So far, we've seen Paul face violent opposition, false accusations, unjust imprisonments, and now trials before authorities that have no interest in seeking justice for Paul. We see nothing but hardships and seemingly hopeless situations for Paul. Yet, these were the very opportunities God had set aside for Paul. Each time Paul was put on trial or was facing large crowds that have gathered against him, he had the opportunity to proclaim the Gospel. The loud and hysterically violent protesters were there to destroy Paul but I'm sure they also drew countless number of observers that had the chance to hear God whispering the Truth in their hearts. And soon, Paul will have the chance to go to Rome to face the highest authorities there where he will once again boldly proclaim God's message of salvation. I can't imagine how many lives were saved as people gathered to gawk at this fanatic wherever he went.
I truly admire Paul's determination and perseverance. One obstacle after another, as long as he had breath within him, Paul kept on preaching the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Not only that, his steadfast focus is quite remarkable. He moved like a missal that has only one target. No matter who or what stood in the way, he kept on towards only where God had aimed.
Something else that's remarkable is what moved the courts and the high authorities. Festus heard Paul's case and realized that Paul could be set free but he was more moved by the chance to win the favor of the Jews. This is no doubt a seed of political corruption. And the Jews themselves having heard the Truth of God, I wonder what was moving them so sharply against Paul. It brings to mind what Paul wrote in Eph 6:12 "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." I realized that if we are not moved by the Spirit of God, there are forces of evil that can move us from within with greed, pride, envy,to name just a few. It should not surprise anyone that this world is so broken though there are many "great" men and women leading this and other nations.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
thanks lynn for your very insightful reflection today. paul's integrity and fearless allegiance to the gospel contrasts sharply with the spineless, politically expedient leadership of festus. the book of acts is replete with figures like festus and felix who in their anxiety to please the jews, were willing to act unjustly. how many of us are like that: compromising in order to please others or to preserve our own reputations?
in complete contrast is paul, who used every civil right and legal means at his disposal to get to rome where, as lynn says, he "will face the highest authorities and once again boldly proclaim God's message of salvation". that we might all live like paul, who lived his life so purposefully for the gospel's sake!
Post a Comment