February 15, 2024
Paul was afraid as he ministered in the city of Corinth. The reason we can believe this is because Jesus doesn't waste words. He comes to him in Acts 18 with an encouragement that addresses his fear.
And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man will attack you in order to harm you, for I have many people in this city." (Acts 18:9-10)
Obviously, the source of his fear was that if he kept speaking, he would be persecuted. It had happened before. And now, he has worked among the Jews, finally "(shaking) the dust off his feet" and telling them he was going to the Gentiles. Paul moved NEXT DOOR TO A GENTILE HOUSE to preach the Word. It was a perfect recipe for persecution. And Paul was obviously afraid.
THE PROMISE
God assured Paul of His presence. “I am with you!” was all he needed. But the Lord followed that with a challenge and responsibility. “I have many people in this city.” In other words, “Paul, you are not alone! Others will be in this great task with you!”
And it also meant that Christ was telling Paul that there were many yet to be won to Christ if Paul would keep on sharing the gospel. This encouragement was exactly the word Paul needed. And he "settled there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them" with great spiritual success.
ARE YOU AFRAID?
The answer is quickly determined by how many people you speak to about Christ daily. If the answer is "not many" or "none" the culprit is almost always fear. We fear we will be persecuted, laughed at, and thought less of. Or simply that it will become awkward or inconvenient with people. Or we worry that we don't know what to say or, are ill-equipped, or that it will affect our comfort or reputation. It might cost us something we are unwilling to pay.
In the current move of revival and awakening that is stirring, God will call you to enter places you may not have gone. To surrender all. To confess sin and walk deeply with Him. And to share the gospel and testify to everyone. There may even be persecution. It can be fearful. But we must hear the words of God to Paul.
Do not be afraid! The Lord will be with us just like He was with Paul. And there are many around you who need Christ. Our work is not done.
“Lord, open my eyes to the opportunity and people around me today. Give me an open door to witness and the courage to be unashamed of the gospel!”
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