RE Verse reading-Acts 13:1-5, 13-14, 42-52 (day four)
Paul and Barnabas had large crowds listening and responding to their gospel message in the synagogue. There were two responses…the Jews were jealous and rejected all that Paul had to say. They blasphemed and stirred the crowd up against the missionaries. The gentiles on the other hand, when they heard that Paul would now take the gospel to them, rejoiced. This was not the first time we have seen this dual response. In Matthew 9, Jesus was eating with tax collectors and sinners. The Jews reacted to His message. Jesus said, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick.” The gentiles recognized their need for salvation…the Jews thought they had no need. Familiarity with the gospel does not equate to a personal relationship with Christ. A hunger and thirst for His truth is the first step toward salvation.
Guest Blogger: Larry Soape – Associate Pastor, Education, Adults & Missions
