Acts 18: When Others Reject The Gospel

Finding Peace When Others Reject the Gospel

Have you ever tried to share your faith with someone who just wasn't interested? Perhaps you've experienced the heartbreak of watching a loved one reject the message of Jesus despite your best efforts. This painful situation raises an important question: When should we continue sharing, and when should we walk away?

When Sharing the Gospel Becomes Difficult

In Acts 18, we find the Apostle Paul facing this exact dilemma. After arriving in Corinth and working as a tentmaker with Aquila and Priscilla, Paul began devoting himself fully to preaching when Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia.

"When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. But when they opposed Paul, they became abusive. He shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, 'Your blood be on your own heads. I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.'" (Acts 18:5-6)

This moment represents a turning point. Paul had been faithfully sharing the gospel with his fellow Jews, using Scripture to show how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies about the Messiah. He pointed to approximately 300 different Old Testament passages that pointed to Jesus, including:

1. Jesus being a descendant of King David (2 Samuel)

2. Coming from the tribe of Judah (Genesis)

3. Arriving before the second destruction of the temple (Daniel)

4. His suffering, death, and resurrection (Isaiah)

Despite this evidence, many rejected his message and became hostile toward him.

Why Do We Keep Trying When People Reject the Gospel?

What drives us to continue sharing our faith even when faced with rejection? For Paul, there were several motivations:

1. A Sense of Responsibility

In Ezekiel 33:8-9, God says:

"When I say to the wicked, 'You wicked person, you will surely die,' and you do not speak to dissuade them from their ways, that wicked person will die for their sin, but I will hold you accountable for their blood. But if you do warn the wicked person to turn from their ways and they do not do so, they will die for their sin, though you yourself will be saved."

Paul felt this responsibility deeply. He knew the truth about salvation through Jesus and couldn't bear the thought of people perishing without hearing it.

2. Love for His People

Romans 10:1 reveals Paul's heart: "Brothers and sisters, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved."

Like Jesus who wept over Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37), Paul had a deep love for his fellow Jews. This love drove him to continue sharing despite the risk of rejection and even physical harm.

When Is It Time to Walk Away?

Looking at Paul's pattern throughout Acts, we find that his decision to move on wasn't based on a specific timeframe but on the condition of people's hearts.

In Acts 19:8-9, we see this pattern clearly: "Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them."

The turning point came when people:

1. Became obstinate in their hearts

2. Refused to believe

3. Publicly maligned the gospel

When hearts hardened to this degree, Paul would redirect his efforts toward those who were more receptive.

The Wisdom of Protecting What Is Sacred

Jesus taught in Matthew 7:6, "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces."

This isn't about labeling people as animals but about protecting what is precious. Just as you wouldn't give something valuable to someone who doesn't recognize its worth, there comes a point when continuing to share the gospel with someone who consistently rejects and disrespects it becomes unwise.

The gospel is precious—it's the most beautiful message we have to share. When someone repeatedly treats it with contempt, it may be time to direct our efforts elsewhere.

What Happens When We Redirect Our Efforts?

Interestingly, whenever Paul redirected his efforts, revival followed:

"Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God. Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard Paul believed and were baptized." (Acts 18:7-8)

By focusing on those whose hearts were open, Paul saw tremendous fruit. In Ephesus, his redirection led to a two-year ministry where "all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord" (Acts 19:10).

How Should We Approach Those Who Reject the Gospel?

1. Never give up hope - We continue to believe God can do anything, including softening the hardest heart.

2. Don't push them away - Maintain loving relationships even when they reject your message.

3. Don't judge them - Remember Jesus' warning about judging others.

4. Don't become "the ugly Christian" - Treat people with respect and love, even when they disagree.

5. Recognize you're not their savior - Only Jesus can save them; you're just the messenger.

6. Trust God's timing - Everyone's journey to faith is different.

Life Application

This week, I challenge you to:

1. Evaluate your approach: Are you continuing to push the gospel on someone who has clearly shown they're not receptive? Consider whether it might be time to step back while maintaining a loving relationship.

2. Look for open doors: Who in your life might be more receptive to hearing about Jesus? Instead of focusing all your energy on those who reject your message, redirect some effort toward those who might be waiting for someone to share with them.

3. Pray for wisdom: Ask God to show you when to speak and when to be silent, when to persist and when to redirect.

4. Trust God with your loved ones: If you have family members who reject the gospel, release the burden of being their savior. Continue to love them, pray for them, and trust that Jesus is still knocking on their door.

Ask yourself:

1. Am I treating the gospel as something precious when I share it?

2. Have I been trying to be someone's savior instead of trusting God with their salvation?

3. Who in my life might be more receptive to hearing about Jesus that I've been overlooking

4. How can I maintain loving relationships with those who reject my message?

Remember, we never give up on people because we never stop believing that God can do anything. But sometimes, the most loving thing we can do is to respect their choice while continuing to pray that God will work in their hearts in His perfect timing.

2nd Thessalonians 3: True Peace in a Chaotic World

Finding True Peace in a Chaotic World: Lessons from 2 Thessalonians

Have you ever experienced a moment of perfect peace? Perhaps you were on vacation, lying in a hammock, or simply waking up one morning feeling that all was right with the world. These moments can be precious but fleeting. What if there was a way to experience peace that transcends circumstances—a peace that remains even when life gets difficult?

What is Biblical Peace?

In 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18, the Apostle Paul concludes his letter with these powerful words:

"Now may the Lord of Peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all."

This wasn't just a casual sign-off. Paul was writing to a church experiencing persecution and confusion. They were hurting and needed reassurance. His prayer for them reveals something profound about peace it's not just the absence of trouble but something deeper and more lasting.

Why Does Paul Keep Mentioning "Grace and Peace"?

If you've read Paul's letters, you've likely noticed how frequently he mentions "grace and peace." This pairing appears at the beginning or end (sometimes both) of nearly all his letters. Peter and John use similar greetings in their writings as well.

When something appears repeatedly in Scripture, it signals importance. But why these two concepts specifically?

The Ancient Blessing Behind Paul's Words

To understand Paul's emphasis on peace, we need to look at his Jewish upbringing. Throughout his childhood and into adulthood, Paul would have regularly heard the priestly blessing from Numbers 6:22-26:

"The Lord bless you and keep you;

The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;

The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."

This blessing was spoken over the Israelites at religious festivals, during sacrifices, and at significant life moments. It was deeply embedded in Jewish culture and continues to be used in Jewish services today.

The blessing contains three mentions of God's name (Jehovah/Yahweh), emphasizing that only God can truly provide blessing, grace, and peace. This repetition communicates an essential truth: these gifts come exclusively from God, not from other sources.

What Does Biblical Peace Really Mean?

In our American culture, we often think of peace as a feeling—the absence of anxiety or conflict. But the Hebrew concept of peace (shalom) is much richer. It's not primarily about emotions but about wholeness, completeness, and fulfillment.

When God gives peace, He's not just calming our emotions temporarily; He's making us whole. He's addressing our deepest need—to be right with Him. This peace is part of our identity in Christ, not just a fleeting emotional state.

The Difference Between Old Testament and New Testament Peace

Under the Old Testament law, the blessing of peace was conditional. Deuteronomy 11:26-28 makes this clear:

"See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse—the blessing if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today; the curse if you disobey the commands of the Lord your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known."

The peace offered through the law could be lost through disobedience. But through Christ, something revolutionary happened. Romans 5:1 tells us:

"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Through faith in Jesus, we receive a peace that isn't dependent on our perfect obedience. It's secured by Christ's perfect sacrifice. This is why Paul calls Jesus "the Lord of Peace"—because only through Him can we find true, lasting peace with God.

What Steals Our Peace?

If this peace is available to us, why do we struggle to experience it? Several things can rob us of peace:

1. Unresolved sin - Sin creates distance between us and God. Bringing our sin to the cross is the only way to find peace.

2. Worldly distractions - Pursuing wealth, power, or pleasure as substitutes for peace only leaves us emptier.

3. Self-reliance - The message that "you can handle anything on your own" isolates us from God and others.

4. Worry and fear - Anxiety steals peace, but prayer restores it (Philippians 4:4-7).

5. Counterfeit community - Social media and superficial connections can't replace authentic relationships in Christ.

How Do We Find True Peace?

True peace begins with peace with God through Jesus Christ. When we understand that the greatest problem in our lives—our separation from God—has been solved through Christ's death and resurrection, we can experience peace regardless of our circumstances.

This doesn't mean we'll never face difficulties or emotional turmoil. But it does mean we have an anchor for our souls—a relationship with the Lord of Peace himself who promises to be with us always.

Life Application

This week, I challenge you to pursue true peace by:

1. Identifying your peace stealers - What specific things distract you from experiencing God's peace? Is it unresolved sin, worldly distractions, self-reliance, worry, or counterfeit community?

2. Surrendering them to Jesus - Take these peace stealers to the cross. Confess them, release them, and receive God's grace.

3. Remembering your identity - Peace isn't primarily a feeling; it's knowing who you are in Christ—complete, forgiven, and loved.

4. Practicing God's presence - Set aside time each day to be still before God, remembering that He is with you and for you.

Ask yourself:

1. Where am I seeking peace apart from Christ?

2. What worries am I holding onto instead of surrendering to God?

3. How might my life look different if I truly believed that the Lord of Peace wants to give me peace at all times and in every way?

Remember, peace isn't the absence of trouble—it's the presence of Christ in the midst of whatever you face. May the Lord of Peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

2nd Thessalonians 3: Pray For Your Leaders

Praying for Church Leadership: Why It's Essential for Gospel Advancement

When was the last time you prayed specifically for your church leaders? Not just a quick "bless the pastor" prayer, but intentional, strategic prayer for those on the front lines of gospel work? The truth is, many of us don't realize how crucial our prayers are for those in spiritual leadership positions.

Why Church Leaders Need Your Prayers

Church leaders stand on the front lines of spiritual warfare every day. They're not just planning services and delivering sermons - they're actively engaged in a spiritual battle for the advancement of the gospel.

The Apostle Paul understood this reality clearly. Throughout his letters, he doesn't merely ask for prayer - he commands it. In 2 Thessalonians 3:1-3, Paul writes:

"As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people. For not everyone has faith, but the Lord is faithful and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one."

This wasn't a casual request. Paul understood something vital about ministry that we often miss.

What Drives the Urgency for Prayer?

A Life Transformed by Jesus

Paul lived with tremendous urgency about the gospel because his own life had been completely transformed by Jesus. Once a Pharisee who would have considered Gentiles unclean, Paul's entire worldview shifted when he encountered Christ. His life goals, definition of success, and understanding of his purpose were all radically changed.

The Imminent Return of Christ

Paul also lived with the tension of believing Jesus could return at any moment. This created a laser-focused urgency to ensure everyone had the opportunity to hear about Jesus before His return.

The Spiritual Battle Behind Gospel Work

In Ephesians 6:12, Paul reveals what church leaders are truly up against:

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

When we pray for our church leaders, we're joining them in this spiritual battle. Paul makes this clear in Romans 15:30:

"I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me."

Notice how Paul invokes the name of Jesus - the same way the apostles would when casting out demons or calling for healing. This isn't casual "Christianese" - it's a recognition of the spiritual power needed for gospel advancement.

What Happens When We Pray for Church Leaders?

When we pray for those leading our churches, several things happen:

1. Doors open for the gospel - "Pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message" (Colossians 4:3)

2. Words are given - "Pray also for me that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel" (Ephesians 6:19)

3. Spiritual forces are overcome - Our prayers join the struggle against "spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12)

4. The gospel advances with power - "Pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored" (2 Thessalonians 3:1)

As commentator David Guzik notes: "It makes us wonder how often the work of God's word is hindered by our prayerlessness."

How to Pray for Your Church Leaders

Church leaders - pastors, elders, ministry directors, and staff - often walk into enemy territory. They deal with sin, relational issues, and spiritual strongholds that need to be broken by Jesus. They need your prayer support. If you didn’t get the insert from this week’s bulletin, please reach out so we can get it to you. It includes a list of church staff and elders and how you can be praying for them

Here are specific ways to pray for them:

1. Pray for open doors - Ask God to create opportunities for the gospel to be shared (Colossians 4:3)

2. Pray for boldness - Ask that they would speak fearlessly and clearly (Ephesians 6:19-20)

3. Pray for protection - Ask that they would be delivered from wicked and evil people (2 Thessalonians 3:2)

4. Pray for effective ministry - Ask that their message would spread rapidly and be honored (2 Thessalonians 3:1)

5. Pray for joy in their work - "Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden" (Hebrews 13:17)

Life Application

The spiritual battle for gospel advancement requires all of us to participate through prayer. This week, I challenge you to:

1. Set a specific time to pray for your church leaders. Perhaps set an alarm on your phone as a weekly reminder.

2. Pray with purpose using Scripture as your guide. Use passages like Ephesians 6:19-20, Colossians 4:3, and 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2.

3. Let your leaders know you're praying for them. A simple note of encouragement can provide tremendous strength.

4. Examine your prayer life - Have you been treating prayer as "Christianese" - something you say but don't follow through on? Ask God to renew your commitment to meaningful prayer.

Ask yourself: How might the gospel advance more powerfully in my church and community if I committed to regular, intentional prayer for those on the front lines? What spiritual battles might be won if I joined the struggle through prayer? How can I move beyond casual "I'll pray for you" statements to genuine, consistent intercession?

Remember, when you pray for your church leaders, you're not just supporting them - you're actively participating in the advancement of God's kingdom on earth.

2nd Thessalonians 2: The Enemies Lie

Standing Firm Against Deception: Recognizing the Enemy's Lies

In a world filled with deception, how can we stand firm in our faith? The enemy is constantly working to pull us away from Christ with the same old lie he's been using since the Garden of Eden. Understanding this deception is crucial for every believer who wants to remain steadfast in their faith.

What is the greatest deception we face as Christians?

Paul warns in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 about "the coming of the lawless one" who "will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie." This isn't just any lie—it's "the lie" that Satan has been telling since the beginning.

The enemy's deception is powerful. Jesus Himself warned in Matthew 24:24 that "false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect." This should give us pause. The deception will be so convincing that even devoted followers of Christ could potentially be led astray.

What is "the lie" that Satan tells?

When we examine Scripture, we see a consistent pattern in Satan's deception. From the Garden of Eden to Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, the enemy's core lie remains the same:

You can get what you want without God.

In Genesis, Satan told Eve she could gain wisdom without following God's instructions. To Jesus, he offered kingship without the cross. The lie always suggests there's a shortcut to what we desire—a way to achieve it without submitting to God's way.

This lie manifests in our lives when we think:

1. "I can find happiness my own way"

2. "I don't need to follow God's design for relationships"

3. "I can create my own purpose and meaning"

4. "I can achieve financial security through my own means"

How does God respond to those who believe the lie?

In 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12, Paul writes something troubling: "For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness."

This doesn't mean God actively deceives people. Rather, as Romans 1:28 explains, God "gives them over" to their chosen path. Like the father of the prodigal son who allowed his son to leave with his inheritance, God sometimes lets people experience the full consequences of rejecting Him.

God doesn't force Himself on anyone. He respects our free will, even when we use it to walk away from Him. But the door to return is always open through Jesus Christ, who is "pleased to give life to all who seek him" (John 5:21).

How can we stand firm against deception?

Paul gives clear instructions in 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15 on how to stand firm:

1. Remember you are loved by God - You are "loved by the Lord" and "chosen" by Him

2. Believe in the truth - The gospel is the truth that saves us

3. Hold fast to sound teaching - Cling to what you've been taught from God's Word

Those who are truly founded on Christ don't need new revelations or miraculous signs to validate their faith. They've already found everything they need in Jesus. When someone claims to have discovered a new truth or a different path, believers who are firmly rooted in Christ recognize that nothing needs to be added to what they already have in Him.

Why is Jesus the answer to every deception?

Jesus is "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). When we make Him the center of our lives, everything else comes into focus:

1. Want better relationships? Jesus teaches us how to love unconditionally.

2. Worried about your future? Jesus shows us how to prioritize and trust God.

3. Seeking purpose? Jesus gives our lives eternal significance.

Whatever you're looking for in life, start with Christ, and everything will come into proper perspective. The enemy will always try to convince you that you can find what you want apart from God, but it's the same old lie from the same old liar.

Life Application

The storms of life will come to everyone. We're either currently in a storm or preparing for the next one. How we live between storms determines how we'll stand when they arrive.

This week, examine your life for areas where you might be believing "the lie" that you can get what you want without following God's way:

1. What do you want most in life right now? Is it happiness, good relationships, financial stability, or purpose?

2. How are you trying to achieve it? Are you following God's instructions or looking for shortcuts?

3. Where do you turn for answers? When facing difficult questions, do you look to God's Word first, or do you seek worldly wisdom?

4. Are you delighting in things that don't honor God? Even "small" compromises can open the door to deception.

Make Jesus your firm foundation by spending time in His Word daily, surrounding yourself with believers who will speak truth into your life, and bringing your sin into the light through confession and accountability.

Remember: Everything you could possibly want, dream for, or imagine has already been given to you if you're in Christ Jesus. Stand firm on this truth, and no deception will be able to shake you.

Guilt and Shame: Finding Freedom in Christ

Understanding Guilt and Shame: A Biblical Perspective on Freedom in Christ

When feelings of guilt and shame overwhelm us, it's crucial to understand the difference between godly sorrow that leads to repentance and worldly sorrow that leads to death. This biblical perspective helps us navigate these complex emotions and find freedom in Christ.

What's the Difference Between Godly Sorrow and Worldly Sorrow?

According to 2 Corinthians 7:10, godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, while worldly sorrow brings death. This distinction is vital for understanding how to process feelings of guilt and shame.

The Role of the Holy Spirit vs. The Enemy

Two key players are involved when we experience guilt and shame:

• The Holy Spirit:

  • Convicts us of sin and righteousness

  • Leads us to repentance

  • Points us toward freedom

  • Reminds us of our identity in Chris

• The Enemy (Satan):

  • Condemns and accuses

  • Tries to change our identity

  • Keeps us trapped in shame

  • Leads to death and despair

How Can We Know Which Voice We're Hearing?

The key difference lies in the outcome:

1. The Holy Spirit's conviction leads to action and repentance

2. The enemy's condemnation leads to identity changes and shame spirals

What Does Scripture Say About Our Identity?

Key biblical truths about our identity:

1. There is no condemnation for those in Christ (Romans 8:1)

2. We are cleansed from a guilty conscience (Hebrews 10:22)

3. Those who trust in Him will never be put to shame (1 Peter 2:6)

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to:

1. Recognize false identity statements you make about yourself

2. Replace lies with truth about who you are in Christ

3. Remember there is no condemnation for those in Christ

Questions to reflect on:

1. What lies have I believed about my identity

2. How can I better distinguish between godly conviction and enemy condemnation?

3. What biblical truths about my identity do I need to embrace more fully?

Remember: You are not defined by your mistakes or sins, but by your identity as a beloved child of God. When shame tries to take hold, remind yourself of who you are in Christ and stand firm in that truth.

You Asked For: Are There Different Severities of Sin?

Understanding God's Perspective on Sin and Life

Life through Jesus offers something far greater than what our old life of sin and death could provide. While we may sometimes feel pulled back toward old habits and desires, they ultimately leave us empty and unfulfilled compared to the joy and peace found in Christ.

Can God Create a Rock So Big He Can't Lift It?

This question attempts to create a paradox to disprove God's unlimited nature. However, the question itself is flawed because it tries to put limits on a limitless God. Scripture tells us that "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26) and that His understanding has no limits (Psalm 147:5).

To illustrate the difference between a million and a billion, we talked about in terms we might understand. A million seconds works out to a little over 11 days. A billion seconds is….over 30 years! And a trillion seconds? It would take 1,000 generations to experience 1 trillion seconds. Our human minds struggle to comprehend true infinity - whether in terms of space, time, or power. The vastness of the universe, with its billions of galaxies, gives us just a glimpse of God's unlimited nature. He exists outside of our limited understanding of time and space. This perspective on God set’s up our next question.

Are There Different Levels of Sin?

From our human perspective, we often try to categorize sins as "worse" or "better." However, God's perspective is different. Romans 6:23 tells us "the wages of sin is death" - all sin leads to death and separation from God. While there may be different earthly consequences for various sins, God's primary concern is whether we are spiritually dead in sin or alive in Christ.

How Do We Receive New Life?

The path to life comes through:

1. Faith in Jesus Christ

2. Believing in His death and resurrection

3. Accepting His gift of righteousness

4. Being justified through faith

5. Experiencing baptism as a symbol of dying to sin and rising to new life

Life Application

This week, instead of comparing sins or trying to justify behavior, focus on this core question: Are you living in death or in life? Consider:

1. Do you truly believe Jesus loves you and offers new life?

2. Are you still finding satisfaction in things that lead to death?

3. What areas of your life need to be surrendered to experience more of Christ's life?

4. How can you pursue things that lead to life rather than death?

The challenge is to stop playing the comparison game with sin and instead embrace the new life Jesus offers - a life that finds no satisfaction in the empty promises of sin but finds complete fulfillment in Christ. We spent a lot of time in Romans this week. It’s so full of this language and helps us understand how we move from dead to sin to alive in Christ. Take some time this week to read Romans.