SUNDAY November 19, 2023
Permission to Speak
But Paul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city; and I implore you, permit me to speak to the people.” So when he had given him permission, Paul stood on the stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying....
Acts 21:39-40
After Paul began to explain who he was––“I am a Jew from Tarsus, in Cilicia”––he was given the opportunity by the authority of the Roman commander to speak to the angry mob––to the many Jews who hated him. The crowd had just beaten him, and now he wanted to speak to them! Paul was courageous––brave.
The Apostle turned around, faced his audience, and motioned with his hand to quiet all the people. As they stopped shouting, there was a great silence; they were ready to hear what Paul had to say. All of a sudden, he went from speaking Greek to Hebrew. Paul always had a heart for the Jews, and he had such a desire to reach them with the Gospel. For now, he had their undivided attention.
This was Paul’s big moment––he would preach to his brethren! In the power of the Holy Spirit, Paul would be enabled to share his heart––his story of salvation. Although Paul had the right heart, it would backfire on him. His words would infuriate the Jews even more. In God’s sovereignty, Paul would remain safe. Sadly, Paul would once again recognize that God had called him to preach to the Gentiles.
Have you ever been given the opportunity to share your faith with someone whose heart was strongly opposed to your faith in Christ? It is difficult, and courage is needed. Be brave no matter the outcome. Let your testimony and the power of God’s Word prove to them how God has changed your life. Let your words sink into their hearts over time so that God can do a work in their lives through His Spirit.
Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.
~Billy Graham~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
