It’s helpful to remember that Philippi was a Roman colony for all that happens to our missionaries in this reading. Did it surprise you that Paul and Silas would have been thrown into prison for preaching the Good News? Roman law would have required that new religions be recognized and approved. The real reason the men were mad at Paul was because of their greed and how Paul’s deliverance had hurt their business. The masters had to think fast, realizing a personal vendetta would not anger the authorities.
The persecution Paul and his companions faced was intense. We shouldn’t rush past what they endured. Spreading the gospel was not always a “walk in the park” for them. Still today, Christians find themselves at odds with non-believers. When I think of what is happening to fellow believers in Nigeria, my heart shatters. Despite all the killing and fears persecution brings, God’s people remain faithful. Have you ever thought about how you would stand up for Jesus if put in a threatening position? Continue reading “Acts 16:16-40 – God Uses Our Pain”
