In Acts 14, we are told that Paul and Barnabas were in Iconium, preaching in the synagogue. Their preaching was effective among Jews and Gentiles. But, the unbelieving Jews “stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren” (14:3). Many believed, but the opposition was strong and active, and they eventually had to flee for their lives.
We will always emphasize the need for defending the faith, and the capability of truth to stand and convict men of sin. But, we also realize that it is possible for the minds of men to be poisoned. And, when it happens there is often nothing that can be done.
When men call light darkness and darkness light, they can poison the minds of some. When they state with extreme conviction and flattering words a false doctrine that has appeal to the masses, they can poison the minds of some. When they make false accusations about the faithful, characterizing their faith as extreme or irrelevant, they can poison the minds of some.
Such poison minds can make life more difficult for the servant of God. Not only does such opposition confuse the innocent, it emboldens the enemies of the cross to persecute the faithful. What do we do in response?
“I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ” … “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:1a,2).
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