August 9, 2021 - Acts 17:1-9

Two of our children have just moved their families to new homes. Being willing to change is a difficult decision for a lot of people. The comfort of having a routine and knowing what is expected each day can make it uncomfortable and challenging when change is thrust upon us.

Paul traveled presenting a message of change which created controversy and division in each place the team trekked on their journeys. The message of Christ was so divisive that riots broke out and cities were divided all because of the message of the Savior that Paul proclaimed. As was his practice, Paul traveled to the larger cities and went first to the synagogues where he found devout Jews and gentiles that were interested in the scriptures. Paul would then present the death and resurrection of Christ which evoked reactions of envy, jealousy and hatred for the team and the message. The Jews obviously felt threatened and offended that someone would declare and bring accusation that they had arranged and killed the Son of God. Further, that many would find the message attractive enough to follow whole heartedly was disconcerting and puzzling to the Jewish leaders.

In proclaiming this message, Paul presented the gospel message using four methods of presentation (vv.2-3). First, he reasoned, or used a question-and-answer format with the Jewish audience about the Old Testament. Secondly, he explained or opened the same scriptures to them about Christ and His life. Paul then proved that Jesus was the Messiah from the scriptures that they themselves studied. Lastly, Paul carefully announced the death and resurrection of Christ and called for repentance and obedience to the risen Savior.

After several weeks in the synagogue, Paul and the team moved out and continued to proclaim the message of Christ to the city. This culminated with a riot and accusation of them being responsible for the world being turned upside down (v.6). Since Thessalonica was a Roman free city and Caesar and his decrees were followed closely, the rulers and prominent people were disturbed enough to investigate the cause of all this upheaval. Paul’s proclamation of Jesus as another king (v.7) and the need to follow Him stimulated the recognition in many that a change was necessary.

When Christ is depicted clearly and factually, a crisis occurs. Individuals are presented with a decision to accept this truth or disregard it. This leads to heightened emotions and possible discord between loved ones. Times of prayer making intercession for loved ones and their sensitivity to the Spirit is vital. Pray specifically for someone you know that has rejected the truth of the gospel in the past. In addition, pray that God would open their heart to hear and respond to Him.

With an expectant hope,

Pastor Miller