BULLETIN ARTICLE – 23 December 2018
The book of Acts is about the spread of the gospel of Jesus stretching from Jerusalem to Rome. At the close of the book of Acts, there are three points about “gospel workers” for us to consider.
1. God encourages “gospel workers” with fellow Christians
After leaving Malta, Apostle Paul and his team members continued their journey to Rome stopping by Syracuse before arriving at Rhegium. They went to Puteoli where they met Christians who extended great hospitality, inviting them to stay for 7 days. Upon leaving Puteoli for Rome, they met with Christians who travelled long distances from Appius and the Three Taverns to meet them. These Christians extended hospitality, kinship and support for Paul. He knew that they were sent to him from God. He was much encouraged by such displays of love and support for his labour for the gospel’s advancement. Questions for us to consider: Who around you are working hard for the gospel’s sake? How can you encourage them? Who has God sent to encourage you as you serve him? Take time to thank God for this gospel support and encouragement.
2. “Gospel workers” are blameless before men and yet are different
Paul appeared before the local Jewish leaders in Rome, explaining his case to them. He was in chains only because of the hope of Israel he spoke of. They had not received any ill reports about him but only heard about his controversial “sect” and desired to hear from him. Paul strived to keep his conscience clear before God and people. Gospel workers words and actions are to be blameless. However, their different words and actions usually receive a lot of resistance. Gospel workers are prepared to die to proclaim Jesus as “The Way” showing the reality of this hope. They speak boldly of Jesus everywhere. Such words and actions can cause friction yet they piqued the Jews interest to hear Paul out. Question for you to consider: Are your words and actions blameless? Do they show of your hope in Jesus? Do your daily conversations testify of him?
3. “Gospel workers” receive mixed responses
Paul went on to testify to all in Rome about Jesus and received mixed responses. Some believed his message and some did not. The Holy Spirit had foretold this situation through the prophet Isaiah. People will hear the gospel but never understand, see but never perceive owing to their dull hearts, failing eyes and closed ears. When we share the gospel, we must come to terms that some will believe and some will not. We should not get discouraged thinking that responses hinged on how persuasive or charismatic or relevant we are. It is a spiritual work where only God can make the gospel seed grow. There are two implications for this. Firstly, we faithfully strive to share the gospel for 2, 20 or 200 years, and not hinge our faithfulness on the hearers responses. Secondly, we fervently pray and ask the Lord to open eyes, ears and hearts that the people may turn to God and believe in Jesus.
