King James Version

What Does Acts 14:6 Mean?

Acts 14:6 in the King James Version says “They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: — study this verse from Acts chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:

Acts 14:6 · KJV


Context

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 ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:

7

And there they preached the gospel .

8

And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
They were ware of it, and fled—The apostles' strategic retreat demonstrates wisdom, not cowardice. The Greek synidontes (being aware) suggests advance warning, possibly from converts. Jesus had instructed His disciples to flee persecution when possible (Matthew 10:23). Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia—fleeing to these less sophisticated cities provided temporary safety but also new mission fields. The phrase and unto the region that lieth round about shows continued evangelistic purpose during retreat. Flight wasn't abandonment but tactical repositioning for continued ministry.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Lystra (18 miles south) and Derbe (60 miles southeast) were in the Lycaonian ethnos, distinct from Phrygian Iconium. These cities had smaller Jewish populations, reducing initial opposition risk. Lystra would prove receptive (Timothy's hometown, Acts 16:1), illustrating how persecution opened new gospel doors.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you discern when 'standing firm' crosses into presumption versus when withdrawal is wise stewardship?
  2. What opportunities has God opened for you through forced changes in plans or location?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
συνιδόντες1 of 13

They were ware

G4894

to see completely; used (like its primary) only in two past tenses, respectively meaning to understand or become aware, and to be conscious or (clande

κατέφυγον2 of 13

of it and fled

G2703

to flee down (away)

εἰς3 of 13

unto

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὰς4 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πόλεις5 of 13

cities

G4172

a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)

τῆς6 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Λυκαονίας7 of 13

of Lycaonia

G3071

lycaonia, a region of asia minor

Λύστραν8 of 13

Lystra

G3082

lystra, a place in asia minor

καὶ9 of 13

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

Δέρβην10 of 13

Derbe

G1191

derbe, a place in asia minor

καὶ11 of 13

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τὴν12 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

περίχωρον13 of 13

unto the region that lieth round about

G4066

around the region, i.e., circumjacent (as noun, with g1093 implied vicinity)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Acts 14:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Acts 14:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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