Next!!

Scripture: Job 18; Ps. 114; Acts 27-28

Acts 28:28-31
“You’ve had your chance. The non-Jewish outsiders are next on the list. And believe me, they’re going to receive it with open arms!”

 Paul lived for two years in his rented house. He welcomed everyone who came to visit. He urgently presented all matters of the kingdom of God. He explained everything about Jesus Christ. His door was always open.

Observation: In the old testament, God’s people were often guilty of not listening. In this passage, their hardened hearts are pointed out once again and Paul indicates that God is going to do a new thing with new people to accomplish the old goal.

I can see this passage written for us today. “You’ve had your chance. The non-Christian outsiders are next on the list. And believe me, they’re going to receive it with open arms!”

We’ve made the Church more about us than those to whom we have been sent with good news. God’s about to do a new thing with them. That’s been the plan all along. Our non-participation won’t stop God. It will just leave us out of the loop.

Application: I am called by this passage to be more interested in the non-Christians than the Christians for the sake of their exposure to the Gospel and the winning of hearts and minds to Jesus Christ. That means I’m also called to lead those around me to do the same thing. Congratulations.

Prayer: God, don’t leave me out, and don’t let me leave myself out. Please bring me to those who need you most. Please show me those who haven’t yet met your Son, and help me to make a solid introduction. Amen.