Choose JoySample

DAY 45 - JOY AND THE HOLY SPIRIT

Reflection: Acts 13 mostly consists of the account of Paul and Barnabas' visit to Pisidian Antioch (as opposed to Antioch of Syria) in central Turkey, where, as was their custom, they entered the Jewish synagogue and began to teach about Jesus.

In just eight sentences, Paul takes his listeners through the history of God's redemptive plan from the time of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob through to King David and onwards to the 'Saviour Jesus'. Those listening must have wondered what hit them, but there's more.

In another seven sentences, he explains that this Jesus was wrongly sentenced to death, then executed by Pilate before being raised from the dead, and being seen for 'many days' by his followers. 'We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus.' (Acts 13:32-33 NIV).

He continues to provide Scriptural (Old or First Testament) evidence of the authenticity of Jesus' resurrection and Messiahship, carefully addressing not only Jews by birth, but God-fearing Gentiles.

Many believe, but many others are jealous of and intimidated by this message, and soon persecution and opposition break out. Paul makes a chilling declaration: 'Since you reject it [the word of God] and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.' (Acts 13:46 NIV).

The Greek word translated worthy is axios and is the source of our English word axis. The fate of those listening to Paul was literally hanging in the balance. The only thing that could balance the scales in their favour was faith in Jesus. When it was found wanting, the scales were tipped and the opportunity passed.

No wonder that those who did believe, including many who were not Jews, were 'filled with joy and the Holy Spirit', despite the persecution that occurred. They realised that though they had nothing to offer on the scale of salvation, their simple faith and openness to the good news and Holy Spirit was enough.

Choose joy: Perhaps we take for granted the wonder of our salvation through faith. Maybe we fail to appreciate how our eternal destiny was balanced on a knife's edge. Do we forget those who have rejected Jesus and for who the moment of salvation has passed? The good news is there can be another moment - let's pray for those who need that opportunity.