Book of Acts - Chapter 13 - Verse 51

When the disciples encountered rejection or resistance in a town, they would symbolically shake off the dust of their feet against them before moving on to the next town. This action was meant to show that they had done all they could to share the message of Jesus with the people in that town, and any rejection or persecution they faced was not on them, but on the people who refused to listen. By shaking off the dust of their feet, the disciples were essentially saying that they were leaving the town and its people to their own devices, and moving on to where they may be received more favorably. In this particular instance, the disciples shook off the dust of their feet against the people in a town called Iconium, indicating that they were moving on from there and leaving behind any negativity or hostility they encountered. This action served as a symbolic gesture of closure, allowing the disciples to continue their mission without being weighed down by past rejection.

In the verse where it says "But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium", the act of shaking off the dust of one's feet had significant theological implications in ancient Jewish culture. This action symbolized a gesture of rejection and judgment against those who rejected the message of the Gospel. It served as a visual demonstration of severing ties with those who refused to accept the truth of God's word. By shaking the dust off their feet, the disciples were essentially saying that they had fulfilled their duty of proclaiming the Good News, and now the responsibility lay with the individuals who had rejected it. The journey to Iconium after this act signified their commitment to continue spreading the message of salvation despite encountering resistance. This verse highlights the importance of boldly standing for the truth and not being discouraged by rejection, but instead moving forward in faith.