Read: Acts 17:1-9
But the Jews, being moved with jealousy, took unto them certain vile fellows of the rabble, and gathering a crowd, set the city on an uproar.Acts 17:5
Good Morning!
As I read the Bible, I often contemplate how the Word would be received in today's world, striving to understand its contextual implications. We often question why certain people, like the Pharisees or some Jews, did not receive the Gospel from Christ himself or from the disciples who were spreading the Gospel and performing miracles. In real-time, they witnessed it. As Christians today, we read and accept it as the truth.
In Acts 17:1-9, Paul, Silas, and Timothy were continuing their mission to spread the gospel, after their release from prison. Paul took every measure necessary to come into town and present himself and the Gospel accordingly. First, he met with the Jews. He ministered and taught on three Sundays. Due to the teachings, Paul attracted a multitude of devout Greeks and led women to follow the Gospel.
Many Jews were not persuaded. They became envious, formed a mob, and caused an uproar. They wanted to run Paul and his crew out of the city. Unable to locate Paul, they seized a man named Jason, accusing him of being the instigator behind the city's chaos.
Today's society behaves no differently. An uproar occurs when something contradicts our true beliefs. Even when it may be the truth, committees, organizations, and government parties align to stand against it and cause an uproar. They try to turn things upside down.
Not everyone is meant to receive God's word. Jesus knew many would not be receptive to his message, thus the reason he spoke in parables (Matthew 13:34-35). In Matthew 13:20-22, Jesus also compared his words to seeds, which could fall on various types of ground - stony, weeds, and fertile. Some will be glad to hear the word but it will not go down deep in their hearts, because when hard times come they will forget Christ. There will be those who fall into the weeds. Because they prioritize worldly pursuits, their belief will be short-lived due to being easily overwhelmed and choked out.
Every year should be a year of growth. You will observe and experience different things throughout the year. Whatever that may be study and get an understanding. Don't take it for face value.
God's word is particularly significant. As you listen to your pastors or preachers on television as you read these devotions, pull out your bible, and study what you hear and read. Make sure it aligns with God's word as it has been written. Follow the Gospel like the multitude who believed; do not be like the mob who sought to destroy it.
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