Summertime StoriesSample

Acts 14:27  

27 Upon arriving in Antioch, they called the church together and reported everything God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles, too. 

Acts 14 gives three quick stories of Paul and Barnabas and their adventures as they spread the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. What can we learn from their experiences that can inform our own efforts to share Jesus with those around us?

First, we can be sure that God’s power will be there to confirm what we’re saying. We don’t have to worry how we’re going to convince people that Jesus is real. All we have to do is share what God has done in us and what He wants to do in them, and then we trust that the Holy Spirit will do the rest. When Paul and Barnabas preached, there were miracles, healings, and tremendous power present in their teaching and preaching. Don’t be afraid that you aren’t wise enough or talented enough or “spiritual” enough to share Jesus with others. The same power Paul and Barnabas had is available for anyone who steps out in faith to share the good news of Christ. 

Second, we can be sure that there will be opposition. Just as Paul and Barnabas saw success everywhere they went, they also encountered resistance from both Jews and Gentiles who were threatened by what God was doing. They were chased, beaten, stoned, and rejected as they tried to do what God told them to do, yet they refused to quit until the mission was finished. Let us be encouraged by their example. Even if those around us reject or despise the Lord and us, do not lose heart.

Finally, we know that God will have His way. Regardless of where they went or how people reacted, the testimony of Paul and Barnabas was that God did all that He wanted to do. The outcome of our ministry is in His hands, not ours. Let us be faithful to obey Him and His Word and trust that His power will be enough to reach anyone.

Pray today that the Lord would open your eyes to the opportunities around you to share the Gospel today. Ask Him for His power to confirm what you say and His provision to deal with those who reject the Word, then watch as He uses you to transform lives everywhere you go.