2 But those Jews who had not the faith, made the minds of the Gentiles bitter against the brothers. 3 So they kept there for a long time, taking heart in the Lord, who gave witness to the word of his grace by causing signs and wonders to be done by their hands. 4 But there was a division among the people of the town; some were on the side of the Jews and some on the side of the Apostles. 5 And when a violent attempt was made by the Gentiles and the Jews, with their rulers, to make an attack on them and have them stoned, 6 Having got news of it, they went in flight to the towns of Lycaonia, Lystra, and Derbe, and the country round about: 7 And went on preaching the good news there.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 14:2-7
Commentary on Acts 14:1-7
(Read Acts 14:1-7)
The apostles spake so plainly, with such evidence and proof of the Spirit, and with such power; so warmly, and with such concern for the souls of men; that those who heard them could not but say, God was with them of a truth. Yet the success was not to be reckoned to the manner of their preaching, but to the Spirit of God who used that means. Perseverance in doing good, amidst dangers and hardships, is a blessed evidence of grace. Wherever God's servants are driven, they should seek to declare the truth. When they went on in Christ's name and strength, he failed not to give testimony to the word of his grace. He has assured us it is the word of God, and that we may venture our souls upon it. The Gentiles and Jews were at enmity with one another, yet united against Christians. If the church's enemies join to destroy it, shall not its friends unite for its preservation? God has a shelter for his people in a storm; he is, and will be their Hiding-place. In times of persecution, believers may see cause to quit a spot, though they do not quit their Master's work.