In Paul’s address we have distinct anticipations of the early chapters of the Epistle to the Romans. How fickle a mob is! Now, enthusiastic loyalty; again, disappointment and rejection. Today, “*Hosanna’’; tomorrow, ‘‘Crucify.’’ ‘‘Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils.’’

It has been supposed by some that the trance of 2 Cor. 12 took place at the time of Paul’s stoning in Lystra. It must have been sorrow indeed to awaken from such a vision to the suffering of ‘his battered body. But that scene, no doubt, gave him the love and devotion of the young Timothy and his mother and

grandmother. See Acts 16:1, 2. On Paul’s next visit to Lystra, this son, whom he had begotten in the sore anguish of that hour, was to become his devoted attendant.

In spite of the treatment Paul had received, he returned to the city, v. 21. Back to the stones! Naught could stay his ardent spirit, if only disciples were to be won or confirmed in their faith for the Master, v. 22. Everywhere these intrepid missionaries found the blood-stained track of the Cross, but they filled up to the brim the measure of their opportunity. This will be possible for us all only when we are such that God can co-operate with us as our fellow-worker and open the door.