THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 8:2-4 “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” (Acts 8:4) The word (message) about Jesus is spreading, despite persecution. Wherever people go, they talk about what they have seen, heard and believed. Even though talking would make them targets for people like Saul, they did. They talked at…
A still, quiet soul!
THE STORY OF JESUS: Psalm 131 “I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me.” (Psalm 131:1) Life and reality are more complicated than we care to admit. We like to reduce everything – including God – to a formula we can understand. We are critical when God and things about God…
Am I eager to strengthen others?
THE STORY OF JESUS: 2 Corinthians 12-13 “Everything we do, dear friends, is for your strengthening.” (2 Corinthians 12:19) Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian disciples is strained. They have been bad-mouthing Paul’s weaknesses and failures. Paul stresses that his mission has always been for their blessing. Like Jesus, he wants to build up, not tear down (2 Corinthians 13:10). As a…
Feeling weak?
THE STORY OF JESUS: 2 Corinthians 10-11 “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world.” (2 Corinthians 10:4) The world values strength, charisma, skill, success, money, numbers, etc. Too often the church plays this game too, trying to put on a good show. Paul admits that he is a poor speaker, and unimpressive compared to…
I see Jesus standing!!!
THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 7:54-8:1 “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:56) Often Jesus is described as ‘sitting’ at the right hand of God. But here Stephen sees Jesus standing, ready to step in and support Him. Stephen is not ignoring the angry people threatening…
Resisting the Spirit of Jesus?
THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 7:44-53 “You always resist the Holy Spirit!” (Acts 7:51) Stephen is trying to show his accusers how often they’ve missed God’s point. Either they misunderstood what God said, or refused to listen. They were more interested in religious rules and symbols than about love. They treated the temple and the law with…
Turning back to ‘Egypt’?
THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 7:39-43 “They rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt.” (Acts 7:39) Egypt represents bondage, misery, hopelessness, despair, death. Why would anyone turn back to these? Jesus represents freedom, joy, hope, life. Why wouldn’t anyone turn towards Him? Apparently we have a predisposition towards that which is NOT GOOD for…
Passing on living words!
THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 7:30-38 “He received living words to pass on to us.” (Acts 7:38) Through Moses, whom they spoke against, God speaks words of life. Unlikely Moses was the one God used to set His people free. Can you see the point that Stephen is making? Jesus is the ‘prophet’ that Moses prophesied (Deuteronomy 18:15)….
If God kept a record…
THE STORY OF JESUS: Psalm 130 “If you, LORD, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?” (Psalm 130:3) As a Jesus follower, I am very much aware of my sin. Not just specific sins, but my whole sin nature. I am painfully aware of my self-serving, self-loving nature. In subtle, and not-so subtle ways, I…
A miracle of giving!
THE STORY OF JESUS: 2 Corinthians 8-9 “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15) These two chapters are an inspiring vision of generosity. The Macedonians are still inspiring many with their cheerful giving. Paul writes many memorable sentences to convey this miracle of giving. And after everything he says, he still calls it ‘indescribable’. When…