Acts 14:4 Meaning and Explanation
“But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The city of Iconium splits in two: part sides with the Jews who oppose the message, and part with the apostles.
What Does Acts 14:4 Mean?
Long, bold preaching forces a decision, and Iconium cannot stay indifferent; the whole population divides over the messengers and their message. Luke here calls Barnabas and Paul 'apostles' — sent ones, commissioned for this work by the Spirit through the church at Antioch (Acts 13:2-4).
Jesus said his coming would bring division (Luke 12:51) — not because the gospel loves conflict, but because it demands a verdict. A city weighing the claims of Christ cannot remain in the middle forever, and neither can a single heart. The dividing line in Iconium ran where it always runs: not between Jew and Gentile, but between belief and unbelief.
Acts 14:4 in the Original Language
apostolos (ἀπόστολος), 'apostles' -- one sent out with a commission, a messenger bearing the sender's authority.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 14:4
What does Acts 14:4 mean?
The city of Iconium splits in two: part sides with the Jews who oppose the message, and part with the apostles.