Acts - Until Everyone Knowsਨਮੂਨਾ

Acts 22

Paul has an opportunity to tell the story of his conversion and calling to a crowd in Jerusalem. In it, he very deliberately details his impeccable Jewish credentials, ancestry, education, lifestyle, zealous acts for the upholding of the Law, aligning himself with the emotions of the crowd.

But the answer to his question, “Who are you, Lord?” was, “I am Jesus of Nazareth!” Ananaias had then explained to Paul that “the God of our ancestors has chosen you to know His will, to see the Righteous One and hear His own voice because, 'You will be a witness to all the world'” (vs. 14-15). Paul relates that as he was praying in the Temple, Jesus had come to him in a vision, warning him to get out of Jerusalem because his testimony would be unacceptable to them!

And then comes the inflammatory statement: “Go, I will send you far away to the Gentiles” (v. 21). This is the spark that galvanizes the mob into a frenzy. This they cannot accept because Paul’s message is that Jew and Gentile are equally precious to God, who has provided a way of Salvation for both. The Jews believed that only they were chosen by God.

Are your roots strong and your faith deep? How does your understanding of Salvation through Jesus Christ enable you to embrace others with the Message of Grace that the Gospel brings for everyone? Ask God to enlarge your vision and compassion for all to come to know Him as Savior.

Lord, I thank You for strong roots in my faith. Help me to reach out with the Message of Salvation so that everyone will know Your Compassion for them personally. Amen.

Anne Enoch