Be Still…

Read Acts 16:1-5

Paul’s second missionary journey begins and we meet a very special man, Timothy. He was well thought of by the new believers, despite being of “mixed” blood, that is Jewish and Greek (Gentile). There were still tensions between Jews and Gentiles, and perhaps not everyone had heard the council’s report or decree for the young, growing church. Paul’s travels were destined to get that word out. He was about to partner with a new friend,  Timothy.

Timothy’s faith was bold. As we’ve said, up to this point, when men converted to Judaism they were expected to be circumcised to follow Jewish law and tradition. Now, with the new understanding handed down by church elders and leaders, that act was no longer necessary. However, Timothy made a statement about his devotion by doing so anyway. How have you gone above and beyond for your faith? Continue reading “Acts 16:1-5 – How Bold is Your Faith?”

Read Acts 15:36-41

That was a surprise. It seemed like Paul and Barnabas had really bonded. They had suffered much together. Apparently, they had differing opinions when it came to John Mark. I’m not clear what happened to John Mark when he left them halfway through their first missionary journey, but I do recall he returned to Jerusalem. Apparently, there was an unresolved issue that had been present under the surface for some time. It seems like Paul was a little less forgiving than Barnabas.

Nothing will negate the lives that were changed by Paul and Barnabas while they ministered together. By separating and going their different directions, God will continue to use them to multiply his kingdom. Sometimes fresh associations can strengthen a ministry. We see that time and again in churches. When one pastor leaves to serve another church, a new pastor arrives. While ministry may look or sound different, people still embrace the word of God and a new perspective. Many times the new voice will engage new followers that hadn’t been touched before. Continue reading “Acts 15:36-41 – Adios!”

Read Acts 15:22-35

The council met, and an agreement was made. Now it’s time to share with the people, particularly the Gentiles. It’s also a message Jews need to hear and accept as well. As with any decision, some on either side will not be satisfied. But we hear that even the Holy Spirit blessed this decision.

There was another genius move by these leaders. We often see the messenger of such news taking the brunt of the dissatisfaction. The whole church in Jerusalem and the elders chose two men to bring this news to the people. Those men were entrusted with the letter, leaving Paul and Barnabas to minister to the people. They did not have to take any blame or criticism that might be projected from an unhappy believer upon the messenger. Does it seem like I know firsthand what it feels like to bring a message to a group, only to take flack and be ostracized by some? Maybe you do, too. Continue reading “Acts 15:22-35 – Here’s the Deal”

Read Acts 15:1-21

We see a challenge arise in our young church. It is helpful for us to watch how the apostles and leaders work through the differences and reach a resolution. If you’ve ever been part of a church, or any organization for that matter, where a disagreement or difference of opinion arises, you know how important it is to address it quickly and not let it fester or grow into a much bigger problem. Sometimes, unfortunately, unresolved issues can take on a life of their own.

I’ve seen that time and time again, especially when we keep our concerns to ourselves. How can we expect to resolve something that is hidden? Sometimes people thrive on negativity and seem to want to stir up trouble. That is not healthy for a young church or any group. We see a good model here in Acts 15 for healthy resolution and decision making. Continue reading “Acts 15:1-21 – Let’s Decide”

Read Acts 14:21-28

Paul’s first journey comes to an end, as they return to the point of their beginning. I wonder if he knew how many more journeys were ahead and where the Lord would lead? I get the impression he was ready, “on-call” you might say, for the Lord to lead in whatever direction. How about you? Do you stand ready for God to call you to your next mission?

Today’s reading was calm. No stonings or jail time, just straight up sharing and traveling. I like how they retraced their steps so they could encourage the young churches they had planted along the way. The young believers did need encouragement because entering the Kingdom of God is not without hardship.  Despite their hardships and angry mobs, the Word of God was preached and the Good News proclaimed. They had much success to report to the people of Antioch who had “entrusted them to the grace of God.”  Continue reading “Acts 14:21-28 – End of the Road”