SCRIPTURE: Acts 23:23-24:9
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
This story reminds me of what is happening here in Canada, with the Dalai Lama in town, and the Chinese government accusing him of being a terrorist, promoting violence and rebellion against the nation of China. No doubt he does pose a threat to their authority, but he does not promote violence. He speaks a message of peace and non-violence. Similarly Paul is being accused of upsetting the nation and the temple, and promoting violence and rebellion.
How is it that peace-makers can be a threat? When they take a peaceful stand against the establishment, and the establishment feels threatened. Think of how Ghandi brought a new freedom to India, completely through non-violence. Ironically, many Christians today do not really believe Jesus’ message of peace-making, while some non-Christians seem to be modeling it.
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me for forgetting that the way of the Kingdom is not the way of numbers and petitions and protest and political power. Help me to believe that the message BELIEVED and LIVED is the key to turning this world upside down. Amen.
Our God is a mighty God performing His wondrous acts to accomplish His purposes. Here we see that God even uses the military His purpose to fulfill. Paul is on his way to Rome, away from Jerusalem. Those who should have received Paul with open arms did not. Their eyes were blinded and their hearts hardened. They did not see the Lord at work through Paul. They were caught up in their own ways. They were living for theirselves – serving their own desires.
Help me always to see You Jesus as I continue to work in Your kingdom. Help me alwayss to live for Jesus in all i do and say.
As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after you
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship you
You alone are my strength, my shield
To you alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship you