Book of Acts - Chapter 14 - Verse 21

After travelling to a new city to preach the gospel and teach many people, the missionaries returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch. This act of returning to the cities they had previously visited shows their dedication to spreading the word of God and ensuring that all people have the opportunity to hear the message of salvation. By revisiting these cities, the missionaries were able to reinforce the teachings they had previously shared and provide further guidance to those who had already heard the gospel. This verse highlights the importance of ongoing support and encouragement in the journey of faith, as well as the commitment of those who share the good news with others. It serves as a reminder of the missionary spirit and the enduring impact of spreading God's message to all corners of the earth.

One theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights the importance of perseverance in spreading the gospel. The missionaries preached the gospel in various cities, facing opposition and challenges along the way. However, they did not give up but instead continued to teach and share the good news, even in the face of adversity. This can be seen as a lesson for believers today to remain steadfast in their faith and continue to share the message of salvation, regardless of the obstacles they may encounter.

Additionally, a word study of the term "preached" in this verse can provide further insight into the passage. The Greek word used here is "euaggelizo," which means to announce or proclaim good news. This emphasizes the missionaries' primary goal of spreading the good news of Jesus Christ to those they encountered. It also highlights the urgency and importance of sharing the gospel with others, as it is considered the most significant news that can be shared with humanity.

Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the perseverance and dedication required in spreading the gospel, as well as the importance of proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ to all people.