ACTS of the Apostles, Part 2

Tuesday, September 20

ACTS of the Apostles, Part 2

Learning How to be Daring and Dynamic

Read Acts 22: 22-30

Focus Verse: Acts 22:22-23

Up to this word they listened to (Paul). Then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth! For he should not be allowed to live.” And as they were shouting and throwing off their cloaks and flinging dust into the air, the tribune ordered him to be brought into the barracks, saying that he should be examined by flogging, to find out why they were shouting against him like this.

Today we hear how Paul continued to be DARING and never gave up speaking the Truth, even in the midst of persecution. He was determined to show the Jews that he was a new person, and that Jesus was the Messiah and He was alive. As we read yesterday, Paul was sharing his testimony in the temple courts and the crowds had quieted down when he started to speak in Hebrew. They received his words until he brought up the Gentiles. At this, they were enraged once again and wanted Paul dead. (Remember that the devout Jews would have nothing to do with Gentiles.) Yet, according to God’s plan it was not time for Paul’s death. God protected him when Paul told the tribune that he was a Roman citizen.

Paul remained faithful in his witness and God’s direction to go to the Gentiles….no matter what it cost him. He would have rather been in prison or given his life than give up on the mission God set before him. Just like Paul trusted in God; we should too. God has a plan, and it will happen in his time and his way, no matter the opposition. We must keep walking in His way and be obedient to the call.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We have brothers and sisters all throughout the world who are suffering for following Jesus. As we pray for their protection, boldness and continual dependence on Him, we also pray that we will be bold in sharing the good news of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Give us grace to trust in you and wisdom to know how best to spread your Word. Through your Spirit in us and the power of the Gospel, let us fully use the freedom you’ve given us to share YOU with other people today. We pray this is done to glorify you; and we ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.