Today we are reading Acts 14. In this chapter we we continue to read about Paul’s First Missionary Journey. “But Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and having persuaded the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city, and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe. When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.” Acts 14:19-23 ESV So the opposition to Paul’s work was very violent. It is always amazed me that Paul could endure such great physical punishment and remain undeterred from his mission. And can you imagine the impact on the new believers! He was beaten to a pulp and yet he got up and re-entered the city. Later he states that as Christians we must go through many tribulations for our faith. What have you endured for Jesus? Have you ever considered giving up your faith? How are others who observe your perseverance encouraged in their faith? May God bless you with the strength of Paul as you live your life for Jesus. Pastor Tim
