Acts 18 - 10.26.23

Scripture

Acts‬ ‭18‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV

“When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. But when they opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”

Observation

Every Sabbath in Corinth, Paul would try to teach to the Jewish people in the synagogue that Jesus was the Messiah. However, a lot of the people opposed his teachings. They would even insult him. You think that would discourage Paul?..ABSOLUTELY NOT!! Paul pretty much shook it off, and went on to the next town to continue to preach the gospel message.

Application

We may not have the power to change people’s hearts, (only God can). All we can do is be obedient to continue to preach the Good News about Jesus.

Paul knew this sentiment. If anyone knew that it is God who has the power to soften and change people’s hearts, it would definitely be Paul. Paul both literally and figuratively has seen the light. He has seen the truth! And now Paul is making that decision to be fully obedient to Jesus, no matter what the costs. He knew that his life following Jesus would face opposition. But Paul didn’t shy away from the mission Jesus had given him. Paul was willing to take on this challenge and share the Good News about Jesus everywhere he went!

So as I go out today and find opportunities to share with others about Jesus, I shouldn’t let the fear of rejection or the fear of looking dumb get in my way. At the end of the day, Jesus has entrusted me, He has entrusted we as believers, with a very important mission. And that mission is:

“Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”-‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬-‭20

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, give me the courage today to be like Paul, and speak boldly and confidently about Jesus. Help open up doors and opportunities to tell others about the love You have for them. I pray against the fears and doubts of being rejected and ridiculed. Instead, may I take heart knowing that You are with me. May I find motivation and peace knowing that my heart should be about being fully obedient to You and pleasing You. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. 🙏🏽

-Moses Gaddi‬