So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow it....Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. And everday, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.
Acts 5:38-39, 41-42 (ESV)
or what's different? Let's think about the situation at hand for a moment. The apostles are put into prision for speaking the name of Christ in public, they are freed by an angel, they are told to go and speak in the Temple courts. Morning arises, the High Priest finds out what is happening i, he gets enraged and calls all the men to be brought before the council. Yet, despite all the obstacles and hurdles that the apsotles are facing, they stand firm in their mission and calling from God.
The question that comes to my mind is, What has happened to the church in America? Is God not at work anymore, or is it us? I believe the answer is obvious, it is us. To many times I tend to lean upon my own abilities, get things done that I know I can accomplish on my own, but what would happen in my life if I started living radically for Christ. Not dependent upon myself, but totally dependent upon God. Would I be willing to take that step of faith, not sure of what lies ahead but trusting God in every step? These men lived this way and God did amazing things through them. What would FBC Cove look like if we lived lives like these men in Acts 5?
Father, help me to become a man that is totally sold out for you. I confess that to many times in my life I have tried to do things on my own. I am asking that you change me, help me to have the boldness, strength, courage and power that is displayed in the lives of the apostles in chapter 5.
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We would set the town on fire! Our church would be overflowing, the homeless shelter wouldn't be struggling, the Benevolence House would have more than enough money to give, the four Hope Pregnancy Centers would be fully funded, (and possibly be out of a mission)and we would be conducting Bible studies and discipleship right out of our homes!
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