Acts 14:4
But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.
Original Language Analysis
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πλῆθος
the multitude
G4128
πλῆθος
the multitude
Strong's:
G4128
Word #:
4 of 18
a fulness, i.e., a large number, throng, populace
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πόλεως
of the city
G4172
πόλεως
of the city
Strong's:
G4172
Word #:
6 of 18
a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μὲν
part
G3303
μὲν
part
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
9 of 18
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
σὺν
part with
G4862
σὺν
part with
Strong's:
G4862
Word #:
11 of 18
with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σὺν
part with
G4862
σὺν
part with
Strong's:
G4862
Word #:
16 of 18
with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi
Historical Context
This civic polarization in Iconium mirrored dynamics throughout Roman provincial cities where Christian preaching disrupted social cohesion. The 'division' wasn't primarily theological debate but growing social fault lines threatening civic peace, making missionaries vulnerable to expulsion.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you navigate situations where gospel truth unavoidably divides families or communities?
- What does this verse teach about measuring ministry success when division results from faithful proclamation?
Analysis & Commentary
The multitude of the city was divided—The Greek eschisthē to plēthos uses the verb 'schizō' (split, divide), from which we get 'schism.' The gospel inevitably creates division, fulfilling Jesus' prophecy that He came to bring not peace but a sword (Matthew 10:34). Some held with the Jews (the opposing party), others with the apostles. Luke's use of 'apostles' here (not just 'them') elevates Barnabas alongside Paul as commissioned messengers, though technically only Paul held formal apostolic office. This division wasn't compromise failure but gospel fruit—Christ forces decision.