Anything But Usual

Text: Acts 13:13-42

Theme: Paul’s bold proclamation of truth was a welcome change.

Key verses: “On the Sabbath they went to the synagogue for the services. After the usual readings from the books of Moses and the prophets, those in charge of the service sent them this message: ‘Brothers, if you have any word of encouragement for the people, come and give it.’ So Paul stood, lifted his hand to quiet them, and started speaking. ‘Men of Israel,’ he said, ‘and you God-fearing Gentiles, listen to me. The God of this nation chose our ancestors and made them multiply and grow strong during their stay in Egypt. Then with a powerful arm he led them out of their slavery. He put up with them through forty years of wandering in the wilderness (v. 14b-18). “And it is one of King David’s descendants, Jesus, who is God’s promised Savior of Israel! Before he came, John the Baptist preached that all the people of Israel needed to repent of their sins and turn to God and be baptized (v. 23-24). “Brothers–you sons of Abraham, and also you God-fearing Gentiles–this message of salvation has been sent to us! The people in Jerusalem and their leaders did not recognize Jesus as the one the prophets had spoken about….They found no legal reason to execute him, but they asked Pilate to have him killed anyway. When they had done all that the prophecies said about him, they took him down from the cross and placed him in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead! (v. 26-30). “Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins (v. 38). “Be careful! Don’t let the prophets words apply to you. For they said, ‘Look, you mockers, be amazed and die!’ (v. 40-41a). “As Paul and Barnabas left the synagogue that day, the people begged them to speak about these things again next week. Many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, and the two men urged them to continue to rely on the grace of God” (v. 42-43).

What God said to me: Good morning! Trust me about this day and commit it to me. I will work all things together for your good and my glory. Just listen and obey. Like with Paul and Barnabas, I can take your ordinary, walking-around life, and do something extraordinary with it today. Notice how I used Paul to bring a very unusual experience into an otherwise ho-hum, routine gathering of religious folk at a Jewish synagogue. Let’s start with the question of why “those in charge of the service sent them a message,” asking them to speak. Granted, that may have been their common practice, to invite strangers up to share with everyone. But it’s more likely they recognized something unique about P&B. Perhaps they carried themselves differently, with authority and confidence. Perhaps they had spoken to the leaders prior to the meeting and had already introduced themselves as evangelists and teachers with a word from God. Whatever the reason, what happened next was anything but usual in that synagogue. Dare say, those people had no idea what they were about to experience. When my people speak, they should speak as though it were my very words, with authority and love, representing me in every word and action. That is what Paul and Barnabas did so well in this setting. Their presence and message demanded attention, and they got it. Now let’s inspect Paul’s message closely. Notice how much he packed into this presentation…

A history lesson…Paul knew his Bible and his Jewish history, and he knew the religious history of those to whom he was speaking. This is important on several levels. Obviously, knowing Old Testament history is vital to understanding New Testament salvation and theology. But Paul knew (and demonstrated that he knew) the context of the Bible and how it relates to those he was addressing.

A Jesus lesson…Paul wasted no time getting to Jesus. He was in no way timid or hesitant to proclaim the truth to them about my Son. Much too often, my people hold back and keep their beliefs about Jesus to themselves. They don’t want to offend anyone or be seen as narrow-minded or fanatical. But only Jesus is the promised Messiah of Israel (and Gentiles like you), and he can saved people (like you) from your sins.

A Bible lesson…Notice when Paul spoke to a crowd, he didn’t quote from other books or other authors and notable personalities. He didn’t do that in his epistles either. He did, however, quote a lot from the Torah and the prophets. He used scripture to drive home his points. He stood on scripture as his foundation and authority for all he taught and did. He was also skillful in his use of scripture. Like a careful surgeon, Paul sliced right through their doubts and confusion. He pierced their arguments with the truth from my Word–the very Word they stood to read each and every week.

An inclusive lesson…Paul said, “Brothers–you sons of Abraham, and also you God-fearing Gentiles–this message of salvation has been sent to us!” When he said it was sent to “us,” he made sure the Gentiles were included with that group. He himself was a zealous Jew. Before I met him on the road to Damascus, he had persecuted Christians in the name of Judaism. He hated Gentiles and anyone not born of noble birth. What a difference Christ made in his life! I sent my Son for the whole world–every tribe, language, people and nation. Whosever will, let him come to me and find life.

A redemptive lesson…Paul clearly proclaimed the Gospel, the Good News of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. He told them there is forgiveness for their sins. Anytime you speak to a group on my behalf and anytime you share your faith with someone, be sure you include these powerful truths. Paul wasn’t ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for he knew it was the power of God unto salvation, for the Jew first and also for the Gentile.

A confrontational lesson…Paul wasn’t there to win a popularity contest. This was the first time these people had heard or heard of Paul and Barnabas. Some might think it would have been more beneficial and tactful to try to get the crowd on their side first, to reign in the hard language and present a softer, friendlier side. First impressions matter, and Paul certainly made a lasting first impression. He was bold, confident, witty, deliberate and didactic. But don’t miss that he was also confrontational in his presentation. Regardless of who might like or appreciate his words, he held nothing back. Sometimes the truth hurts, and often it is anything but popular.

A compelling lesson…Despite their strong words (and in some cases because of them), many who heard Paul speak begged him and Barnabas to return. They needed to hear of this “hard truth.” Fact is, people who are really searching for help often want to hear the facts and unpleasant truth about themselves. They need someone to be honest and clear with them, rather than sugar-coating things. They don’t want to be told they’re OK when they know they’re not. They don’t want to be told they don’t need forgiveness when their consciouses keep them up at night and load them down with guilt. Dwayne, let this be a lesson to you. I am working on people’s hearts in ways you can’t see. My Spirit is drawing those I have chosen for that time when you encounter them. Love them and be kind to them, but, by all means, love them enough to tell them the truth of the Gospel and the truth of their need of my Son. As your Send Me song says, it’s not about you, but it’s for my glory.

What I said to God: Thank You, my Father, for speaking through Your Word so loudly to my heart today. Wow, what lessons are hidden as jewels within this chapter in the life of Paul. I’m amazed every time I look closely at his life. It truly was a life that reflected You and Your glory to a world in need. I’ll never be Paul, not even close. But help me be the most effective me I can be for Your kingdom’s sake and the honor of Your Name.