Scripture:
Acts 13:47-49 – For so the Lord has commanded us saying, “ I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you my bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region.”
Observation:
The Gospel message being preached to the Gentiles was always part of God’s plan as Paul and Barnabas reference their calling in Isaiah 49:6. The Gentiles response was to rejoice and bring glory to the word of the Lord. As many believed, the Gospel spread throughout the whole region.
Application:
The Gospel message is for everyone, both Jew and Gentile. The saving message of the Gospel being carried to all ends of the earth has always been God’s plan. The salvation offered by the grace of God in the Gospel is a gift for all, should we choose to receive it. My first response to the Gospel needs to be that of the Gentiles in Antioch of Pisidia, one of celebration, rejoicing and brining glory to God through the truth of the word. This is the greatest news, we are forgiven of our sins and offered a relationship and eternal life with the Father! Second, I must take the word of the Lord and share it in our region, Manatee and Sarasota counties wherever I have influence – Love Enough. Then as we are called, the Gospel is to be shared in our state, nation and world.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love and grace in the Gospel. Help me to be joyful as I share the greatest news in my community and to all.