Acts 14:1-7 (KJV)
1 And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.
2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.
3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
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.
While on mission Paul and the team encountered persecution, were the religious people who did not believe stirred up other people to oppose them. Despite this opposition they stayed there for a long time preaching the gospel. There was a great division in the city, those for and those against the apostles. The LORD somehow warned them most likely through someone telling them about the plans to stone them Paul and the team decided to move on.
Therefore there is a time to stay continuing the mission work and a time to move on. The LORD will guide and help us to discern this. We will know when the welcome wears out.
Jesus gave specific instructions about this “Matthew 10:11-15 (KJV) And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence. [12] And when ye come into an house, salute it. [13] And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you. [14] And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet. [15] Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.”
Therefore let us be encouraged to be lead by the Holy Spirit, have GOD’s wisdom, and be attentive to what is happening around you to know when to stay and when to move on to another place to reach people for Jesus Christ.
“Matthew 28:17-20 (KJV) And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. [18] And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. [19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
