Ray W. – Feb 7, 2011
Scripture:
Acts 14: 4-7 The people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews, others with the apostles. 5 There was a plot afoot among the Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. 6 But they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding country, 7 where they continued to preach the good news.
Observation:
Paul and Barnabas, preaching to the Jews and Gentiles, found some of the people were hostile to them even though they were healing and performing miracles. The crowd was incited to stone the apostles. Paul and Barnabas had to flee. The disgruntled minority in the crowd persuaded the majority to act in a hateful manner.
Application:
Sounds like the modern world in some respects. Here in America we see a minority faction influence the majority. There are so many examples. Or consider Islamic extremists, a minority (I hope, and pray), acting out their jihad in spite of the majority. "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." (Edmund Burke)
Prayer:
Lord, my Savior and Redeemer, I pray that the world never sees another holocaust or anything like it. I pray that the good men of Your Kingdom will stand up when needed. Give us the strength to speak out and act when necessary. Watch over and protect Israel during these trying times in the Middle East.
I pray for our military men and women; keep them safe, let them know we appreciate their sacrifices. Thank You, Father, Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment