Acts 18- Remain Faithful

Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ. But when the Jews opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest... Then Paul left the synagogue (Acts 18:5b-6a,7a).

Paul is committed to proclaiming Christ. He is devoted to preaching the Word of Christ in the synagogue. Unfortunately he is encountering opposition. And opposition is discouraging. God calls each of us to ministry (see 1 Peter 2:9) but he doesn't always promise that it will be easy or received well. If the Apostle Paul sees opposition then we should expect the same. But don't lose heart.

One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack or harm you, because I have many people in this city" (Acts 18:9-10).

God calls us to be faithful even in the face of opposition. Keep on speaking Paul. God has a plan. God is at work. He has many people in this city. Remember it is God's work. Sometime we rely so heavily on our abilities. We think transforming our schools or evangelizing our friends rests solely on our shoulders. We had better do this thing right. We better have the right stories and the right strategy or it isn't going to work.... But God says "I have." God is the power behind the scenes. If we will obey Him He will accomplish His purposes.

So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God (Acts 18:11).

Remain faithful to what God calls you to. You do not need to win everyone to Christ. You do not need to be the coolest Christian on campus. You simply need to remain faithful to God. The results are in His hands.