Confirming the souls

Act 14:19  But there came Jews thither from Antioch and Iconium: and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul, and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead.
Act 14:20  But as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and entered into the city: and on the morrow he went forth with Barnabas to Derbe.
Act 14:21  And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, and to Iconium, and to Antioch,
Act 14:22  confirming the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God.

Paul was nearly stoned to death and yet he got up the next day and continued to witness for Jesus. He had many converts, confirming their souls. What is meant by confirming their souls? He established them, strengthened them. It is important to confirm new believers, to establish them in the faith, to prove to them, to make disciples of them. This step of confirmation should occur immediately after they receive Jesus by faith. Many are left alone as a newborn babe, not knowing what to do. Babes need nurturing, they need to be supported by the strong people of faith. These that Paul confirmed were exhorted to continue in the faith. Paul was an example to them. He did not promise them comfort, prosperity and ease, but he showed them that in spite of hardships and persecution, that God with you will give you the strength and power to continue. We need this example that Paul gives to us. Keep going, Christ in you has overcome the world and through many tribulations we will enter into the kingdom of God; we will be with Jesus and experience his love and fellowship, forever.

Mar 16:20  And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word by the signs that followed. Amen. 

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