King James Bible
"They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:"
Paul and Barnabas became aware of a plot to stone them in Iconium and chose strategic withdrawal over confrontation. This pattern of persecution followed by relocation characterized Paul's missionary journeys, demonstrating wisdom in preserving their lives for continued ministry. These cities lay about 20-60 miles south of Iconium in the Roman province of Galatia, representing a shift to a different ethnic region with its own dialect. The missionaries moved from a hostile Jewish-Greek environment to predominantly Gentile territory where they might find fresh opportunities. Beyond the urban centers, Paul and Barnabas evangelized the surrounding rural areas, expanding their reach throughout the Lycaonian countryside. This comprehensive approach ensured the gospel spread not just in major cities but throughout the entire region.