February 17, 2012 (Numbers 1-2; Acts 24)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “We have found this man to be a troublemaker who is constantly stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the cult known as the Nazarenes.” Acts 24:5 NLT
Observation: Five days after Paul arrived in Caesarea his accusers showed up. Ananias the high priest, some of the Jewish elders, and a lawyer named Robert Shapiro, well actually his name was Tertullus. They accused Paul of being a troublemaker and constantly stirring up riots among the Jews. I suppose this was partially true, Paul did preach the unadulterated gospel of Jesus Christ and we know full well how that got the Jews blood pressure up! They said he was the ringleader of a cult. Even though they had studied the scriptures for years they didn’t recognize them being fulfilled before their eyes.
Application: In modern day America we don’t view being labeled as a troublemaker a good thing. Being accepted, received, and viewed in a favorable light has become the center of our ambition. Most sermons preached in American churches today would not offend anyone, not even satan, much less start a riot. I believe satan attends the local church and shouts hallelujah when the socially accepted, religiously tolerant sermons of peaceful betrayal are uttered. The gospel needs a ring leader like Paul, who is willing to not only be bound for the sake of Christ, but willing to die for His sake if necessary. Like the Jews in Paul’s day we have studied the scriptures for years, we should be careful not to miss them being fulfilled right before our eyes.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your wonderful mercy and grace that provide and protect me daily. You are the awesome God of heaven and above You there is no other. Father, reveal Your truth to me. Help me not miss the scriptures being fulfilled before my very eyes. Remove the scales from my eyes and allow me to see clearly. I long to see You, I long to be with You. May I learn more each day what Your desire is for my life, in Jesus name, Amen!