Speaking Boldly, Forced To Flee

Faith in Action

The Early Church Proclaims Faith in Christ

Faith to Persevere

Acts 14:1-7 The Message

14 1-3 When they got to Iconium they went, as they always did, to the meeting place of the Jews and gave their message. The Message convinced both Jews and non-Jews—and not just a few, either. But the unbelieving Jews worked up a whispering campaign against Paul and Barnabas, sowing mistrust and suspicion in the minds of the people in the street. The two apostles were there a long time, speaking freely, openly, and confidently as they presented the clear evidence of God’s gifts, God corroborating their work with miracles and wonders.
4-7 But then there was a split in public opinion, some siding with the Jews, some with the apostles. One day, learning that both the Jews and non-Jews had been organized by their leaders to beat them up, they escaped as best they could to the next towns—Lyconia, Lystra, Derbe, and that neighborhood—but then were right back at it again, getting out the Message.

For Reflection

Some who hear the Gospel are moved to transform their lives into righteous obedience to God in the way of Christ.  Some, though are driven to fight as though there was a threat to their existence.  Well, to them, as to the unbelieving 1st century Jew, the Gospel was a threat to the way they lived their lives.

Not much has changed in the past two thousand years.  Those who see hope in the Gospel embrace it.  Those who see threat not only reject it but also take active steps to destroy it. The Gospel is a force too dominant to be ignored.

Pray

Pray prayers of thanksgiving and praise for God who does not leave you on your own to face the threats to your faith. Pray for Holy Comfort in times you feel oppressed for God's sake.  Pray for the courage to persevere and grow into Grace.

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