King James Version

What Does Acts 14:7 Mean?

Acts 14:7 in the King James Version says “And there they preached the gospel . — study this verse from Acts chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And there they preached the gospel .

Acts 14:7 · KJV


Context

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:

9

The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And there they preached the gospel—This brief verse captures the missionaries' single-minded focus. The Greek euangelizomenoi ēsan (they were gospelizing) uses imperfect tense, indicating continuous, ongoing proclamation. Neither persecution in Iconium nor unfamiliar territory in Lycaonia deterred their mission. The simplicity of Luke's statement emphasizes that gospel proclamation was their non-negotiable calling—circumstances changed, but mission remained constant. The verb euangelizō (proclaim good news) appears repeatedly in Acts as the church's core activity.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Lystra and Derbe lacked synagogues, forcing different evangelistic methods than the synagogue-to-Gentile pattern. This required more direct engagement with pagan populations, as demonstrated in the next verses with the healing at Lystra and subsequent confusion with Greek gods.

Reflection Questions

  1. What circumstances or opposition tempt you to modify or soften the gospel message itself?
  2. How does the simplicity of 'they preached the gospel' challenge complex ministry strategies that obscure core proclamation?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 3 words
κἀκεῖ1 of 3

And there

G2546

likewise in that place

ἦσαν2 of 3

they preached the gospel

G2258

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

εὐαγγελιζόμενοι3 of 3
G2097

to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel


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 14:7 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 14:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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