Paul and Barnabas' main strategy during their first missionary journey was to visit the synagogues and preach to the Jews. They would come in and sit down to wait for an opportunity to speak. It was up to the rulers of the synagogue to offer them an opportunity to speak, but due to the many things that were happening (signs and wonders), people were curious and would give them an opportunity to encourage the people. Then, they would capitalize on the opportunity to present the Gospel message.
How can I spark curiosity in people about my faith? One way is to pray that God will work signs and wonders where I am, whether through me or through others associated with me, so that people will be moved to ask. Signs and wonders should continue to be part and parcel of the Gospel and I should not give up on it. Just because signs and wonders are not as prevalent today as they were in the day of the Apostles does not mean that I should harden my heart towards the possibility that God can do something that impacts our community. I don't have to think of fire and brimstone coming down from heaven. It can be as simple as the answer to a prayer I utter on behalf of an unbeliever.
Paul and Barnabas went to the Jews first because they knew they could have an audience due to their relationship with them. Paul was well known in his time among his peers and he used his influence to bring the Gospel. I need to work on my circle of influence to build bonds of friendship that will bring out the curiosity in people. Unfortunately, I must confess that most of my time is devoted to the church and I am always surrounded by believers. If I am to make an impact in my community, I must find ways to connect with the community, not only as a church, but personally, I must make the effort to have a circle of unbelieving friends in my community.
The content of Paul's message begins with the common history the Jews share of how God brought them out of Egypt. As he recounts their history going through prophets and kings, he points out that God had spoken to the nation about a Savior who would be a descendant of David. He also points out that John the Baptist, as well respected as he was, was not the one to fulfill this prophecy. Jesus is the one who fulfilled the Scriptures who died and resurrected and in whose name they proclaim forgiveness of sins. Paul quotes verses from Psalm2, 16 and Isaiah 29, 55 pointing at Jesus as the Christ and urging them to respond with repentance. I must learn to make connections with people where they are in their spiritual journey. I must also learn to bring them along to understand that Jesus is the Savior of their lives using meaningful connections with their background and experience.
Since the Jews opposed the Gospel message, Paul and Barnabas turned to the Gentiles who received it with great joy and many believed. When unbelief sets in a person's heart, there is only so much I can do. I must be willing to move on to find fertile soil for the Word of God. I'm not talking about giving up on people, but making sure I don't spend all my time with a person who has had plenty of opportunity to respond and has decided to put it off. I must be led by the Holy Spirit to discern when to move on and when to stick it out.
Unfortunately, I must be ready for opposition and persecution as I go about sharing the good news. Paul and Barnabas were driven out of the district by devout men and women to Judaism. Despite the circumstances, they were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. The Apostles considered persecution an honor and a privilege. It was not a reason to be discouraged or depressed. It was a joyous occasion to be persecuted for the name of Jesus. Will I rejoice when persecuted? Will I rejoice when opposed?
Father, help me believe that signs and wonders are still for today and to have an open heart to see you work in my community. Give me opportunities to build a circle of influence among the unchurched. Teach me to build relationships that create curiosity for the faith. Teach me how to connect with people and bring them to the cross. Fill my heart with joy as I am obedient to your mandate whether people respond or not. Amen
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