The Book of Acts: Turn Your World Upside DownNäide

Today’s Devotional:

In chapter 14, we find Paul and Barnabas continuing their work of preaching about Jesus. In one sense, they experience a typical result: many people believe, some don’t, and they face death threats and move on.

In Lystra, the pattern is changed. They don’t preach in the Jewish synagogues like normal. Instead, their ministry is kickstarted with a healing of a lame man. This gets the people's attention, but they mistake Paul and Barnabas for Greek gods, causing them to play catch-up in their preaching. Paul and Barnabas become worship figures while trying to persuade the crowds not to sacrifice offerings to them. This passage is striking because it’s a reminder of how easily people can be misguided. Here the people misinterpret the work of God and connect it with what they know in their culture. In our world, we can see people trade the work of the Spirit for positivity and good vibes.

The end result of this almost comical scene is quite tragic for Paul. Opposition from their last two tour stops arrives to turn the crowd against them. They went from being celebrated to fearing for their lives. Paul is beaten and left for dead, yet he gets up, returns to town, and leaves the next day to keep at his preaching tour. We love stories where athletes have to fight through adversity, but Paul’s resolve is unmatched.

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Today’s devotional was written by Pastor Daniel Roach.

Questions to Consider:

• Do you recognize the work of the Spirit in your life? If God’s not active in your life, what needs to change?
• Do you have a sense of purpose in your work? What would a sense of zeal for the Good News mean in your life?

Prayer:

Father, you have called us to go and make disciples. You promise that your Spirit is with us. Help us to see where you are working in and around us. Give us the courage to partner with you and join the work of your Kingdom. Amen.