and fled
The decision to flee, as indicated by the Greek word "κατέφυγον" (katephygan), meaning to escape or seek refuge, underscores the balance between faith and wisdom. While Paul and Barnabas were bold in their proclamation of the Gospel, they also exercised prudence. This action reflects Jesus' instruction in Matthew 10:23, where He advises His disciples to flee to another city when persecuted. It serves as a reminder that retreating in the face of danger is not a lack of faith but a strategic move to preserve life for continued ministry.

to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe
The mention of "Lycaonian cities" provides a geographical and cultural context. Lycaonia was a region in the central part of Asia Minor, known for its distinct language and customs. Lystra and Derbe were cities within this region. Archaeological findings, such as inscriptions and ancient road systems, confirm the historical existence of these cities. This movement to a new region signifies the spread of the Gospel beyond familiar territories, fulfilling the Great Commission to take the message to the ends of the earth.

and to the surrounding region
This phrase indicates that the mission of Paul and Barnabas extended beyond just the cities of Lystra and Derbe. The Greek word "περίχωρον" (perichoron) suggests a broader area, emphasizing the expansive nature of their missionary work. It reflects the early church's commitment to evangelism and the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. Historically, this expansion laid the groundwork for the establishment of Christian communities that would endure and grow despite persecution.

"Where men once dwelt a marshy lake is seen,

And coots and bitterns haunt the waters green."

The very name Lycaonia, interpreted traditionally as Wolf-land (the local legend derived it from Lycaon, who had been transformed into a wolf), represented but too faithfully the character of the inhabitants. The travellers were also losing the protection which a Roman citizen might claim in a Roman province, Lycaonia, which had been annexed in A.D. 17 to the Roman province of Galatia, having been assigned by Caligula to Antiochus, King of Commagene. So wild a country was hardly likely to attract Jewish settlers; and there is no trace in St. Luke's narrative of the existence of a synagogue in either of the two cities. For the first time, so far as we know, St. Paul had to begin his work by preaching to the heathen. Even the child of a devout Jewish mother had grown up to manhood uncircumcised (see Note on Acts 16:3). Of the two towns named, Lystra was about forty miles to the south-east of Iconium, Derbe about twenty miles further to the east. The former, which lies to the north of a lofty conical mountain, the Kara-dagh (=Black Mountain) is now known as Bin-bir-Kilisseh, i.e., "the thousand and one churches," from the ruins that abound there. The addition of "the region that lieth round about" suggests the thought that the cities were not large enough to supply a sufficient field of action. The work in the country villages must obviously--even more than in the cities--have been entirely among the Gentiles. Among the converts of this region, and probably of this time, we may note the names of Timotheus of Lystra (see Note on Acts 16:1), and Gaius, or Caius, of Derbe (Acts 20:4). . . .