THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 21:17-26
“That you yourself are living in obedience to the law.” (Acts 21:24)
To follow the law of Moses or not – this was a serious controversy.
For Jewish Jesus followers, the law was ingrained into their whole being.
They knew Jesus fulfilled the law, but it was still important to them.
In a sense, they were enslaved to the law, not fully realizing their freedom.
Paul did not consider himself to be under the law of Moses.
But here he is willing to observe the law for the sake of Jewish believers.
“To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law.” (1 Corinthians 9:20)
Here he is becoming like one under the law, to set free those still under the law.
I meet Jesus followers who are still living under religious restrictions.
Strict and unhelpful ways of reading the bible that they insist they must obey.
It is not my job to flaunt my freedom, to irritate or provoke them.
I can respect them, even if I disagree with their views, to win them to Jesus.
Over time, in relationship, with the Spirit, they can be won into the freedom of Jesus.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I have my own religious hang ups, limited ways of understanding my full freedom in You. Help me to be as patient and sensitive with others in their limitations, as You are with me.