Scripture text for Tuesday, April 20th, 2010: Acts 13:1-14:28
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My NIV commentary sums up the Book of Acts as a drama construction that delays introduction of the hero until the stage is finally set. Beginning in chapter 13, the spotlight in Acts moves from Peter to Paul (Saul) and follows him throughout the rest of the book. The story unfolds with Paul’s response to the Holy Spirit’s prompting—he is called to teach in opposition to the Jewish dignitaries—and he does it. As a result of his obedience, thousands are led to Christ. The commentary explains it like this:
“Paul spearheaded the campaign to grant Gentiles full acceptance without subjecting them to Jewish law. He had himself been liberated from bondage to confining laws, and he insisted on a life based on God’s free forgiveness, not legalism.
During his journeys, Paul wrote half the New Testament books, and in them he laid the groundwork for much of Christian theology. All the while, he carried on a courageous career despite jailings, beatings, and riots. He was perhaps the most thoroughly converted man who ever lived.”
We are all trudging along on individual spiritual journeys. Like Paul, because we believers have received the Holy Spirit, we are empowered and called to share our faith with others. Such opportunities come naturally as paths cross and life simply happens. Armed with scripture and the soft whispers, gentle prods, and unexplainable yearnings of the Holy Spirit, we too are dramatic constructions designed for the purpose of spreading the gospel. Together, let’s not waste a single moment, okay?
Devotion prepared by Linda Bogan