PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Acts 13:49-52
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.” (Acts 13:49)
How well do you know the word of the Lord?
If you are like most christians, you think I mean the bible.
But you can know the bible inside out, and not know the word of the Lord.
For the word of the Lord is the message of good news about Jesus.
It was not the bible that was spreading throughout the region.
There were few OT manuscripts available, and no bibles as we know them.
But people were hearing about, and talking about, Jesus!
How well do you know Jesus, and are you spreading news about him?
You can use the bible to help you talk about Jesus.
But knowing and speaking about Jesus is what matters most.
People need Jesus – not church, not the bible, not your doctrines.
We’ve been spreading too much religion and church, not enough Jesus.
If people knew who Jesus really was, I think more people would accept him.
There would be more joy and Holy Spirit if Jesus was our message (13:52).
PRAYER
Lord, knowing you gives me a sense of love and joy and peace that helps me navigate life with faith, hope and love. Help me spread the word, that others may share in this joy!
“They stirred up persecution”- Why did they do that? Why do people ridicule Christian’s today. Why do people swear in the name of Jesus? There is a sinister spirit that is trying to mitigate against the gospel. Yet Paul knew he had to move on – I suppose he could see that his public presentation stirred up more antagonism. Time to move more quietly and work with those who have become interested – in a more private like Nicodemus way! Lord help me to see that it is not popularity that we seek for you – but a change of hearts – that people might find you! Help me to be a blessing!