In this moment of their missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas find themselves in a situation where the people of Lystra mistake them for gods after witnessing a miracle. The apostles are quick to reject this adulation, reminding the crowd of their shared humanity. They seize this opportunity to share the core of their message: the good news of the living God. This God is not an idol made by human hands but the Creator of the universe, encompassing the heavens, the earth, the sea, and all within them.
This encounter serves as a powerful reminder of the futility of idolatry. Paul and Barnabas urge the people to turn away from "worthless things"—a reference to idols and false gods—and to embrace the living God. Their message is one of transformation, inviting people to leave behind empty rituals and to engage in a genuine relationship with the Creator. This passage emphasizes the humility and dedication of Paul and Barnabas, who direct all glory and honor to God, rather than accepting it for themselves. It also reflects the universal Christian call to recognize and worship the one true God, who is the source of all life and creation.
