Topic: Peddlers of idols!
Opening Prayer: Dear Lord, may the entrance of your word bring light and life to all I will do today.
Scripture: Acts 19:21-41
Question(s) for Reflection
Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
Outline: Paul’s ministry in Ephesus resulted in many people following ‘The Way’. This was how Christianity was referred to then. Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen appear to be defending Artemis, their idol, but notice the real motive for their uproar (vs.25-27). A lot of evil is done in the name of religion and patriotism.
People, especially our politicians, hide their selfish motives behind their masks of good causes. But this should not be the case for Christians who are accountable to God who sees our motives and deepest secrets (see Hebrews 4:13). Notice Paul’s intention and the counsel he received (vs.30-31 but compare 21:10-14).
There is time to carry our cross and face opposition and persecution squarely (Matthew 16:24- 26) but there is also a time to ‘shake the dust off your feet and leave the home or city’ (Matthew 10:11-14). We need the Spirit’s guidance to take the right decision. Thank God for the wisdom and forthrightness of the city clerk.
He wisely identified the real reason behind the action of Demetrius and his fellow tradesmen and diffused the tension promptly. We need such forthright and wise leaders today, leaders who by their action will expose the lies and pretences of people.
Practice/Word Application
What Next: Does the fact that nothing is hidden from God affect the way you behave?
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
•Pray that whatever you do is from a pure motive and not out of greed for money or
•Pray for revival of Christians to personal witnessing and that the witness of the Church worldwide will never be muffled; pray for Church budgets to reflect Kingdom
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Psalm 1121:1-3; 1 Chron. 13-15; Luke 1:57-80
Read Joseph Prince 15 November 2021 – Discernment And Wisdom
Scripture Union Daily Guide 15 November 2021. Scripture Union is an international, interdenominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.
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