1. Encouraging the new believers (21-23)

The apostles won a large number of disciples in Derbe. Even though their lives had been threatened in Lystra, Iconium and Antioch (Pisidia), they went back to these places to encourage the new disciples. They encouraged them to have a positive attitude toward suffering, to put their hope in the kingdom of God, and to be true to the faith. They appointed elders (shepherds) and prayed for them with fasting prayer, committing them to the Lord.

2. Reporting to their prayer supporters (24-28)

After preaching in Perga, they took the most direct route back to Antioch (Syria), where they reported to the church. They reported about the great work of God through them, and about how God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. This was the beginning of a new history. The church of Jesus Christ had become international and cross-cultural.

Application: Lord, help me to see your open door, and give me faith to go through it.
One Word: An open door and the work of God