2.  Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary defines a goad as “(1a) something that pricks like a goad: thorn; (1b) something that urges or stimulates into action: spur; (2) a pointed rod used to urge on an animal.”  The Greek word kentron, which is translated “goad” or “sting,” occurs 4x in the NT (Acts 26:14; 1 Cor. 15:55, 56; Rev 9:10).

3.  Thomas defines kentron as from kenteō [to prick], meaning “a sharp point.”  BDAG say that kentron, which is derived from kenteō, i.e., “prick, spur on,” used generally of a “sharp point,” specifically identified as:  “the sting of an animal…” or  “a pointed stick that serves the same purpose as a whip, a goad.”

4. 1. a sting, as that of bees, scorpions, locusts. Since animals wound by their sting and even cause death, Paul attributes death, personified as a sting, i.e. a deadly weapon; 2. an iron goad, for urging on oxen, horses and other beasts of burden; hence the proverb, “to kick against the goad”, i.e. to offer vain and perilous or ruinous resistance.”

7.  Lured by the promise of pleasure, many become addicted to alcohol; however, at the last it bites like a serpent and stings like a viper (Prov. 23:29-35).  So it is with sin in general; it takes us further than we want to go, costing us more than we wanted to pay (Heb. 3:12-13).

8.  God has graciously made provision for reconciliation and forgiveness (2 Cor. 5:18- 21).  If we respond in obedience, the sting of sin and death are removed (1 Cor. 15:50-58; cf. Isaiah 25:6-8).  However, those who persist in rebellion forfeit any hope of pardon or deliverance (Hos. 13:12-16).

9.  In his rebellion against God’s plan and purpose, Saul was only hurting himself; thankfully, he responded in obedience to the Lord’s invitation (Acts 26:9-20).  Many feel the sting of divine judgments, but persist in their rebellion (Rev. 9:1-21).  Will we be stubbornly foolish, or will we wisely accept the chastening of the Lord (Heb. 12:4-11; 1 Tim. 1:12-17)?