Lystra: A town of Lycaonia, in Asia Minor, in a wild district and among a rude
population. Here Paul preached the gospel after he had been driven by
persecution from Iconium
(Acts 14:2-7) Here also he healed a lame man
(Acts 14:8) and thus so impressed the ignorant and superstitious people
that they took him for Mercury, because he was the "chief speaker,"
and his companion Barnabas for Jupiter, probably in consequence of
his stately, venerable appearance; and were proceeding to offer
sacrifices to them
(Acts 14:13) when Paul earnestly addressed them
and turned their attention to the true source of all blessings. But
soon after, through the influence of the Jews from Antioch in Pisidia
and Iconium, they stoned Paul and left him for dead
(Acts 14:19) On
recovering, Paul left for Derbe; but soon returned again, through
Lystra, encouraging the disciples there to steadfastness. He in all
likelihood visited this city again on his third missionary tour
(Acts 18:23) Timothy, who was probably born here
(2 Timothy 3:10,11) was
no doubt one of those who were on this occasion witnesses of Paul's
persecution and his courage in Lystra.
