Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Acts 28:11-22 Accepted or Rejected

Acts 28:11-22 NIV
Forever and ever... It seems like there were always be those who support the servants of God and there will also always be those who will do anything and everything to subvert the message brought by God's servants.

Paul has finally made it to Rome under guard. The believers from the area went to meet him when they heard that he was there. The local Jewish leaders also want to hear from him. But, they want to hear because they have heard only bad things about this Christian sect. Whether it is accepted or rejected, Paul, the prisoner, is still  provided opportunities by God to proclaim the message of the Kingdom through Jesus Christ to many people.

Sometimes, we will share the Good News with people whom we think might be open to it. At other times, we will keep our lips closed for fear that the message (and we) will be rejected. This was not the way that Paul followed. It was definitely not The Way of Jesus. The Good News is for all people. Do not be afraid to share it.

We are called and sent to share the message of forgiveness and reconciliation in the Kingdom through the sacrifice of Jesus. Maybe we should ask ourselves what news it is that we share most often with others. Is that message about our favorite sports team or politician or maybe television star or musician? Or maybe what we talk about is the latest blow-out or party favor (the illegal kind)? Hmmm... We humans tend to place a lot of emphasis on false gods. What about sharing the message of peace - the peace that is received in the knowledge of what Christ has done for us? For the Christian, there can be no greater focus than on sharing the message of salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord with those who do not know him. Do not be afraid to do that! Whether the message is accepted or rejected, it is still the message that saves lives. Give them a chance to know it and know Him!

God's Peace - Pr. J

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