Sun 9:30a Class; 10:30a Worship; 11:35a Communion
Bible Bites
Waiting for an Opening
“After the reading of the Law and the Prophets, the synagogue officials sent to them saying, ‘Brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say it.’” (Acts 13:15)
When Paul and his traveling companions came to Antioch Pisidia, they went into the synagogue and sat down. Paul waited to be asked to speak before diving straight into his explanation of Jesus. This example illustrates what Peter commanded, that we “be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you…” (1 Peter 3:15). Paul waited patiently and preparedly for the door of opportunity to be opened and then he spoke, and that patience bore fruit because the end result was that the people begged to hear more the next Sabbath (see Acts 13:42).
There is room for tact and diplomacy in our sharing of the gospel. It is the balance between being ready and being rude. Can you imagine if Paul had walked into the synagogue and just started speaking, interrupting their regular service… I doubt the reaction would have been so positive. There is a time to be silent and a time to speak (Eccl 3:7). God expects us to be strategic, thoughtful, and prepared. We need to pray for and use wisdom in our evangelistic efforts.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Acts 13:13-21
Questions to ask:
- How does this show the continuation of Jesus’ work now going on in the church?
- How is the gospel, Paul’s preaching, and/or Paul’s defense received?
- What is the Holy Spirit doing in this text?
- What in our reading shows how Paul handled adversity and difficulty?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision
