They simply “shook the dust off their feet against them” and went to Iconium (modern Konya), a major city in the Roman province of Galatia. (Luke 9:5; 10:11)

Firm in the Faith Despite Persecution

8. What happened as a result of successful witnessing in Iconium?

⁸ Paul and Barnabas themselves proved firm in the faith despite persecution. (14:1-7) In response to their witnessing in the synagogue in Iconium, many Jews and Greeks became believers. When unbelieving Jews incited the Gentiles against the new believers, the two laborers spoke boldly by God’s authority, and he showed his approval by empowering them to perform signs. This split the mob, some being for the Jews and others for the apostles (ones sent forth). The apostles were not cowards, but when they learned of a plot to stone them, they wisely left to preach in Lycaonia, a region of Asia Minor in southern Galatia. By being prudent, we too can often remain active in the ministry despite opposition.​—Matthew 10:23.