Good morning! Today, we will read the words that Paul used to conclude the account of his conversion story. If you wrote your conversion story, would people still see you as committed and submitted as the day you said yes to the Lord? Join me as we continue to read Paul’s words to the crowd in Jerusalem.

Bible verse – Acts 22:17-23

¹⁷ “After I returned to Jerusalem, I was praying in the Temple and fell into a trance. ¹⁸ I saw a vision of Jesus^[c] saying to me, ‘Hurry! Leave Jerusalem, for the people here won’t accept your testimony about me.’

¹⁹ “‘But Lord,’ I argued, ‘they certainly know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believed in you. ²⁰ And I was in complete agreement when your witness Stephen was killed. I stood by and kept the coats they took off when they stoned him.’

²¹ “But the Lord said to me, ‘Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles!’”

²² The crowd listened until Paul said that word. Then they all began to shout, “Away with such a fellow! He isn’t fit to live!” ²³ They yelled, threw off their coats, and tossed handfuls of dust into the air.” – Acts 22:17-23 NLT

Reflection

The Lord gave Paul instructions immediately after his conversion and Paul obeyed. Paul went on several missionary journeys. On those journeys many Gentiles were converted, but also Jewish people who believed were too. Paul, at the direction of the Lord shared the Good News of Jesus Christ and opened opportunities for all people to convert – to believe and accept Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

In today’s verses, the people in the crowd were angry with the fact that the Lord directed Paul to share the message of Jesus Christ, but additionally because it was shared with the Gentiles, who represent any group who is not Jewish. Note, there are no racial barriers in Christ Jesus.

Sisters and brothers, let us not be a hindrance to those who desire to know about the Savior. The Lord our Savior was dispised and rejected. Paul was rejected as well. I am almost certain when you share the Good News with others that you may have moments of rejection too. The key – remain focused on the Lord and what He has called you to do.

Sisters and brothers – remain obedient, stay committed and expand the kingdom.

Prayer

Father God, thank you for your willingness to send your son Jesus to save us. Lord, thank you for the opportunity to partner with you, to share the Good News with others, to pray for others, and to comfort one another. Lord, there is no one greater than you. Lord, we surrender our will to you today and accept the call you have placed on our lives. Lord, we do not desire personal glory, we want to bring glory to your name. Lord, equip us and transform us into who you have called us to be. Lord, remove our doubts and fears, give us boldness to glorify your name, and transform us daily. Lord, reignite the fire and passion we have for you. In Jesus name, amen.

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Bible Reference: http://biblegateway.com

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