that the apostle Paul endured for the sake of spreading the word of God. He mentions how Paul was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, and faced various dangers and hardships. The speaker contrasts Paul's experiences with the comfortable lives that many Christians lead today, emphasizing the need to learn from Paul's example and be prepared to face trials and rejoice in them. He also references biblical passages, such as 1 Peter 4:12-13 and John 14, to encourage believers to trust in God and look forward to the glory that awaits them.
Christ, the Demander
By Rolfe Barnard1.2K49:45SovereigntyMAT 24:30LUK 9:62JHN 20:31ACT 14:22ROM 10:9ROM 10:13PHP 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of total commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. He uses the analogy of a rebellion in a sovereign's kingdom to illustrate the spiritual battle between the sons of the kingdom and the sons of darkness. The preacher urges the listeners to throw down their arms of rebellion and bow at the feet of the Master. He highlights the longsuffering and grace of God, who desires all men to come to repentance and receive pardon through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.
The Challenge of Saul's Conversion
By George Verwer1.0K46:54SaulACT 7:54ACT 14:22HEB 11:32In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of studying a particular passage in the Bible and being overwhelmed with thoughts and challenges that came out of it. The passage he refers to is about Saul's encounter with a bright light on the road to Damascus, which leaves him blind. Saul is then led by others into Damascus, where he spends three days without eating or drinking. The speaker emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel and encourages the audience to consider their own personal stories of coming to know the Lord. He also highlights the significance of Saul's conversion, which is mentioned multiple times in the Acts of the Apostles and other epistles.
Suffering and the Kingdom of God
By Zac Poonen95849:05MAT 3:2LUK 24:25ACT 1:3ACT 14:22ROM 14:17PHP 1:29PHP 3:102TH 1:41PE 2:181PE 4:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the concept of the Kingdom of God as highlighted in the New Testament. It delves into the significance of suffering, both in the flesh and externally, as a means to enter God's Kingdom. The message challenges believers to endure tribulations, follow the example of Jesus in suffering unjustly, and seek righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit as the essence of the Kingdom of God.
Let the Nations Be Glad - Part 2
By John Piper9121:19:16MAT 5:11JHN 15:20ACT 14:222CO 12:91PE 4:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of missions, highlighting the need for believers to embrace suffering and sacrifice for the sake of spreading the gospel to unreached peoples. It underscores the biblical truth that suffering is a normal part of the Christian life, as Jesus and the apostles endured persecution. The sermon also stresses the significance of prayer in empowering the work of missions, connecting prayer to warfare and the refining of faith. Ultimately, the goal is to bring glory to God through joyful endurance and faithful service.
Progress of Redemption #12
By David Shirley85855:42RedemptionGEN 1:1MAT 6:33JHN 10:29ACT 11:23ACT 14:22ROM 8:35REV 21:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the inseparable connection between the natural and spiritual realms. The central theme is the power and purpose of Jesus Christ, with the key message being that everyone will see his return. The sermon highlights the hope and anticipation of Christ's second coming as the ultimate answer for the world. It also emphasizes the concept of overcoming, prevailing, conquering, and victory, which are all interconnected and prevalent throughout the book of Revelation. The sermon concludes by discussing the doctrine of judgment and the ultimate restoration of all things in a new heaven and earth.
Reality & Paul 3
By George Verwer84556:39RealityMAT 6:33ACT 8:1ACT 14:19ACT 14:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding God's grace and how it pleases Him. He encourages believers to come to God with all their imperfections, knowing that He understands and loves them. The sermon then shifts to discussing the experiences of the Apostle Paul in the Book of Acts, highlighting his encounters with spiritual warfare and persecution. The preacher also mentions his own personal experience of being arrested in the Soviet Union for distributing the Word of God. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the command to go into all the world and make disciples, and the impact that spiritual revolutionaries like Paul can have in turning the world upside down.
Acts 14_pt1
By Bill Gallatin8101:08:36ExpositionalMAT 10:8ACT 3:6ACT 14:3ACT 14:15ACT 14:17ACT 14:221CO 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the message of grace and redemption. He highlights that God loves His people and desires to show Himself faithful. The preacher also discusses how God grants signs and wonders to be done by His people's hands. He cautions against idolizing preachers or church leaders, emphasizing that the focus should always be on Jesus Christ. The sermon encourages listeners to open their hearts to Jesus and allow Him to transform their lives.
Two Roads Two Destinies 10 Ireland st.chapel
By Worth Ellis66749:43ACT 14:22HEB 9:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of sin and its impact on our lives. He emphasizes the importance of believing in and obeying Jesus Christ. The preacher also mentions the death of Jesus and how it grants eternal life to those who believe in Him. He refers to a passage in the Bible where Jesus talks about the necessity of dying in order to bear fruit. The sermon concludes with a description of heaven as a place free from pain, sorrow, and pride.
Paul's First Missionary Journey
By Steve Gallagher65057:35ACT 13:47ACT 14:221CO 3:6GAL 6:9PHP 1:61TH 5:242TI 4:5This sermon reflects on Paul's missionary journey, highlighting the challenges faced, the response to the gospel message, and the importance of staying faithful to God's work despite opposition and discouragement. It emphasizes the reality that not everyone will respond positively to the gospel, but God will bring forth fruit in His timing and way, even if it may not be outwardly huge. The story of Timothy's conversion and the impact of the gospel message on different individuals are used as examples to encourage perseverance in ministry.
International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan36313:30ChristMAT 10:16JHN 16:33ACT 14:222CO 11:23PHP 1:29In this sermon, K.P. Yohannan discusses the persecution faced by Christians around the world. He shares personal experiences of believers being rejected by their own families and communities. Yohannan emphasizes that suffering for the sake of Christ is a privilege and a part of the normal Christian life. He highlights the story of Christians in Orissa whose homes were destroyed, and shares the testimony of a missionary who spent eight years in prison for leading people to Christ. Yohannan calls for believers to not only pray for the persecuted church, but also to be willing to enter into their suffering and support them.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 145
By Don Courville35025:59Radio ShowACT 14:22PHP 2:141TH 3:21PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of truly desiring Jesus Christ in our lives. He warns against playing games with God and challenges listeners to examine their hearts and determine if Jesus is truly all they want. The preacher shares personal experiences of facing opposition and attacks from Satan, but also recognizes that these trials are evidence of God making headway in their lives. He quotes from 1 Thessalonians 3:3 to remind listeners of the potential for their labor in the Lord to be in vain if they succumb to temptation. The preacher concludes by highlighting the need for believers to be identified with Jesus Christ and to endure suffering and crushing in order to bring out the beautiful fragrance of Jesus in their lives.
Affliction and Glory
By A.W. Pink1AfflictionEternal GloryJOB 5:7ACT 14:22ROM 8:182CO 4:17JAS 1:2A.W. Pink emphasizes the contrast between our present afflictions and the eternal glory that awaits believers, as expressed in 2 Corinthians 4:17. He encourages Christians not to be overwhelmed by trials, reminding them that these light and momentary troubles serve a greater purpose in shaping their character and faith. Pink explains that while afflictions are a common part of life, they are light in comparison to the weight of glory that God has prepared for us. He urges believers to view their suffering through the lens of eternity, recognizing that the hardships of this life are temporary and ultimately lead to a greater appreciation of divine glory. The sermon calls for faith to help us endure present trials while anticipating the joy of eternal life with God.
Encouraging Others
By Zac Poonen1PSA 34:8PRO 16:24MAT 8:10LUK 7:47LUK 22:28ACT 14:221CO 1:41CO 1:10EPH 4:29Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of strengthening others through a ministry of encouragement, following the examples of Paul, Barnabas, and Jesus who appreciated and praised individuals for their faith, love, and devotion. By focusing on the positive aspects of others, we can cultivate a habit of noticing and appreciating their good qualities, ultimately fostering better human relationships and unity in the body of Christ.
Comfort for Mourners
By Henry Law1ISA 33:24ISA 57:1MAT 11:28ACT 14:222CO 5:1HEB 12:231JN 3:2REV 3:12REV 14:13REV 21:4Henry Law preaches about the profound comfort and joy that believers can find in the midst of sorrow and loss, emphasizing the assurance of eternal rest and peace in the presence of God. He highlights the scriptural promises of being reunited with loved ones in heaven, free from pain, sickness, and the troubles of this world. The sermon encourages gratitude for the hope of resurrection and the ultimate perfection awaiting believers in the glorious presence of the Triune God.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Confirming the souls of the disciples - The word disciple signifies literally a scholar. The Church of Christ was a school, in which Christ himself was chief Master; and his apostles subordinate teachers. All the converts were disciples or scholars, who came to this school to be instructed in the knowledge of themselves and of their God: of their duty to Him, to the Church, to society, and to themselves. After having been initiated in the principles of the heavenly doctrine, they needed line upon line, and precept upon precept, in order that they might be confirmed and established in the truth. Though it was a great and important thing to have their heads, their understanding, properly informed, yet, if the heart was not disciplined, information in the understanding would be of little avail; therefore they confirmed the Souls of the disciples. As there must be some particular standard of truth, to which they might continually resort, that their faith might stand in the power of God, it was necessary that they should have such a system of doctrine as they knew came from God. These doctrines were those which contained all the essential principles of Christianity, and this was called The Faith; and, as they must have sound principles, in order that they might have righteous practices, so it was necessary that they should continue in that faith, that it might produce that obedience, without which even faith itself, however excellent, must be useless and dead. Again, as the spirit of the world would be ever opposed to the spirit of Christ, so they must make up their minds to expect persecution and tribulation in various forms, and therefore had need of confirmed souls and strong faith, that, when trials came, they might meet them with becoming fortitude, and stand unmoved in the cloudy and dark day. And as the mind must faint under trouble that sees no prospect of its termination, and no conviction of its use, it was necessary that they should keep in view the kingdom of God, of which they were subjects, and to which, through their adoption into the heavenly family, they had a Divine right. Hence, from the apostles teaching, they not only learned that they should meet with tribulation, much tribulation, but, for their encouragement, they were also informed that these were the very means which God would use to bring them into his own kingdom; so that, if they had tribulation in the way, they had a heaven of eternal glory as the end to which they were continually to direct their views.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Confirming the souls of the disciples,.... Not wicked men in their wickedness, nor self-righteous persons in an opinion of their own righteousness, as sufficient for justification, both being contrary to the nature and tendency of the ministry of the word; the Gospel being a doctrine according to godliness, and a revelation of the righteousness of Christ; but the disciples and followers of Jesus, whom they had already made in those places, these they confirmed in the doctrines of the Gospel, and fortified them against the contradictions and blasphemies of the Jews, and the reproaches, afflictions, and persecutions they met with, by which they might be staggered: they did not confirm the bodies of these disciples, and the health of them, which is the business of the physician to confirm; nor their estates and civil property, to secure and defend which belongs to the civil magistrate; but their souls, their more noble and valuable part, their hearts, which are apt to be unstable; the frames of their hearts, which are precarious, and so as not to be too much depressed when disagreeable, or be too much elated when agreeable, placing too much trust and confidence in them; and also the graces of the Spirit in their hearts, as to act and exercise, as faith, hope, and love; and likewise their judgments and understandings in the truths of the Gospel, in what relates to the love of God; the covenant of grace, the person of Christ, and their interest in them: and exhorting them to continue in the faith: in the exercise of the grace of faith, and in the doctrine of faith, and in the profession of both, whatever they might meet with on the account thereof, and which they were to expect: and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God either into a Gospel church state, which is sometimes so called, there being much trouble often attending an entrance into it, both from within, from the corruption and unbelief of the heart, and from without, from the temptations of Satan, and from the revilings and insults of men, and even from friends and relations; or into the heavenly glory, the way to that lying through many tribulations; and which, though a rough, is a right way: so it "must" be, there is a necessity of it, partly on account of the decrees of God, who has appointed afflictions for his people, and them to afflictions; and partly on account of the predictions of Christ, who foretold his disciples, that in the world they should have tribulation; as also, that there might be a conformity to him, that as he the head must, and did suffer many things, and enter into his glory, so must they his members: as well as likewise for the trial and exercise of the several graces of the Spirit, and to make the saints meet for heaven, and to make that the sweeter to them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:22-23 The apostles were diligent in following up with those who had made a Christian profession of faith. These new disciples needed to be nurtured, supported, and encouraged (15:32, 41; 16:40; 18:23; see 1 Thes 3:2; 4:18; 5:14). • Paul and Barnabas . . . appointed elders: See “Church Leaders” Theme Note.