² He was well spoken of by the brothers and sisters in Lystra and Iconium.

¹⁵ and how from childhood you have known sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

¹⁰ she must be well attested for her good works, as one who has brought up children, shown hospitality, washed the saints’ feet, helped the afflicted, and devoted herself to doing good in every way.^(A)

² Indeed, by faith^[a] our ancestors received approval.

¹¹ my persecutions, and my sufferings, the things that happened to me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them.^(A)

⁷ Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace and the snare of the devil.^(A)

⁴⁰ After leaving the prison they went to Lydia’s home, and when they had seen and encouraged the brothers and sisters there, they departed.^(A)

The Return to Antioch in Syria

²¹ After they had proclaimed the good news to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, then on to Iconium and Antioch.

⁵¹ So they shook the dust off their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium.^(A)

³ Therefore, brothers and sisters, select from among yourselves seven men of good standing, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this task,^(A)