Do you feel a little like you are accompanying Paul on his missionary journey? Does the way Luke writes this account make you feel like you are right there? We also see a little of life in Thessalonica to see what kind of believers there are and what their challenges may be. As you may know, Paul writes two letters to that community of faith as part of our New Testament.
What struck you most about this leg of the men’s journey? Do you want to see a map so that you truly picture the countryside being covered? I like picturing Paul teaching the Bible to folks. Of course, stories about Jesus were not part of the Scriptures Jews were familiar with. In those early days, it was writers like Luke who were also keeping track of Jesus’ life and impact on the world. Our New Testament was living out loud as it was written.
We’re writing our own place in history. Our lives, struggles, passions, joys, and faith journey may not be in the Bible, but the Bible talks about us and was written just for us. Let that sink in for just a moment. The Word of God was written for you to help guide you and instruct you. 1 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” The Bible is speaking about itself, and it’s what God wants us to know.
We’re told “some” Jews and “many” Gentiles decided to follow Jesus during the course of Paul’s stay. Of course, not everyone is going to like the message or get on board. Why does it always seem like there is a fringe of discontent with the Good News? I’d have to say that “fringe” seems bigger these days.
Christians are not always popular in certain circles. I’ve learned to be cautious but very open to sharing once an opening is made. You never know who has an open-minded spirit ready to listen to a message they’ve not heard much before. Many have heard, but they’ve listened to the wrong teaching from the false teachers the Bible warns us about.
I have great respect for Paul’s friend, Jason, who really took some heat for being a believer. I would be guilty like Jason because I only bow to King Jesus. Sad that some can’t see the “freedom” Jesus brings. There will always be a sense of respect for who God allows into positions of authority, but like Daniel in the Old Testament, and many believers since, there are no other gods or earthly lords that could take the place of my one true God.
Because their missionary work in Thessalonica was compromised, God sent them on to a new community, Berea. These folks were more open-minded to Paul’s ministry, and it sounds like an uplifting place to be. I wonder what was different about the communities that made for this more welcoming vibe.
We always hope for exposure to people with open minds ready to hear the gospel. I was reminded recently that all we have to do is share the good news, period. We don’t have to sign the people up for Team Jesus right there on the spot. We don’t have to force them to ask Jesus into their heart. We need to nurture them, get them to trust us and understand more about who Jesus is. Jesus loves followers who are all in and ready for service. Some people need more time than others. It’s the Holy Spirit at work in them, not anything we are doing. We’re just watering or planting.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, thank you for each opportunity you give me to share with others about you and how you are working in my life. Give me eyes to see you directing me and leading me. I want to reflect you well in all I say and do. Sustain me and move me. I’m yours. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
