Tuesday Devo
Scripture:
Acts 28
23 So a time was set, and on that day a large number of people came to Paul’s lodging. He explained and testified about the Kingdom of God and tried to persuade them about Jesus from the Scriptures. Using the law of Moses and the books of the prophets, he spoke to them from morning until evening. 24 Some were persuaded by the things he said, but others did not believe.
23 So a time was set, and on that day a large number of people came to Paul’s lodging. He explained and testified about the Kingdom of God and tried to persuade them about Jesus from the Scriptures. Using the law of Moses and the books of the prophets, he spoke to them from morning until evening. 24 Some were persuaded by the things he said, but others did not believe.
Commentary:
28:23 The content of Paul’s message was the kingdom of God and Jesus (see also v. 31). The kingdom represents the fulfillment of God’s saving promises to his people (see note on Matt. 12:28 on the kingdom of God). For the OT texts pointing to Jesus, see notes on Luke 24:44; 24:45; Acts 2:31; 3:11–26; 3:24.
28:24 On the Jews’ pattern of resistance (cf. 5:33; 7:51; 12:1; 13:45; 25:11), see note on Amos 4:6.
28:24 On the Jews’ pattern of resistance (cf. 5:33; 7:51; 12:1; 13:45; 25:11), see note on Amos 4:6.
Questions:
- Verse 24 says that some were persuaded by the things he said, while others were not. This has been a consistent theme throughout Paul's life and ministry. He is constantly seeking to persuade people and calling for a decision. How many of us are always on "go" in this way when it comes to our faith? When was the last time you actively tried to persuade someone with reason and logic that Jesus rose from the dead and is the only way to get to God? What would it look like for this to be the main thrust of your life and purpose?
- We can easily get discouraged when people aren't receptive to our message of hope. But we must remember that it is God who does the work in someone's heart to open their eyes to the truth of the gospel. We are supposed to do our part, and then He does His part. We are to share Jesus and pray for Him to make those seeds grow. Have you found yourself frustrated or discouraged when people aren't persuaded by your message? Is there anyone you need to be praying for that God would open their hearts to the gospel message?
Pray:
- That you would be faithful to share.
- That God would do the work only He can do.
This Week's City 7:
Try to commit to memory!
7. How can I trust that the Bible is still God’s Word today? I trust the Bible is still God’s Word today because Jesus rose from the dead, proving He was God and said His words would never pass away. Through the Holy Spirit, God inspired the writing of the Scripture, determined the canon of Scripture and protected the copying of Scripture so that we might know Him and worship Him to this day.
(Matthew 24:35; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:16-21; Revelation 22:18-19)
(Matthew 24:35; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:16-21; Revelation 22:18-19)
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