Jonathan on 18 April 2005

Scripture
Acts 13:14-16
On the Sabbath they went to the meeting place and took their places.
15After the reading of the Scriptures--God's Law and the Prophets--the president of the meeting asked them, "Friends, do you have anything you want to say? A word of encouragement, perhaps?"

16Paul stood up, paused and took a deep breath, then said, "Fellow Israelites and friends of God, listen…"


Observation
Here we see Paul seizing an opportunity. With his in depth knowledge of the Scripture as a Pharisee, his encounter with the Message of Jesus Christ, and his preparedness to witness to the total life change, Paul makes an incredible speech, arguing the case for Christ with confidence
and quoting scripture as his authority. All the people respected what he said and he is invited back 3 weekends in a row before they were forced to leave. Many come to know the Lord.

Application
How does Paul do it? He finds the perfect opportunity and utilizes language and history and his knowledge and the crowd's eagerness to paint a picture of Jesus and his resurrection; the essence of God's work.

Should I expect myself to do so well? I'm not as studious as Paul but that can change. I'm afraid of public speaking but that too is nothing permanent. I look for opportunities but only spot them after I miss them. People don't seem as interested in the things of the Spirit anymore but maybe I don't go to the right places.

Prayer
Father God, How does Paul do it? How did Jesus do it all? What standards would you have me set for myself and what sort of results do you expect from my life? Teach me Lord to speak you Message and do so with full confidence, integrity and love. And help me to be content doing the best I can do, leaving the rest to you. Grant me your Holy Spirit that I may play my part in your big plan. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.