Daily Reading // Acts 21-22
(Find the daily reading on Pastor Jim’s Blog)
https://jholm5.wixsite.com/pastor-jim-blog
S // SCRIPTURE
Select a verse from today’s reading
Acts 21:20-23 (NKJV) 20 And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord. And they said to him, “You see, brother, how many myriads of Jews there are who have believed, and they are all zealous for the law; 21 “but they have been informed about you that you teach all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs. 22 “What then? The assembly must certainly meet, for they will hear that you have come.
O // OBSERVATION
Why did this verse get your attention? Make a simple observation from the text
After a great deal of ministry coupled with conflict everywhere he went, Paul returned to Jerusalem. He met there with the leaders of the church including James, the brother of Jesus.
Paul told them all about his ministry to the gentiles and the amazing things the Lord had done. They celebrated with him.
They also told him there were some with concerns about his ministry and his doctrine. They were upfront with him about the concerns. Paul listened to what they had to say.
A // APPLICATION
How can I apply this to my life today?
In a healthy environment things can be discussed openly. Things can be celebrated and concerns can be brought.
I like the way this interaction went. It’s hard to confront someone with concerns. They didn’t keep it in but shared it with Paul. Paul didn’t seem defensive about it. He didn’t say, “Do you know who I am??” It didn’t ruin their relationship or cause a rift.
Mature people with mature relationships can share in celebrations and in corrections. Both are necessary and important.
It may be hard to challenge someone, but it must be done - in love. It may be hard to hear less-than-positive input. No one is exempt from correction.
P // PRAYER
Express yourself in prayer
Father, Give me maturity to accept challenge and the courage to confront in love. Amen.
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