It's not the end
Strictly speaking, it’s true that many churches have become a shadow of the early church’s former light or simply a ‘historical monument” where great things used to happen. In light of the ministry and sacrifice of Christ, the apostles inherited a commission to continue the work that Christ started. It is also a commission that we as Christian inherit. This week, through our study of Acts 28, we will learn what it means to be an active church that continues to proclaim the gospel.
There must be perseverance (v.11, 14-22)
Perseverance in sharing the gospel is a characteristic not easily adopted. However, it is also a characteristic that we learn with and through God. We can see the character of perseverance in Paul through the passage. In verse 11, Paul had been shipwrecked for three months after he had set sail for Rome. What followed suit was a series of detours Paul and his co-missionaries had to go through, but Paul’s focus was still on getting to Rome. Paul didn’t waver from this commission because he knew that God would stand by him every step of the way. Nothing could stop Paul from sharing the gospel. It is also important to note that Paul’s display of perseverance was only possible through the gospel that he has received and lived (Romans 8:31)
““What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?””
There must be persuasion (v.23-31)
On the matter of delivering the gospel itself, Paul shows us the need for persuasion. As the Lord’s servants, we are to deliver the message of Christ... but as children of God who love God and love others, we also want the gospel to change the lives of those who hear it. Paul knew that everyone he met was a candidate for being saved by the gospel.Note that persuasion is neither forcing the gospel onto people and merely info-dumping. It is of the hearer’s own free will whether they decide to accept it or not but we have to ensure that it’s not just lackluster information about the gospel. Ultimately the persuasion of the gospel comes from the power of the gospel as well as manifesting in words, actions, and love.
There would be multiplication (v.31)
There is no doubt of the sheer impact that Christianity has upon the world. This is a testament to the vast multiplication of people coming to know the gospel, even today. While Acts 28:31 leaves us on a cliffhanger of sorts (making us wonder what happens after Paul preaches the gospel), this verse is an invitation for believers to continue this work that Christ had started. The end of Acts is not really the end, but a sign that says, “There is still work to be done.”
Ultimately, the story of Acts is the story of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is what drives the church and allows these great things to happen. With the Holy Spirit dwelling among believers, perseverance and persuasion, we can be a church that isn’t just a historical monument. That being said, let’s pray.
Dear Lord Jesus,
We thank You for this wonderful work that You have started, and that You would use us to keep spreading the good news that You have given for the people in this world. We pray that we may have the perseverance to reach the people around us and have them persuaded by the gospel. Guide us, Lord, that we keep these things in-sight, and that Your Holy Spirit would continue to inspire and work in the church.
In Your powerful Name we pray,
Amen.