January 28, 2012

Acts 14:1-18 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 9:18-26, Psalm 21, Genesis 46-47

Journal Entry

Scripture

v. 3 so they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands. v.4 But the people of the city were divided;some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles. v.5 When an attempt was made by both gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, v.6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, v.7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.

Observation

Paul and Barnabas went to Iconium and there they entered the Jewish synagogue and spoke boldly the word of God. And great number of people came, heard the word of God, and they witnessed wonders and miracles as well. Even after witnessing wonders and miracles,people were divided and there were still unbelieving Jews and gentiles. As a result, Paul and Barnabas needed to flee from Iconium from persecution by the unbelieving crowds. It appears that Paul and Barnabas' journey to Iconium was one that was fruitful yet not without disappointments. Many came to know the gospel but many still remained in unbelief. However, I sensed that their mission was accomplished there as they were able to remain for a while to spread the gospel.

Application

I'm reminded of the praise song, "Christ in me is to live and to die is to gain~." It seemed like Paul and Barnabas entered the new mission field with this praise song in their heart. I felt the strong conviction and commitment that they had in today's message. They went to Iconium with Christ in their heart and mind. And they risked their life for the sake of gospel as they boldly spoke of the word of God. I sensed their heart reaching out to the people, sincerely desiring each and everyone of them to hear the word of God and be touched by the holy spirit. Even when they fled from persecution and moved onto other parts of the country, they continued their ministry and spread the gospel wherever they were able. As I enter my work place today, I want to consider it as "Iconium" where I need to be a good witness of Jesus Christ. Like Paul and baranbas, I pray that Christ is in me-he is felt in my words and action when I deal with people.

Prayer

Dear Lord, use me to be your instrument like Paul and Barnabas . May I be your witness to others in my words and action today. Help me to boldly speak about you to others.

--Esther Koh