Have you noticed a pattern in the book of Acts? Any time there is a profound move of the Spirit, it is followed by a riot, some unrest, or danger for the apostle Paul and his companions. We can see similar things happening today when pastors or groups of Christians are persecuted for doing good. It’s like we have targets on our backs for the enemy to come calling, to bring calamity or raise enemies.
I was reminded this week of what Jesus said about this in his Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5:10-12, we read: “God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.” If you are or have ever been threatened because of your faith, rest in the words of Jesus. As believers, we can expect to be targets when we speak openly about our faith.
I can understand why Paul wanted to rush in and set the people straight. He was used to being bold and speaking truth. But fellow believers stopped him because the risk was too great. Can you imagine what may have happened to Paul if he had shown his face? This was the evil one’s “big hurrah,” and Paul would have gotten in the way. God didn’t want Paul to be involved and used wise counsel to keep him safe.
Did you notice what was happening? “Confusion.” The evil one was manipulating the people by causing confusion and inciting a riot. “In fact, most of them didn’t even know why they were there.” If you had been a believer witnessing this spectacle, with all the turmoil, it may have been difficult to discern the truth and forget that this Artemis character was merely a false god or idol to the pagans. Clearly, the prominent silversmith was feeling threatened, so he was the perfect one to incite such a riot. Where did his feeling come from? We’re supposed to rely on facts, not feelings. The fact was his business was suffering, but the fact was that it was based on a lie.
Thankfully, the mayor stepped in to calm the situation. He was able to look at the facts and invited the silversmith to bring a case against Paul, if there were grounds. A riot like this would only bring attention from Rome, and the mayor certainly did not want that to happen.
As Christians, we are likely to ruffle feathers when we stand firmly on our faith. We see how being a Christian is often unpopular in our culture today. While I do see some Christians who seem to have gone astray following after false idols, I’m talking about believers who stand firmly on God’s Word and not the “world.” We’re in a season of darkness as we wait for a revival or, better yet, Jesus’ promised return. The pendulum will swing, but we need to cling to the facts, not fear, while we wait.
What are those facts? That Jesus loves us. That Jesus is coming back to rescue us. That Jesus never leaves our side. That we have Jesus’ power living inside us to protect us, guide us, and give us discernment and understanding of God’s Word. Those are all provisions straight from the Bible we can cling to. Don’t forget Jesus’ own words of blessing. When we keep those “facts” in mind, it’s harder for the feelings of fear and worry to creep in.
Persecution is real. Aren’t you thankful that you have God’s army on your side? The God of angel armies are lyrics from Chris Tomlin’s song, “Whom Shall I Fear?” Listen to that song HERE to close out your quiet time.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I am so thankful that you hear me when I call. You are always faithful. Persecution is real, and I am also grateful that you call us blessed. You said I can be glad. I pray for the persecuted Christians around the globe facing evil in different, frightening ways. Help them feel your presence as they stand firm for you. I also thank you for the many bold Christians I see speaking your truth. Protect them, and may their message fall on the right ears to hear. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
