February 6, 2012

Acts 18:1-17 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 12:15-32, Psalm 27:7-14, Exodus 13-14

Journal Entry

Scripture

And many of the Corinthians hearing Paul believed and were baptized. 9 And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision, “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people.” 11 And he stayed a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

Observation

In this portion of Acts, Paul is shown consistently trying to persuade people that the Christ was Jesus. Whether it was to Jews or if not, then to Gentiles, Paul was persistent and focused in this mission. Whether in the midst of his "secular workplace" as a tentmaker or in the synagogue every Sabbath, through encounters with various and numerous people, Paul continues his zeal to let people know about Jesus. Paul is encouraged by God in a vision as well as by seeing many Corinthians and others coming to believe and baptized.

Application

Paul is a model of what it means to live for Jesus. Whether at his secular workplace or more familiar church setting, his focus and zeal to share about Jesus is something I can learn from and to imitate. He made no distinction between the two settings, in my case it would be my weekday work place and church on Sundays. As Paul was assured of his safety and encouraged to continue to speak, explaining that he was with many of God's people in the city, I feel assured and encouraged that I too am surrounded by many brothers and sisters in Christ. They give me strength and courage to live for Jesus.

Prayer

Lord,
Thank you so much for all that provide, especially all the brothers and sisters in Christ, whom you have placed in my life, that I may grow and mature, and to gain strength and courage from. I really feel blessed that you have placed me in the midst of all the fellow brothers and sisters to live out my faith, to learn from them, and to model after them, with one common purpose in mind, to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

--Peter K