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In Acts 13 & 14, the Holy Spirit records the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas. The men traveled to Cyprus, and the established churches in Galatia before returning to Antioch in Syria to give a report of their efforts.

The journey was momentous. The response to the preaching of the gospel was interesting to say the least. Paul and Barnabas were very successful in converting souls, both Jew and Gentile, to the Lord. For example, on the isle of Cyprus even the proconsul Sergius Paulus was converted (13:12). In Antioch of Pisidia (13:48), Iconium (14:1), Lystra (14:21-22), and Derbe (21), many souls were saved.

However, the journey was characterized by extreme and inappropriate responses to their efforts as well. Consider the following: Elymas the sorcerer interfered in their efforts to share the gospel with Sergius Paulus in Cyprus (13:8). Some Jews in Antioch of Pisidia spoke blasphemies against them, and persecuted them (13:45,50). An attempt was made to stone them in Iconium (14:5), and they actually did stone Paul in Lystra (14:19).

At the other extreme, in Lystra the city began to worship Paul and Barnabas as gods! This seemed to upset the men even more than the persecutions. “But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard this, they tore their clothes… saying, ‘Men and brethren why are you doing these things? We also are men with the same nature as you…” (14:14-15).

The only appropriate response to the gospel is to believe! Any other response is extreme and wrong.

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A superstitious population in Lystra sought, with the blessing of a pagan priest, to worship Paul and Barnabas. Paul had healed a man who was crippled from the womb. As a result, the people began to call Barnabas, Zeus, and Paul, Hermes “because he was the chief speaker” (Acts 14:12).

Paul and Barnabas’ response is enlightening. They tore their clothes, ran to stop the worship, and said, “Men, why are you doing these things? We also are men with the same nature as you, and preach to you that you should turn from these useless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them” (Acts 14:15).

What was meant by the words, “men with the same nature as you”? Simply that they weren’t different. This is important. All men are the same, in the eyes of God. Each are equally guilty because of the sins they have committed (Romans 3:23). All are equally dependent upon God’s grace for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). All have been granted access to “repentance to life” by God (Acts 11:18). All who come to Christ are considered of equal value (Galatians 3:28). All who practice ungodliness will suffer the same fate (Romans 1:28-32).

With that known, no man is worthy of worship. No man is to be respected and feared above God Himself (Matthew 10:28). Instead, as Paul and Barnabas exhorted those in Lystra, we must all turn “to the living God” (Acts 14:15).

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Ananias, the preacher whose message brought Saul to obedience exhibited great faith to go to Damascus to share the gospel with him.

Saul of Tarsus quickly established his name as a chief persecutor of Christians. He was present at the stoning of Stephen. We are told that he “made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison” (Acts 8:3). In Acts 9, shortly before Ananias met him, we are told that Saul was “still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord” (Acts 9:1) as he came to the city of Damascus.

And now, a disciple in Damascus was told to go to where Saul was staying to preach to him.

We might think, well of course he would go, this was a vision from the Lord. However, there are examples in the past where men either questioned and equivocated (Moses) or even disobeyed (Jonah) such a message from God.

Not Ananias. He told the Lord that he was aware of Saul’s reputation, and even his purpose in Damascus (Acts 9:13-14). But, at the Lord’s insistence, “Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, ’Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you cam, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit’” (Acts 9:17).

We rightly champion Saul who became a great apostle. But, Ananias deserves our praise and thanksgiving as well.

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“If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me” (John 15:18-21).

Hate is such a strong word. Most would deny being guilty of hating anyone. Few revel in receiving hatred from others. The Greek word as used by Jesus: “is used especially, (a) of malicious and unjustifiable feelings towards others” (Vines).

As difficult as it is to come to grips with the possibility we will be hated for our faith, it is something each one of us must accept. The dichotomy that has existed throughout the ages, (good vs evil, light vs darkness, Christ vs Belial), is unchanging and unchangeable.

The world hates the Lord. It seeks darkness rather than light. If we are His, we will inevitably be painted with the same brush by Christ’s enemies. “A servant is not greater than his master.” It is a part of the cost we pay as we take up our cross to follow Him. It is the choice we make. Though hard, it is best choice, and infinitely rewarding.

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“For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise” (2 Corinthians 10:12).

Why is it not wise to compare ourselves to other people? The answer is simple, other people are not the standard! This is a very subjective standard that serves to make people feel a bit better about themselves, but in no ways gives insight as to whether they are approved by God!

Take, as an example the Pharisee in Luke 18 who prayed, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men — extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector” (11). Setting aside the numerous problems with the man (he was proud, dismissive, and certainly ignorant of the relative righteousness of the man to whom he compared himself), his relative worth in relation to others had no bearing on whether he was accepted by God!

Our Lord clearly said that the Pharisee was not justified. Which shows another problem with such comparisons, it tends to come from a place of pride. “I am not like other men — extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess” (11-12).

Like Paul, we must recognize the foolishness of such comparisons. Instead, compare ourselves with God’s words, which shall judge us in the last day! (cf. John 12:48).

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Paul’s admonition to the churches of Galatia was centered in their departure from the gospel of Christ into doctrinal error. They had turned away “to another gospel, which is not an other; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ” (Galatians 1:7).

There is only one gospel. Only one good news with the capability of saving the souls of man. This is why the altering of it through error brings the curse of God upon those who would “pervert the gospel of Christ” (7).

In John 14:6 Jesus said to Thomas, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” It is astounding that so many would take the singular gospel of Christ, and seek to alter it in any way. It alone is the “power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek” (Romans 1:16).

And yet they do. It is significant that the perversion of the gospel introduced by the Judaizers was an addition to the gospel. They taught that the Gentile had to become a Jewish proselyte to be saved. “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved” (Acts 15:1). Others today do the same. They may add to the gospel (pray the sinners prayer) or subtract from the gospel (saved by faith only). Some may deny the resurrection of the Christ, or His virgin birth, and yet claim discipleship. Others ignore his call to unity in faith. By this all rob the gospel of that which makes it God’s power to salvation.

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As the apostles proclaimed the gospel in the early days of the church in Jerusalem, the Jewish leaders debated what to do with them. They had already arrested Peter and John once, for preaching in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. Now, the apostles had been arrested again for filling Jerusalem with the doctrine of Christ.

They were furious, and plotted to kill the apostles. Then, a famous rabbi named Gamaliel spoke, counseling caution. His words had merit. If these apostles were working on their own, their efforts would eventually come to nothing. But, “if it is of God, you cannot overthrow it—lest you even be found to fight against God” (Acts 5:39).

Throughout the ages, this is exactly what men have done — fight against God. It always ended in destruction for them. God destroyed the world in the flood because men fought against Him. Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed with fire from heaven, because men fought against Him. The nation of Israel was taken into Assyrian captivity, Judah into Babylonian captivity, because His people fought against Him.

And now, the Jewish leaders, who had worked to have Jesus crucified on the cross, sought to fight against His disciples, and His kingdom. They too were doomed to failure. They listened to Gamaliel in part, after beating them and threatening them, they let the disciples go. Today, men continue to fight against God. But, the gospel continues to be preached, and the borders of His kingdom are enlarged. Man can fight against God, but man can never prevail.

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The apostle Paul loved his brethren. It is evident in every epistle he wrote, including his first epistle to the Christians in Thessalonica. Paul defends his conduct beginning in the second chapter. He was bold in his preaching, despite previous persecution, and conflict in that city (2). He spoke honestly and he spoke the truth from God (3). He did not seek to flatter them, nor did he seek glory in his speech (5-6). He was gentle in dealing with them, and clearly expressed his affection for them (7-8). He labored day and night, both in a physical trade, and in his ministry toward them. He did not want to be a burden to them as he proclaimed to them the gospel (9).

This led him to say in verse 10 of the text, “You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe.” This wonderful proclamation both expresses Paul’s ministry, and the manner of life we all should practice.

Devotion, justice and blamelessness are the proper life choices of all who have named the name of Christ. It is a response to God for the gift of grace, and the discipleship that he requires of us. It is characteristic of our interactions with the world, and especially our brethren. Why? Because it serves as edification! Paul said that his actions were so that “you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory” (vs. 12).

Devoutly, justly, and blamelessly… does this correctly describe your interactions with God and man?

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On the matter of offenses Jesus said, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones” (Luke 17:1-2). It can be said that Jesus is not happy with those who offend others.

But, what is it that Jesus refers to as an offense? The words is found a total of 15 times in the New Testament. In the KJV of the Bible, the term is translated offence (9x), stumbling block (3x), occasion of stumbling (1x), occasion to fall (1x), thing that offends (1x).

Thayer defines the term, (skandalon) – a trap, snare; any impediment placed in the way and causing one to stumble or fall.

So, Jesus frowns upon the one who would cause another to stumble or fall — that is, to sin against Him. It is bad enough when we ourselves sin, but if we lead others to sin, “woe to him”!

We should think of this when considering the proper attitude we should have toward those who teach error. When we think about teaching others ourself. When we consider how our actions will affect or influence others. As parents and grandparents as we consider our children and grand-children are watching us closely, and learning from our words and actions. Offenses will certainly come, but “woe to him through whom they do come!”

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The phrase “the day of the Lord” is typically used in scripture to reference a judgment of God. For example, in Joel 2:1-2, the prophet proclaims, “Blow the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for the day of the Lord is coming, for it is at hand: A day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness, like the morning clouds spread over the mountains…”

Joel was one of the prophets sent by God to seek to bring a rebellious nation to repentance. This particular judgment of God upon Israel took the form of a natural calamity — a plague of locusts devastating the land.

Consider the appropriate response to God’s judgment upon the land. “Now, therefore,” says the Lord, “Turn to Me with all your heart, With fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.” So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm” (Joel 2:12-13).

Whenever trial and tribulation occurs in our lives, whether individually or collectively, this should be considered. It is not that we know such tribulation comes from God’s judgment. But whether that be so, or if it simply be natural happenstance, we should always seek to examine our standing with God. Remember, the final day of judgment is coming, and it will come “as a thief in the night.” Now is the time for any needed repentance. Tomorrow may be too late.

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In Acts 14, we are told that Paul and Barnabas were in Iconium, preaching in the synagogue. Their preaching was effective among Jews and Gentiles. But, the unbelieving Jews “stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren” (14:3). Many believed, but the opposition was strong and active, and they eventually had to flee for their lives.

We will always emphasize the need for defending the faith, and the capability of truth to stand and convict men of sin. But, we also realize that it is possible for the minds of men to be poisoned. And, when it happens there is often nothing that can be done.

When men call light darkness and darkness light, they can poison the minds of some. When they state with extreme conviction and flattering words a false doctrine that has appeal to the masses, they can poison the minds of some. When they make false accusations about the faithful, characterizing their faith as extreme or irrelevant, they can poison the minds of some.

Such poison minds can make life more difficult for the servant of God. Not only does such opposition confuse the innocent, it emboldens the enemies of the cross to persecute the faithful. What do we do in response?

“I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ” … “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:1a,2).

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Paul’s prayer life is worthy of emulation. On numerous occasions he expressed his habit of praying for his brethren. There is one example in particular that is worthy of notice:

“For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe” (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

What makes you thankful? Is it the physical provisions you enjoy? – house, food, health? Is it family? For Paul, these things were relatively unimportant. As a bachelor, he fully gave himself over to the things of God. He learned, “in whatever state I am, to be content” (Philippians 4:11).

What brought him joy, satisfaction, and a feeling of thankfulness, was the faithfulness of his brethren. Not only was he thankful, he made his gratitude known to God, “without ceasing.” The relative value of the word of God working effectively in the lives of men is worth the emphasis Paul gave it.

Are you grateful for God’s word? Are you mindful of the faithfulness of your brethren? Do you make it a frequent habit to give God thanks for both?

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men… For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior” (1 Timothy 2:1, 3).

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Anyone who has read the letters of Paul know that he was a passionate man. He was open in expressing anger, sorrow, joy and concern. One example of this is an expression of concern for the Christians in Thessalonica. Note his words:

“Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this… (5) For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain” (1 Thessalonians 3:1-3, 5).

So, twice in five verses, Paul expressed the degree of his concern for those in Thessalonica, “when I could no longer endure it…” They were suffering affliction and tribulation. While it would be understandable to worry about them physically, Paul (as seen in verse 5) was concerned about their spiritual welfare.

A simple question occurs. How intensely do you care for the spiritual welfare of your brethren? Has there been a time when you could endure silence or inaction no longer? A time when you were compelled to speak or act? This is the test of love. “Love the brotherhood”! (1 Peter 2:17).

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The apostle Paul expressed a number of conflicting emotions that were a constant part of his work as an apostle. For example, he wrote about his feelings toward his unbelieving countrymen, saying that, “I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh…” (Romans 9:2-3).

However, in his letter to the Philippians he remarked upon his remembrance of them, “always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now…” (Philippians 1:4-5). Later in the same epistle he talked of his having learned, “in whatever state I am, to be content” (4:11). He also remarked upon the “peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” that is the blessing of all who give their troubles over to God in prayer (cf. 4:7).

While these emotions seem contradictory, they are the expressions of a child of God who sorrows for the lost, rejoices with the saved, and has learned to trust in his God.

“We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed — always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10).

May we all feel the same emotions as those expressed by Paul’s example.

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“Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle” (2 Thessalonians 2:15).

Paul’s exhortation to hold the traditions which you were taught must be reconciled with the common view that tradition in the church is an evil that should be avoided. This can be easily done by looking at the entire verse. The “traditions” that we are to hold on to are the ones that have come through the agency of the Holy Spirit!

Progressivism in the church is dangerous. It is not that we object to a TV or projector over an overhead, chalkboard or bedsheet. It is also not an objection to the use of the internet, social media and Bible apps on our phones. Some may argue that the older ways are better, but typically it is because they are used to them, not because they are intrinsically better or more righteous.

But, there are certain “traditions”, with us for almost 2,000 years that are sacrosanct. They are God’s ways, thoughts, and methods. They are better than the “improvements” that may claim must be made to keep God relevant in our modern times.

Changes in worship, morals, objectives and work are sometimes championed because “times have changed.” That doesn’t matter. God told us how He wants us to worship Him. He established once for all what is moral (righteous) and immoral (sin). He has given us His work to do in His way. So, hold fast to the traditions of God!

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