New Testament in a Year

Acts 22:17-23:10
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Today at the end of Acts 22 Paul threw out this incendiary statement that shocked the crowd:  “”But the Lord said to me, `Leave Jerusalem, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles!’”  This reminds me that the Gospel today still shocks people.  The Gospel is still moving forward in our world to people that we sometimes may not think “deserve” it, like this crowd didn’t think the Gentiles deserved relationship with “their” God of Israel.  God is bigger than we think He is.  God is pursuing the whole world.  Let us pray he continues to shock crowds like he did in Acts 22…  It’s so interesting – looking at this image below of Paul’s presence and words creating chaos in a crowd and the Roman guards being there in the midst.  This is so reminiscent of Jesus’ final day in Jerusalem before he walked up the hill to Golgotha.  Think Paul was emulating his Savior?  How about you?  Are you emulating your Savior?  Or are you playing it safe?

We can see Paul’s wisdom at work in today’s Acts readings!  First he shares at the appropriate time that he is a Roman citizen – by birth – which means he cannot be punished until proven guilty.

Then, before the High Council he wisely throws out in Acts 23 verse 6 – “”Brothers, I am a Pharisee, as were all my ancestors! And I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead!”  This instantly divides the Pharisees and Sadducees at the council – and allows things to get heated enough that the soldiers take Paul out of the council for his safety.  Bible.org’s fantastic look at “Paul’s Trial before the Sanhedrin” is at this link.

Worship Video: Today’s readings reminds me of the song “I’ve Always Loved You” by Third Day:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nYmMlrbCL8

Do you know One who has always loved you? Click here for Love!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

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