In the early Church, so many people were following Christ in Jerusalem that the disciples were overwhelmed with the needs of the people. Simply put, there were not enough of them to give the time necessary in order to minister adequately. As a result, their ministry suffered. They got bogged down in meeting physical needs and, thus, neglected the spiritual needs. Even the people recognized what was happening and voiced their complaints.
The disciples acknowledged the problem and suggested a solution. They
asked the people to choose seven men who would feed the widows, care for the
poor, and tend to the physical needs of the people, which would allow them to
continue preaching and praying. As a result of this teamwork, the Gospel
continued to spread.
One of those seven men was named Stephen. He distinguished himself
from the others, as he was “full of God’s grace and power and he was performing
miracles and signs among the people” (6:8). Not only had Stephen earned the admiration of
the Christians, he had caught the attention of the Jewish leaders. “None of
them was able to stand against the wisdom and Spirit by which Stephen spoke” (v.10). Soon, Stephen
was arrested and brought before the High Priest. When Stephen was allowed to
defend himself, he took the opportunity to charge his audience with betraying
Jesus and murdering Him. Of course, these men took offense at his accusations
and immediately ran him out of town and killed him.
The account of Stephen’s death highlights several noteworthy truths.
First, the lies of this world are exposed by the wisdom of God. Those who hold to
these lies are offended by truth. Second, when their sins, errors, and ignorance
are exposed, our enemies’ only recourse is to lash out at us, insult
us, and persecute us. However, the third truth is that, despite this persecution and
mistreatment, the Lord is honored and we are blessed.
Daily Reflection
Jesus once said, “God blesses you when are mocked and persecuted and
lied about because you are My followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a
great reward awaits you in heaven” (Matthew 5:10-12).
Why are these things easier said than done?
All of us want to be liked by people. No one intentionally sets
out to offend others; but the reality is that truth offends. We may be humble
and gentle with our words, but biblical principles, values, and teaching will
cause some to take offense.
What are we communicating to God when we avoid talking about Him, or
spiritual things, in order to avoid backlash, persecution, or offending others?
If you are true to God’s calling on your life, you will stand up and
speak out, and persecution will come. But, persecution is not a sign
that
you are doing something wrong; rather it is a sign that you are doing
something right.
BiAY.org | Daily Reflections Day 313 — 52 Days to Go
No comments:
Post a Comment