Paul's desire to visit the churches he had planted with Barnabas was met with an obstacle. Barnabas wanted to take John Mark with him and Paul did not like the idea of taking someone who had quit during the missionary journey (Acts 13). Why did John Mark leave? The answer to that question would be complete speculation because there is no evidence to explain his reasons. All we know is that he cut the trip really short and went back to the church of Antioch.
Regardless of John Mark's reasons for leaving, the fact is that he decided to abandon the work with Saul and Barnabas. Paul most certainly did not approve of his leaving since he holds it against him and does not desire to bring him along during this second trip he is planning. Barnabas on the other hand doesn't seem to make much of John Mark's leaving them and is more than willing to partner with him a second time. The issue became a sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas as to merit a separation. Barnabas took John Mark and went his way. Paul took Silas and went his way.
An important factor in this disagreement is that Paul and Barnabas are blessed by the leadership and were "commended to the grace of God." Whatever the disagreements were, it did not interfere with their ability to remain in harmony as to continue the work in the kingdom. It disrupted the relationship enough not to be able to team up, but they could continue the work independently. Paul's disapproval of John Mark here did not prevent him from seeing the growth in him later on (2Tim.4:11; Col.4:10).
I think it is important to keep the harmony and teamwork in ministry and if for any reason I am not willing or able to keep that harmony, I should not engage with that team. Unity through the bond of peace is an essential element for the success of any team effort and I would do well in not overlooking it. Let's team up with people whom we can live in harmony and avoid the arguments and bickering that come as a result of our teaming up with people we have issues with. It is a disservice to the kingdom and to ourselves. So separation from each other to be more effective in the kingdom is a good strategy to handle sharp disagreements.
Father, I pray you instill in me the desire to work with others. Help me to be a good team player, open to diversity, and willing to lead with all my heart. Help me handle sharp disagreements with grace and always honor you in the process. Give me discernment to judge who to team up with in the work of your kingdom. Amen.
Showing posts with label Barnabas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Barnabas. Show all posts
Friday, November 6, 2009
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Acts 15:12-21 The Jerusalem Council - Part II
After Peter's testimony on how the Holy Spirit guided him to minister to the Gentiles and how the Holy Spirit came upon them just like for the Jews, Paul and Barnabas take the stand and testify on all the signs and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles. Both Peter and Paul had experienced the presence of the Spirit guiding them to minister to the Gentiles and the power of the Spirit upon them in conversion and baptism accompanied by signs and wonders just like among the Jews. There is no partiality in God and there should be none in the Church which means there should be none in me.
Now James, the Apostle, more likely the lead elder of the Jerusalem church, offers scriptural backing for what Peter, Saul, and Barnabas have experienced and are trying to explain. He cites Amos 9:11-12 that refers to the restoration of Israel in the end times to include all the nations of the world. It is interesting to note that the apostles are reasoning together to find a solution to the Gentile issue. They bring experience, but they also bring the Scriptures to bear upon it. There was no angel with a message, there was no vision (they had a few already on the issue), and they were not prophet speaking a word. Yet, the presence of the Spirit in their decision-making cannot be questioned. Experience, Scripture, and Reason are working together for the glory of God and the advancement of his kingdom.
James, based on the evidence before them, proposed a solution to the issue of asking Gentile believers to circumcise and keep the Law. He proposed that no undue burden be placed upon them, but "to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood." And the reason he gives for the Gentiles to abstain from these things is that the Law is proclaimed in the synagogues everywhere. In other words, to ensure that the Gospel would have no stumbling blocks among the Jews and to ensure the fellowship between Gentiles and Jews, there had to be some standard of conduct.
Am I willing to do whatever it takes to avoid being a stumbling block for the Gospel where I live? Am I willing to do whatever it takes to ensure fellowship with my brothers and sisters who are different from me in my local church? I think I am too prompt to sound the cultural trumpet to excuse myself from things that could offend others. Whether that be language, food, greeting, etc. I must be willing to give up my culture for the sake of the kingdom of God so that people don't have objections to the Gospel and my brothers and sisters can feel comfortable around me. Ultimately, my citizenship is from heaven and not from earth. And heavenly citizens are willing to give up their earthly customs to promote evangelism and fellowship.
Father, thank you for my heavenly citizenship. Help me understand that my culture may stand in the way of reaching others for the kingdom and it may stand in the way of bonding with my brothers and sisters in the kingdom. Grant me discernment to learn what I must give up to avoid being a stumbling block for the Gospel. Amen.
Now James, the Apostle, more likely the lead elder of the Jerusalem church, offers scriptural backing for what Peter, Saul, and Barnabas have experienced and are trying to explain. He cites Amos 9:11-12 that refers to the restoration of Israel in the end times to include all the nations of the world. It is interesting to note that the apostles are reasoning together to find a solution to the Gentile issue. They bring experience, but they also bring the Scriptures to bear upon it. There was no angel with a message, there was no vision (they had a few already on the issue), and they were not prophet speaking a word. Yet, the presence of the Spirit in their decision-making cannot be questioned. Experience, Scripture, and Reason are working together for the glory of God and the advancement of his kingdom.
James, based on the evidence before them, proposed a solution to the issue of asking Gentile believers to circumcise and keep the Law. He proposed that no undue burden be placed upon them, but "to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood." And the reason he gives for the Gentiles to abstain from these things is that the Law is proclaimed in the synagogues everywhere. In other words, to ensure that the Gospel would have no stumbling blocks among the Jews and to ensure the fellowship between Gentiles and Jews, there had to be some standard of conduct.
Am I willing to do whatever it takes to avoid being a stumbling block for the Gospel where I live? Am I willing to do whatever it takes to ensure fellowship with my brothers and sisters who are different from me in my local church? I think I am too prompt to sound the cultural trumpet to excuse myself from things that could offend others. Whether that be language, food, greeting, etc. I must be willing to give up my culture for the sake of the kingdom of God so that people don't have objections to the Gospel and my brothers and sisters can feel comfortable around me. Ultimately, my citizenship is from heaven and not from earth. And heavenly citizens are willing to give up their earthly customs to promote evangelism and fellowship.
Father, thank you for my heavenly citizenship. Help me understand that my culture may stand in the way of reaching others for the kingdom and it may stand in the way of bonding with my brothers and sisters in the kingdom. Grant me discernment to learn what I must give up to avoid being a stumbling block for the Gospel. Amen.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Acts 15:1-11 The Jerusalem Council - Part I
One of the ploys the enemy uses to come against the Church is false teaching. Some men (Jews, of course) had come from Judea teaching that circumcision was a requirement for salvation and that Gentile believers needed to keep the Law of Moses to be part of the Church. Paul and Barnabas debated them, but it seemed to cause enough trouble to require a ruling on the matter. At this point we can see that the Jerusalem church acted as a "mother church" for the work that was taking root in the surrounding areas due to the fact that the Apostles were there. Paul and Barnabas were sent to consult them on this matter, but while they made their way to Jerusalem, they continued to testify what great things God had done among the Gentiles.
Apostles and elders gathered together to settle the matter through much debate. Peter relates to the brethren how God called him to preach to the Gentiles. He offers as proof of God's approval the giving of the Spirit to them just as he did to the Jews. God makes no distinctions. Salvation is by grace through faith and a requirement like this would only become a yoke (burden) to the new believers as it has been for the Jews all these years. Furthermore, Peter argues that such a requirement is to put God to the test sinning against him. It is important to understand that the Law referred to here has to do with circumcision, ceremonies and rituals, including kosher foods.
With the giving of any law, there are dangers that could be depicted as cliffs on both sides of a road. On the one hand, there is the danger of legalism. This is an excessive adherence to the letter of the law missing out on the spirit of the law. Rules and regulations are good, but when taken to extremes they snuff out the life it is supposed to protect in its adherents. Legalism makes adherence to the law a zealous compliance to form and rituals that becomes mechanical, devoid of fervor and passion and therefore, meaningless.
On the other hand, there is the danger of liberalism. This is a disregard for rules and regulations bordering on anarchy and producing chaos. In this view, rules and regulations are meant to be broken bringing freedom. Unfortunately, just like legalism, it enslaves its adherents to less than the law intended. The purpose of the law is to bring order and protect its followers from abuses. Without adherence to the law there is no order or safety. Liberalism produces in its followers an arrogant attitude against authority.
Salvation cannot be viewed as a bunch of dos and don'ts. The Jews were not able to comply with the Law and so it would be for the Gentiles also. No one can keep the Law! Jesus Christ came into the world to fulfill the Law of God and promote justice so that all who trust in him can enjoy the benefits of eternal life. He took upon himself the penalty of our disobedience to comply with the Law and to be able to offer eternal life to all who dare trust in him. The Gospel does away with all the ceremonies and regulations, but it does not do away with the ten commandments - the Moral Law. We are still to strive to obey and please our God, but in grace it is not in our strength, but with God's help. "Trust and obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey."
Father, thank you for your Son who gave himself for me to make salvation by grace through faith possible. Teach me to obey your Law that I may please you. Guard my heart from the extremes of legalism and liberalism. Help me walk the straight path you have set out for me in your Word. Amen.
Apostles and elders gathered together to settle the matter through much debate. Peter relates to the brethren how God called him to preach to the Gentiles. He offers as proof of God's approval the giving of the Spirit to them just as he did to the Jews. God makes no distinctions. Salvation is by grace through faith and a requirement like this would only become a yoke (burden) to the new believers as it has been for the Jews all these years. Furthermore, Peter argues that such a requirement is to put God to the test sinning against him. It is important to understand that the Law referred to here has to do with circumcision, ceremonies and rituals, including kosher foods.
With the giving of any law, there are dangers that could be depicted as cliffs on both sides of a road. On the one hand, there is the danger of legalism. This is an excessive adherence to the letter of the law missing out on the spirit of the law. Rules and regulations are good, but when taken to extremes they snuff out the life it is supposed to protect in its adherents. Legalism makes adherence to the law a zealous compliance to form and rituals that becomes mechanical, devoid of fervor and passion and therefore, meaningless.
On the other hand, there is the danger of liberalism. This is a disregard for rules and regulations bordering on anarchy and producing chaos. In this view, rules and regulations are meant to be broken bringing freedom. Unfortunately, just like legalism, it enslaves its adherents to less than the law intended. The purpose of the law is to bring order and protect its followers from abuses. Without adherence to the law there is no order or safety. Liberalism produces in its followers an arrogant attitude against authority.
Salvation cannot be viewed as a bunch of dos and don'ts. The Jews were not able to comply with the Law and so it would be for the Gentiles also. No one can keep the Law! Jesus Christ came into the world to fulfill the Law of God and promote justice so that all who trust in him can enjoy the benefits of eternal life. He took upon himself the penalty of our disobedience to comply with the Law and to be able to offer eternal life to all who dare trust in him. The Gospel does away with all the ceremonies and regulations, but it does not do away with the ten commandments - the Moral Law. We are still to strive to obey and please our God, but in grace it is not in our strength, but with God's help. "Trust and obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey."
Father, thank you for your Son who gave himself for me to make salvation by grace through faith possible. Teach me to obey your Law that I may please you. Guard my heart from the extremes of legalism and liberalism. Help me walk the straight path you have set out for me in your Word. Amen.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Acts 14:19-28 Paul Stoned at Lystra and Return
Paul's missionary journey was filled with opposition along the way. He stayed in the towns for as long as he could before moving onto the next one. Unfortunately, Jews from the previous two cities (Antioch - of Pisidia, not of Syria; and Iconium) came to Lystra to rally the people against Paul. They stoned him and dragged him out of the city presuming he was dead, but he wasn't. The fact that he got up and walked on his own strength is an indication that God intervened miraculously to heal him. It is not reasonable to think that after a stoning you can just walk. I truly believe that God healed Paul in response to the brothers gathering around him to pray.
God is good and he comes to aid his people. I also admire Paul's resilience. Would I get up after a stoning to go into yet another city to preach? I think many people would call it quits under the same circumstances. At least, many would have taken a break to recover before moving onto the next destination. Not Paul! Paul's resilience speaks volumes of his conviction and commitment to the Gospel and his calling. I wish I had half of his resilience to overcome the many setbacks one experiences in the kingdom.
Moving onto Derbe, they preached the Gospel there until they had made many disciples. Here is an amazing fact: Paul returns to the cities of Lystra, Antioch, and Iconium. These are the very cities that mobilized people all the way to Lystra to get him stoned! Why? Paul wanted to go back to those cities to present himself as a living testimony of God's goodness to encourage the brethren to persevere even under persecution. The story of his stoning spread like fire in the surrounding towns and it was important for him to show his face and give testimony of God's grace. I am sure many were shocked to learn he was still alive!
Here is a true act of humility. Paul did not think of himself, but he thought of the welfare of the brethren and was willing to take risks to ensure their growth was not stunted by what happened to him. He strengthened, encouraged, and taught them that tribulations is the entryway to the kingdom of God. Here is a very unpopular teaching: "through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God." It is a narrow path; it is the road less taken; it is a difficult journey. Why do I think that my walk of faith should be easy and without obstacles or opposition? The Church will be subject to tribulation until the return of our Lord.
Can't miss out on the strategy that Paul has established in this missionary journey. First, he teams up with workers who complement him in giftedness. Second, he targets a people who can identify with him (Jews in the synagogue) to become an audience for the Gospel. Third, new believers are strengthened, encouraged, and taught the Scriptures to remain strong in their faith. Next, he appoints elders at each location in fasting and prayer. The elders are the ones to take on the reigns of the planted church in each city. Fifth, he returns to the sending church to give reports and rest.
Father, help me to be resilient in the midst of the tribulations of life. Teach me to love the brethren with a passion willing to humble myself to ensure their welfare. Move me to strategize to advance your kingdom. Amen.
God is good and he comes to aid his people. I also admire Paul's resilience. Would I get up after a stoning to go into yet another city to preach? I think many people would call it quits under the same circumstances. At least, many would have taken a break to recover before moving onto the next destination. Not Paul! Paul's resilience speaks volumes of his conviction and commitment to the Gospel and his calling. I wish I had half of his resilience to overcome the many setbacks one experiences in the kingdom.
Moving onto Derbe, they preached the Gospel there until they had made many disciples. Here is an amazing fact: Paul returns to the cities of Lystra, Antioch, and Iconium. These are the very cities that mobilized people all the way to Lystra to get him stoned! Why? Paul wanted to go back to those cities to present himself as a living testimony of God's goodness to encourage the brethren to persevere even under persecution. The story of his stoning spread like fire in the surrounding towns and it was important for him to show his face and give testimony of God's grace. I am sure many were shocked to learn he was still alive!
Here is a true act of humility. Paul did not think of himself, but he thought of the welfare of the brethren and was willing to take risks to ensure their growth was not stunted by what happened to him. He strengthened, encouraged, and taught them that tribulations is the entryway to the kingdom of God. Here is a very unpopular teaching: "through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God." It is a narrow path; it is the road less taken; it is a difficult journey. Why do I think that my walk of faith should be easy and without obstacles or opposition? The Church will be subject to tribulation until the return of our Lord.
Can't miss out on the strategy that Paul has established in this missionary journey. First, he teams up with workers who complement him in giftedness. Second, he targets a people who can identify with him (Jews in the synagogue) to become an audience for the Gospel. Third, new believers are strengthened, encouraged, and taught the Scriptures to remain strong in their faith. Next, he appoints elders at each location in fasting and prayer. The elders are the ones to take on the reigns of the planted church in each city. Fifth, he returns to the sending church to give reports and rest.
Father, help me to be resilient in the midst of the tribulations of life. Teach me to love the brethren with a passion willing to humble myself to ensure their welfare. Move me to strategize to advance your kingdom. Amen.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Acts 14:1-7 Paul and Barnabas at Iconium
Paul and Barnabas moved into Iconium, what is known today as Konya, Turkey, and preached the Gospel following their established pattern of visiting the synagogues first. The good news is many, both Jews and Gentiles, came to believe the Gospel. The bad news is that Paul and Barnabas met much opposition. The unbelievers began to harass and poison the minds of the people against the missionaries. What was the reaction of the missionaries? They stayed for a long time!
Many a times, we think that opposition means that we have to give up and move on. But both Paul and Barnabas continued the work of the kingdom under the stressful circumstances of opposition. I should be more resilient in my kingdom work. I should not give up that easily my witness after meeting opposition. Opposition must be seen as part and parcel of the witnessing endeavor and I must learn to endure it. Moreover, Paul and Barnabas did not lose their boldness as a result of opposition, but continued to speak boldly for the Lord.
The Lord "bore witness to the word of his grace." In the midst of opposition, God placed his stamp of approval upon the work of the missionaries by "granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands." Signs and wonders were a demonstration of God's power in their midst. It was a way of telling the people that God was behind every word the missionaries spoke to them. There should be a sense of expectation in my life that God will make himself known to people backing up my witness. I must believe that God works in people's lives to affirm my witness to them. I must believe that opposition does not hinder my God from working among unbelievers.
A question worth pondering in kingdom work is: How much risk should we take for the kingdom? For sure, we see the apostles living in dangerous situations all the time, but it seems there is a limit. When the opposition amounted to a plot of abuse and murder, they decided to move on. We are called to give our lives for the cause of the Gospel, but we should not seek to be martyrs. Living in danger is one thing, but the apostles thought it wiser to flee to stay alive and be able to preach somewhere else. There is no shame in fleeing from death if given such an opportunity.
Father, grant me boldness and courage to be a witness for you even in the midst of opposition. Help me endure opposition to give glory to your name. May I have the expectation to see it at work in people's lives when I witness to them. Teach me to take risks for your kingdom. Amen.
Many a times, we think that opposition means that we have to give up and move on. But both Paul and Barnabas continued the work of the kingdom under the stressful circumstances of opposition. I should be more resilient in my kingdom work. I should not give up that easily my witness after meeting opposition. Opposition must be seen as part and parcel of the witnessing endeavor and I must learn to endure it. Moreover, Paul and Barnabas did not lose their boldness as a result of opposition, but continued to speak boldly for the Lord.
The Lord "bore witness to the word of his grace." In the midst of opposition, God placed his stamp of approval upon the work of the missionaries by "granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands." Signs and wonders were a demonstration of God's power in their midst. It was a way of telling the people that God was behind every word the missionaries spoke to them. There should be a sense of expectation in my life that God will make himself known to people backing up my witness. I must believe that God works in people's lives to affirm my witness to them. I must believe that opposition does not hinder my God from working among unbelievers.
A question worth pondering in kingdom work is: How much risk should we take for the kingdom? For sure, we see the apostles living in dangerous situations all the time, but it seems there is a limit. When the opposition amounted to a plot of abuse and murder, they decided to move on. We are called to give our lives for the cause of the Gospel, but we should not seek to be martyrs. Living in danger is one thing, but the apostles thought it wiser to flee to stay alive and be able to preach somewhere else. There is no shame in fleeing from death if given such an opportunity.
Father, grant me boldness and courage to be a witness for you even in the midst of opposition. Help me endure opposition to give glory to your name. May I have the expectation to see it at work in people's lives when I witness to them. Teach me to take risks for your kingdom. Amen.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Acts 13:13-51 Paul and Barnabas at Antioch in Pisidia
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
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
Monday, October 19, 2009
Acts 13:4-12 Barnabas and Saul on Cyprus
This is the beginning of the first missionary journey for Barnabas and Saul. From Antioch they go to Seleucia which is on the coast of the Mediterranean and from there they sail to the island of Cyprus. Arriving at Salamis on the east coast, they travel across the island to the west, all the way to Paphos. Why did they choose this path? I am certain that the Holy Spirit was guiding them in their journey as they prayed to him for direction. Also, we can see the commitment to spread the Gospel systematically across the region as they make their way through. Am I committed to spread the Gospel?
It is worth noting that what we call missionary journey for Barnabas and Saul is really a trip to the surrounding regions of Antioch and not so much a voyage to the unknown places of the world where language and cultural training was required. The Church began its outreach to the areas that were at its reach first. The Church took responsibility for missions. Am I committed to share the Gospel in a systematic way in our region? Am I willing to view missions as going to the surrounding regions of the church and not just going "overseas?"
Barnabas and Saul began their missionary journey doing what they knew how to do. They proclaimed the good news of the Gospel to the Jews in their synagogues. How did they react to opposition? Here we have the example of Bar-Jesus or Elymas. He was a magician - remember that magicians are not illusionists; they are more like spiritists. He also opposed the preaching of Paul trying to turn the proconsul Sergius Paulus, who was seeking to hear the Gospel, away from the faith. Paul confronted the man and brought a curse upon him to be blinded for a time. He accused him of "making crooked the straight paths of the Lord." This confrontation brought Sergius Paulus to believe the Word of God.
As I attempt to proclaim the good news of the Gospel, I will encounter opposition to the spread of the Word of God. It is important to identify the things that hinder the preaching of the Gospel and address them head on. In Paul's case it was a confrontation of powers, the Gospel vs Elymas' magic. Paul brings a curse upon him to demonstrate that magic is no match for the power of the Gospel. What are the things that oppose the Gospel in my neighborhood? How can I confront and disarm them? Am I truly committed to see the Word of God spread no matter the cost?
Father, guide me to share the good news of the Gospel with those who need it. Fill me with your Spirit to confront the obstacles and false teachings that stand in my way to communicate the Gospel. Fill me with joy as I share the abundant life of the kingdom. Amen.
It is worth noting that what we call missionary journey for Barnabas and Saul is really a trip to the surrounding regions of Antioch and not so much a voyage to the unknown places of the world where language and cultural training was required. The Church began its outreach to the areas that were at its reach first. The Church took responsibility for missions. Am I committed to share the Gospel in a systematic way in our region? Am I willing to view missions as going to the surrounding regions of the church and not just going "overseas?"
Barnabas and Saul began their missionary journey doing what they knew how to do. They proclaimed the good news of the Gospel to the Jews in their synagogues. How did they react to opposition? Here we have the example of Bar-Jesus or Elymas. He was a magician - remember that magicians are not illusionists; they are more like spiritists. He also opposed the preaching of Paul trying to turn the proconsul Sergius Paulus, who was seeking to hear the Gospel, away from the faith. Paul confronted the man and brought a curse upon him to be blinded for a time. He accused him of "making crooked the straight paths of the Lord." This confrontation brought Sergius Paulus to believe the Word of God.
As I attempt to proclaim the good news of the Gospel, I will encounter opposition to the spread of the Word of God. It is important to identify the things that hinder the preaching of the Gospel and address them head on. In Paul's case it was a confrontation of powers, the Gospel vs Elymas' magic. Paul brings a curse upon him to demonstrate that magic is no match for the power of the Gospel. What are the things that oppose the Gospel in my neighborhood? How can I confront and disarm them? Am I truly committed to see the Word of God spread no matter the cost?
Father, guide me to share the good news of the Gospel with those who need it. Fill me with your Spirit to confront the obstacles and false teachings that stand in my way to communicate the Gospel. Fill me with joy as I share the abundant life of the kingdom. Amen.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Acts 13:1-3 Barnabas and Saul Sent Off
The Church at Antioch had a great blessing to have prophets and teachers - at least five listed here! From that pool of workers, the Holy Spirit chose Saul and Barnabas for another work according to his calling. Throughout the New Testament, prophet and teacher are offices of great respect. Paul himself wrote later on that we should procure the best gifts, among them prophecy. Teaching and prophesying are highly regarded because through them the Word of God is explained for the conversion of souls and the edification of the church. A healthy church should institute ways to build up new prophets and teachers.
It is worth noting from the list of teachers and prophets that Antioch was a multi-ethnic church and not bound by partiality. Saul and Barnabas were Jews; Simeon and Lucius were black people from North Africa; and Manaen seemed to be well connected with the upper class in Rome. All of them worshiped together and worked together for the kingdom of God. The Church must be free from partiality and become an open community of Christ to make an impact in the world. Though there were many tendencies to separate Jew from Gentile and Greek from Roman due to socio-econo-political reasons, the Church fought against those tendencies to establish a Church that is united in its diversity.
Since the Church is guided by the Holy Spirit, it makes only sense that the Church is constantly seeking him in worship, fasting, and prayer. These are the basic disciplines of the deeper life in Christ. If I am to grow as a Christian, I must learn to worship, fast and pray. Notice that it is not a personal spiritual practice in this context. The Church at Antioch was devoted to these spiritual disciplines as a congregation. I must learn to worship, fast, and pray with my brothers and sisters as a concerted effort to seek his direction for the whole church. The Holy Spirit speaks to his church in an environment of worship, fasting, and prayer. How devoted am I to these disciplines? Moreover, how committed am I to practice them in unity with my brothers and sisters in the church?
The sendoff of Saul and Barnabas was the result of a church committed to seek the guidance of the Spirit in worship, fasting, and prayer. The fact that there is an imposition of hands for this sendoff tells us that the elders of the church were behind it. It also tells us that there is a process by which workers are recognized to be sent out to the field; there is a hierarchy; there is order. The expansion of God's kingdom depends on our willingness to send workers out into the field. I have to shift from the "us four and no more" paradigm to an open-fisted one, willing to send workers to the field under the guidance and direction of the Spirit.
It is worth noting from the list of teachers and prophets that Antioch was a multi-ethnic church and not bound by partiality. Saul and Barnabas were Jews; Simeon and Lucius were black people from North Africa; and Manaen seemed to be well connected with the upper class in Rome. All of them worshiped together and worked together for the kingdom of God. The Church must be free from partiality and become an open community of Christ to make an impact in the world. Though there were many tendencies to separate Jew from Gentile and Greek from Roman due to socio-econo-political reasons, the Church fought against those tendencies to establish a Church that is united in its diversity.
Since the Church is guided by the Holy Spirit, it makes only sense that the Church is constantly seeking him in worship, fasting, and prayer. These are the basic disciplines of the deeper life in Christ. If I am to grow as a Christian, I must learn to worship, fast and pray. Notice that it is not a personal spiritual practice in this context. The Church at Antioch was devoted to these spiritual disciplines as a congregation. I must learn to worship, fast, and pray with my brothers and sisters as a concerted effort to seek his direction for the whole church. The Holy Spirit speaks to his church in an environment of worship, fasting, and prayer. How devoted am I to these disciplines? Moreover, how committed am I to practice them in unity with my brothers and sisters in the church?
The sendoff of Saul and Barnabas was the result of a church committed to seek the guidance of the Spirit in worship, fasting, and prayer. The fact that there is an imposition of hands for this sendoff tells us that the elders of the church were behind it. It also tells us that there is a process by which workers are recognized to be sent out to the field; there is a hierarchy; there is order. The expansion of God's kingdom depends on our willingness to send workers out into the field. I have to shift from the "us four and no more" paradigm to an open-fisted one, willing to send workers to the field under the guidance and direction of the Spirit.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Acts 11:19-30 The Church in Antioch
Antioch is an exciting church plant and a great model to follow. Most of the believers in those days were preaching to Jews only, but a few began to witness to the Hellenists (Greeks) and they began to trust in the Lord. The word about these conversions came to the ears of the Apostles in Jerusalem and they sent Barnabas to check out what was going on. It is important to note the interest that the Apostles have to ensure the integrity of the preaching of the Gospel. Organization is a very important part of the kingdom of God and we would do well to pay attention to it. The movement in Antioch was at the "grass roots," but nonetheless the Apostles intervened to "supervise it." The Church is built on authority and hierarchies and we can't do away with them. Doing away with them produces chaos at most and a lack of doctrinal integrity at the least.
Barnabas was the emissary of choice because he was a good man, full of the Spirit and of faith. He was able to discern what the Spirit was doing among the people ("saw the grace of God") and rejoiced with them. He was also able to exhort or encourage the brethren "to remain faithful with steadfast purpose." Barnabas is an encourager. The work of the kingdom requires people who are able to encourage others to follow Christ with steadfast purpose. I want to be a Barnabas, an encourager of God's people! A man full of the Spirit and faith able to discern God's work among his people and able to celebrate with them. What keeps me down when I know deep down that I am an encourager?
Interestingly enough, encouragement is not enough and Barnabas was well aware of it. The church needs encouragement, but it is not enough to get it through the trials and tribulations of the day. The church needs strong teaching and Barnabas set out to find it in Saul. Saul was gifted to teach and he taught for over a year at Antioch. The Word of God is very essential for the growth of a church. Encouragement combined with solid Teaching is the winning combination to create an environment conducive to growth. Am I encouraging my brothers and sisters? Am I teaching God's Word to them?
The people from Antioch were the first ones to be called Christians. Without a doubt, the name people gave the early believers is evidence that the community was Christ-centered. The encouragement was done in the name of Christ and the teaching was about the life, ministry, death, resurrection, and return of Christ. Is my life Christ-centered? Is my teaching Christ-centered? Is my encouragement done in the name of Christ?
We can't miss the supernatural work of the Spirit through Agabus - a prophet who foretold a famine in those days. And we can't miss the gracious response in giving to aid the believers in distress. Here is the other element that a healthy church needs: belief and practice of the gifts of the Spirit. A supernatural outlook on life through the eyes of the Spirit. The power of the church is in the operation of the spiritual gifts. Am I taking for granted the gifts of the Spirit? Am I using them to the max? Or am I hiding them in the closet? A healthy church will have the elements of encouragement and solid teaching as well as the operation of the gifts of the Spirit.
Father, may Faith Alliance be a church like Antioch, filled with encouragement, strong teaching, and the gifts of the Spirit. Help me be an encourager and teacher open to the supernatural work you desire to do. May our leadership team offer the gifts you have bestowed for the building of your church and the honor of your glory. Amen.
Barnabas was the emissary of choice because he was a good man, full of the Spirit and of faith. He was able to discern what the Spirit was doing among the people ("saw the grace of God") and rejoiced with them. He was also able to exhort or encourage the brethren "to remain faithful with steadfast purpose." Barnabas is an encourager. The work of the kingdom requires people who are able to encourage others to follow Christ with steadfast purpose. I want to be a Barnabas, an encourager of God's people! A man full of the Spirit and faith able to discern God's work among his people and able to celebrate with them. What keeps me down when I know deep down that I am an encourager?
Interestingly enough, encouragement is not enough and Barnabas was well aware of it. The church needs encouragement, but it is not enough to get it through the trials and tribulations of the day. The church needs strong teaching and Barnabas set out to find it in Saul. Saul was gifted to teach and he taught for over a year at Antioch. The Word of God is very essential for the growth of a church. Encouragement combined with solid Teaching is the winning combination to create an environment conducive to growth. Am I encouraging my brothers and sisters? Am I teaching God's Word to them?
The people from Antioch were the first ones to be called Christians. Without a doubt, the name people gave the early believers is evidence that the community was Christ-centered. The encouragement was done in the name of Christ and the teaching was about the life, ministry, death, resurrection, and return of Christ. Is my life Christ-centered? Is my teaching Christ-centered? Is my encouragement done in the name of Christ?
We can't miss the supernatural work of the Spirit through Agabus - a prophet who foretold a famine in those days. And we can't miss the gracious response in giving to aid the believers in distress. Here is the other element that a healthy church needs: belief and practice of the gifts of the Spirit. A supernatural outlook on life through the eyes of the Spirit. The power of the church is in the operation of the spiritual gifts. Am I taking for granted the gifts of the Spirit? Am I using them to the max? Or am I hiding them in the closet? A healthy church will have the elements of encouragement and solid teaching as well as the operation of the gifts of the Spirit.
Father, may Faith Alliance be a church like Antioch, filled with encouragement, strong teaching, and the gifts of the Spirit. Help me be an encourager and teacher open to the supernatural work you desire to do. May our leadership team offer the gifts you have bestowed for the building of your church and the honor of your glory. Amen.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Acts 9:26-31 Saul in Jerusalem
When Saul came back to Jerusalem, he had a hard time joining the disciples there because of his reputation as a persecutor and murderer of Christians. The disciples were afraid of him. They did not believe he was a believer and treated him with suspicion. Assimilation into the church body depends completely on my attitude towards new people in the church. Many newcomers find it difficult to join because my attitude towards them is suspicious or cold even critical. Some apprehension is understandable if a famous murderer shows at the door, but it is unacceptable to alienate that person for it. Didn't Christ die for him also? Worse, many people are alienated, not because they are murderers, but because they are not like me; they don't belong to my clique; they don't have a share in my history.
Thank God for Barnabas! He took time to get to know Saul and he introduced Saul to the apostles explaining his conversion experience and his ministry experience in Damascus. If it weren't for Barnabas, Saul probably would have given up on the church in Jerusalem and moved somewhere else! I want to be a Barnabas, a person who is interested in the newcomers of the church willing to listen to their personal stories and willing to introduce them to the leaders in the church. We need many Barnabas types in the church today. I have to realize that I am an ambassador of Christ to the newcomers and their assimilation into church life depends on my attitude and actions towards them.
After getting to know Saul, the Jerusalem church allowed him to minister among and along side them. The church gained a worker for the kingdom! Unfortunately, the Hellenist Jews wanted to kill him. When the church learned of the plot to kill Saul, they worked together to protect him taking him to Caesarea (on foot) and sending him to Tarsus (a boat ride). The church went from suspicion to protection; from mistrust to love; from coldness to kindness. I should be kind to newcomers because I never know who is going to be the next devoted worker to the kingdom - the next apostle Paul! I should be kind to newcomers because ultimately, they are part of the family of God - or potential candidates. I must treat newcomers as prospects and not suspects. And once they are a part of the family, I should do everything possible to protect them from harm.
The church multiplied! How? They had peace. The peace of God that surpasses all understanding and comes through prayer. They were being built up through the preaching and teaching of the Word. They were walking in the fear of the Lord. Not a fear of judgment, but a reverent awe and devotion to God with great care to please him in all their ways. They were also walking in the comfort of the Holy Spirit. There was still persecution going on and suffering was part of the daily lives of the believers there, but they were not alone. They walked seeking the Holy Spirit's power to sustain them in the midst of their trials and tribulations. If I want to see the church multiply today, I must also seek God's peace through prayer; I must look into the Word to be built up; I must walk in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Spirit.
Father, help me see the importance of newcomers in the church. May I open my heart to them to get to know them and help connect them with the church body. I want to see your church multiply! Fill me with your peace, build me up with your Word, and teach me to walk in your fear and the comfort of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
Thank God for Barnabas! He took time to get to know Saul and he introduced Saul to the apostles explaining his conversion experience and his ministry experience in Damascus. If it weren't for Barnabas, Saul probably would have given up on the church in Jerusalem and moved somewhere else! I want to be a Barnabas, a person who is interested in the newcomers of the church willing to listen to their personal stories and willing to introduce them to the leaders in the church. We need many Barnabas types in the church today. I have to realize that I am an ambassador of Christ to the newcomers and their assimilation into church life depends on my attitude and actions towards them.
After getting to know Saul, the Jerusalem church allowed him to minister among and along side them. The church gained a worker for the kingdom! Unfortunately, the Hellenist Jews wanted to kill him. When the church learned of the plot to kill Saul, they worked together to protect him taking him to Caesarea (on foot) and sending him to Tarsus (a boat ride). The church went from suspicion to protection; from mistrust to love; from coldness to kindness. I should be kind to newcomers because I never know who is going to be the next devoted worker to the kingdom - the next apostle Paul! I should be kind to newcomers because ultimately, they are part of the family of God - or potential candidates. I must treat newcomers as prospects and not suspects. And once they are a part of the family, I should do everything possible to protect them from harm.
The church multiplied! How? They had peace. The peace of God that surpasses all understanding and comes through prayer. They were being built up through the preaching and teaching of the Word. They were walking in the fear of the Lord. Not a fear of judgment, but a reverent awe and devotion to God with great care to please him in all their ways. They were also walking in the comfort of the Holy Spirit. There was still persecution going on and suffering was part of the daily lives of the believers there, but they were not alone. They walked seeking the Holy Spirit's power to sustain them in the midst of their trials and tribulations. If I want to see the church multiply today, I must also seek God's peace through prayer; I must look into the Word to be built up; I must walk in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Spirit.
Father, help me see the importance of newcomers in the church. May I open my heart to them to get to know them and help connect them with the church body. I want to see your church multiply! Fill me with your peace, build me up with your Word, and teach me to walk in your fear and the comfort of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
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