ACTS of the Apostles

Tuesday, May 31

ACTS of the Apostles

Learning How to be Daring and Dynamic

Read Acts 13:44-52

Focus Verse: Acts 13:49-50

“And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district.”

Hunger for the Word! The Gentiles could not wait to hear the Good News from Paul and Barnabas. They begged Paul and Barnabas to return to preach to them again. So, on the next Sabbath, Paul and Barnabas preached again in the synagogue where almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. The Gentiles recognized the truth of what Paul and Barnabas were preaching and were excited!

When the Jews saw the crowd, they were jealous as they believed that Paul and Barnabas should not be offering the message of salvation to Gentiles. In their jealousy they flew into a rage and began yelling at Paul and Barnabas – contradicting what they said, cursing at them, calling them blasphemers.

We should not be surprised by this persecution, because Jesus’ word says that those who believe in Him will be persecuted: (Matthew 10:16-18). So, let us not be surprised, even in this day, that when the Word of God is preached, there is opposition to it. It may be polite, or it may be violent, but when the Word of God is truly preached, there is opposition.

However, in spite of the persecution, Paul and Barnabas were not discouraged; they were “filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.” They recognized that God had worked through their preaching, causing some to believe. The fact that some people rejected the Gospel and then persecuted them let them understand that God had made the Gospel known – to those whom God meant to hear His Word and believe it had done so – and that brought them joy, as the Holy Spirit worked in them and through them. They were then ready to shake the dust off of their feet and go to the next town

Stop and reflect for a few minutes. Can you recall a time where you had the Spirit’s inexplicable joy even in the midst of a difficult circumstance? Please share in the comments section if you feel lead. Hearing your stories may help others in their faith journey.

Dear Heavenly Father,

What light, what power, what a treasure the Holy Spirit brings with it! Thank you for always providing just what we need when you lead us to speak the Truth and be your hands and feet on this earth. When we feel opposition let us not run. Let us do your will and then shake the dust off of our feet and go where you lead. In your son’s name we pray. Amen