SUNDAY July 9, 2023
Spread the Gospel
On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they opposed the things spoken by Paul.
Acts 13:44-46
Multitudes of people came from the city to hear Paul and Barnabas teach the Word of God. The people showed great interest in the Word of God. What a great opportunity to reach almost the whole city! Think about it. One week prior in the synagogue, people had heard Paul and Barnabas preach. They, in turn, went out into the city witnessing to people. The next Sabbath, we see the results of their evangelism. Through the Holy Spirit, an amazing work of God had begun.
Notice what happened next. Jews that opposed the Gospel of grace became very envious when they saw the crowds of people listen to Paul preach. They deliberately contradicted his words. No doubt they wanted to bring Jews and proselytes interested in Christianity back into bondage to the Law.
Can you imagine if almost the entire city of Diamond Bar came out to hear the Word of God? That would be incredible! What do we need to do as believers? We need to witness to others and spread the Gospel. When we invite people to church, they hear the Gospel and may receive Christ.
Expect opposition as you step out by faith to witness to others. There is a spiritual battle for the souls of men:
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12).
What encouragement can you find for yourself in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, a gifted, young minister? But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry (2 Timothy 4:5). Keep sharing the Gospel––do not stop.
The gospel creates the church, which spreads the gospel, which creates more churches, which in turn spread the gospel further ad infinitum.
~John R.W. Stott~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
