Paul’s speech in Lystra was a bold declaration of the one true God, using general revelation to reach a pagan audience. His message marked a significant shift, as the Gospel moved toward the Gentiles, demonstrating that God’s goodness and presence have always been evident through creation.
The Lystrans, inhabitants of Lystra, were initially confused and resistant to the Gospel, worshiping Paul as a god and later stoning him (Acts 14:8-20). Yet, their city became home to Timothy, one of Paul’s closest disciples, proving that even the most difficult mission fields can bear lasting spiritual fruit.
Paul’s encounter with the Lycaonians in Acts 14 began with a miracle and ended with persecution. Yet from that region came Timothy, a key figure in the early Church.