SCRIPTURE:
At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed. But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the other Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders. The people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews, others with the apostles. There was a plot afoot among both Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. But they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding country, where they continued to preach the gospel.
Acts 14:1-7
OBSERVATION:
3 Lessons from 2 mighty men of God; PURPOSE, PERSERVERANCE and PRESERVATION.
APPLICATION:
1. PURPOSE. The word says Paul and Barnabas SPOKE EFFECTIVELY. There were a great number of both Jews and Greeks present and the duo made sure to use this opportunity wisely. Yes, some didn’t quite buy in, but a great number of them did. I believe a reasonable metric for effectiveness is success and by all accounts the 2 were successful.
If I am to seize opportunities I also need to speak and act with effectiveness and PURPOSE. A purposeful and simple presentation of Jesus Christ done in EFFECTIVE and creative ways will impact and transform lives.
So, God empty me of all my vain ambitions and poison of my pride; the need to sound wise instead of showing wisdom. Speak to me and through me that my life be a glory to Your name.
2.PERSERVERANCE. Paul and Barnabas SPENT CONSIDERABLE TIME there. They weren’t on a commando mission to get in and out. They were committed to win as many as possible for Jesus and comfortable with however long it took.
A simple presentation doesnʻt mean a quick one. Sometimes a “simple presentation” requires more time, thought, meditation and prayer than an elaborate event.
So, God grant me more PRESERVERANCE and patience in seeking Your will and obedience to the Holy Spirit.
3. PRESERVATION. Lastly, they CONTINUED TO PREACH THE GOSPEL. Only after hearing of the harm that would come upon them did the duo move on. They didn’t retreat, but rather regrouped and continued to preach the Gospel. Yes, Paul and Barnabas persevered through the disunity of those they ministered to, but they also were wise enough to move in when that action was necessary.
I need to continue to move forward no matter the cost, but I do need a discerning heart to know when moving forward means moving on to the next one.
PRAYER:
So, God grant me the wisdom to know when to hold ʻem and when to fold ʻem, but never losing heart or mission. To be a good steward and shepherd of PRESERVATION and welfare.
