Acts 14:3 (KJV)

What does Acts 14:3 mean?

Acts 14:3 describes how Paul and Barnabas stayed in the city for a long time, speaking boldly about Jesus, and God confirmed their message by allowing them to perform miraculous signs and wonders. The verse highlights both their courage in sharing the message and God's active support through miracles.

Paul and Barnabas were in Iconium, facing opposition but choosing to remain and continue teaching about Jesus "boldly in the Lord." The verse shows that their message about God's grace was not just words—God gave visible proof by granting them the ability to do signs and wonders. This helped convince people that their message was true, even in a challenging environment.

The Greek behind Acts 14:3

• "Boldly" (παρρησιαζόμενοι, parrēsiazomenoi): This word means speaking openly, confidently, or without fear. It emphasizes that Paul and Barnabas were not timid or cautious, but spoke with courage despite opposition.
• "Word" (λόγος, logos) and "grace" (χάριτος, charitos): The phrase "word of his grace" points to the core message Paul and Barnabas were sharing—God's kindness and favor, not something earned, but given.
• "Signs" (σημεῖα, sēmeia) and "wonders" (τέρατα, terata): These terms refer to miraculous events that served as evidence of God's power and approval. "Signs" often point to meaning or purpose, while "wonders" stress the amazement they caused.

Why Acts 14:3 matters

• Acts 14:3 clarifies that the apostles' boldness was not reckless, but rooted in trust that God was with them and confirming their message.
• The verse shows that miracles in Acts were not random; they were specifically granted by God to support the message about Jesus and God's grace.
• This verse connects to the larger story in Acts, where opposition and hardship often led to even greater demonstrations of faith and divine support, encouraging readers that difficulty does not mean God is absent.