Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them. Acts 14:15
While I have completed my study of Zechariah and it's time to transition to Malachi (as part of my study of the last four books of the OT using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book), I pause before moving to Malachi to study Acts 13-14 as preparation for my Sunday school discussion this upcoming Sunday. In Acts 14, we once again see Paul speaking boldly. Many believed (v1) but we also see opposition and persecution from the Jews (v2). But Paul and Barnabas remained in Iconium and continued speaking boldly despite opposition and threats (vv3-4), including an effort to stone them (v5). Undeterred, similar to Peter and John's response to the Jewish leaders who called them before the Council (see Acts 4:20), Paul and Barnabas pressed forward in their mission to share the gospel (vv6-7). After healing a crippled man (vv8-10), those in the crowd felt compelled to worship Paul and Barnabas (vv11-13). Yet Paul's response in vv14-15, draped in humility, exhorted the crowd to believe in the One who sent them and gave them the power of the Holy Spirit to perform such signs, wonders, and miracles. Once again, opposition arose and Paul was dragged out and stoned (v19). But Paul rose up and moved on - continuing to preach (v20)! Amazing Paul and Barnabas could not be stopped! This is clearly the hand of God. As they continued the text shares how Paul encouraged the believers to endure in their faith despite how they will experience many tribulations (v22). The believers (vv23-28) encouraged one another and glorified God in what He had done. Key themes in the text include (1) how Paul and Barnabas continued to preach boldly despite the threats to their physical safety; (2) how Paul and Barnabas remained humble despite having the great power of the Holy Spirit working in them (this is the same power that raised Christ from the dead - see also Ephesians 1:19-20 (NLT)); (3) fellowship among believers remained critical for encouragement and discipleship; and (4) how believers will face trials and challenges as we strive to live on mission (we will overcome - see John 16:33).
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Father God, thank You for the example of Paul and Barnabas and Your Word. I spend time with You, grow closer to You, and I am prayerful that I can become more like You and please You. I am not deserving of how You love, save and bless me with Your Word. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
