PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Acts 12:25-13:3
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch).” (Acts 13:1)
In the past I would skip over details like this, but not anymore.
To be “brought up with” Herod, killer of John and Jesus, son of Herod the Great.
Some traditions describe him as Herod’s ‘foster brother’ or ‘life-long friend’.
And here he is now, a prophet and/or teacher in the Jesus movement.
It makes me wonder whether he was in court when Jesus appeared before Herod.
Was he watching Jesus vehemently accused, mocked and ridiculed? (Luke 23:8-11).
Did the Spirit convict him then, as he saw Jesus silently stand up to his friend?
Did he sense the contrast between Herod’s greatness and Jesus’s greatness?
We can only speculate, but it is striking to me that Manaen changes allegience.
He switches from a worldly star to a humble star, from a king to a criminal.
He had every advantage under Herod, why would he give them up for Jesus?
Thinking about Manaen’s conversion makes me wonder why I stand with Jesus.
Like Manaen I am comforted, convicted and compelled by this silent humble ruler.
I’d rather know and follow Jesus than any other famous, rich, powerful star.
PRAYER
Lord, identifying with you seems weak and counter-cultural, and yet I am glad to know and follow you. I’d rather stand with you than any other famous, rich, powerful person.
“Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” In a real sense we as followers of Jesus are all set apart from the ‘world’ – defined as people who do not know Jesus. In this case Barnabas and Saul were called to leave and go. That is special but also very challenging: learning a new language, culture and even much less comfortable living and security – but there is security in going out in faith knowing God is there and cares about you and what you are doing. Each day we need to feel a sense of ‘walking with the Lord’ and asking what would Jesus do – letting the spirit lead as it did among the believers in sending our Barnabas and Saul. We read where it took them and the challenges they faced. But we need not fear but grow in trust!
Chosen.
Set apart for service.
Spirit led.
Encouraged by the community.
We are not our own but belong to our faithful Saviour to serve Him where He has placed us. He has and still is using people He calls to serve Him as instruments of His peace.
Jesus followers.
His will be done.
Jesus calls us o’er the tumult
of our life’s wild, restless sea;
day by day his voice invites me,
saying “Christian, follow me!”
Jesus calls us! In your mercy,
Savior, help us hear your call;
give our hearts to your obedience,
serve and love you best of all!