It’s not going to be easy. Spiritual warfare is a manly business. It’s not for the faint of heart.
Our enemies are spiritual creatures, demons, and the devil himself. But make no mistake, the devil uses people to do his bidding. Wicked people. They are constant liars. They are masters of spin. Twisters of the truth. Spiritual warfare isn't a common or well-understood topic. Yet it is a constant thread in the New Testament. We can learn from the example of the apostles and disciples in the Acts Church. We see the need for spiritual covering over Paul and Barnabas as they go on this important mission. And we see the repeated theme of fasting and prayer (I tend to do little of either). We must be alive to the fact it is a battle - and remember, we are well armed. We have Holy Spirit gifts and tools. There is nothing stronger.
The word of God is powerful. The message of God’s grace, love for all people, and forgiveness of sin is excellent news. It is the Good News. It is the only door to understanding satisfaction, peace, joy, and freedom. The demons believe in God. And they tremble in fear. They also tremble at the power of the Good News.
I'm mindful today that it is ok to have questions. I'm sure Paul and Barnabas did as well. They didn't know exactly what God would do. But they trusted God as they went on this mission trip. And when they got back they reported everything God did through them and around them on their journey. Let's make an effort to talk more about what we see God's hand doing. Share your doubts and questions with each other.
I scribbled down a few questions this morning as I read this passage. God used miraculous signs and wonders in this passage. How does God prove his message true today? Does God still permit nations to go their own way? What is the consequence when nations turn from God? What's God's timing? Why is God so patient with wicked men? Do we have to suffer hardships to enter the Kingdom of God like this passage says? And what kinds of meetings should the church call? Why don't we call meetings of the church today like the Acts Church did? Why must Christ’s messengers expect to be hated, rejected, opposed, and stoned?
I don't pretend to know much. But I do know the devil and his minions seek to control, block the truth, abuse people, usurp, kill, steal, spurn, denigrate, and destroy.
You gotta be tough if you are going to preach the message of the Holy One, spiritually and physically. We need strong, godly leaders today. The modern Church is characterized by easy feel-good messages - lukewarm and watered down, milk and water Christianity - that tickle the ears of the devilish. Those messages will earn you worldly praise, acceptance, and influence. And a special place in hell.
That was not the message Paul and Barnabas preached. They provided solid spiritual food. And their preaching had real eternity-changing results.
They preached the message of Jesus Christ, the Savior: crucified, resurrected, and reigning as Creator.
The Holy Spirit works through His message: That men and women, boys and girls must turn from worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them.
Anything good we humans have is evidence of the Almighty.
Lord Jesus, please direct the hearts of young men and women everywhere to preach your message. To preach it boldly and clearly. We know we will be opposed. We know you want us to make disciples. Men and women who believe Jesus is the Lord and King and who learn to walk and live and work and serve in the ways of God.
Thank you, Lord God, for the challenges of this life. On the tough days as much as any other. For the suffering and hardship. For your promises for the future and life eternal. Amen.
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