As the book of Acts concludes, we read about Paul as he finally arrives in Rome. This was exactly what Paul had been promised by God in chapter 23, that he would give testimony in Rome. The example of Paul should inspire all Christians to share Christ at every opportunity. For the last 6 chapters of Acts, we read about Paul’s journey to Rome. At every single stop of the way, Paul consistently does one thing. He gives testimony to Jesus Christ.
Three days after Paul arrives in Rome, he sends for the Jews in Rome, requesting a meeting with them. As they gather, Paul spends the day explaining to the message of the Gospel and how Jesus is the fulfillment of the promised Messiah. What is the result? Acts 28:24 (CSB)” Some were persuaded by what he said, but others did not believe.”
We learn several things from this passage. The first thing is that we must be faithful in delivering the message of Jesus. Too many Christians fail to impact their world not because people are unreceptive, but because they never share. Jesus told His disciples, Matthew 10:27 (CSB) “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the light. What you hear in a whisper, proclaim on the housetops.”
The second thing we learn is that when we share this message, some will respond. I have friends who love to fish. They often tell me that they are not always successful, but they still go. Why? “Because a bad day fishing is better than a good day…!” Oh that our love for fishing for men would equal our love for fishing for fish.
The final thing we are made aware of in this passage is that not everyone will respond to the gospel message. Yes, the stories of the one that got away may very well outnumber the ones that are saved but that should never deter us. We are fisherman. And fisherman fish. Paul could not help himself. As those who rejected the Gospel leave Paul tells them, Acts 28:28–31 (CSB) “ Therefore, let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.” 30 Paul stayed two whole years in his own rented house. And he welcomed all who visited him, 31 proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.”
God has given you a Holy Calling. Are you fulfilling it?
Dear God, Help me to be faithful in my sharing of your hope to a world trapped in the waters of despair. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Attention All PBC Kids:
Every Tuesday night at 7 pm, we will be having Sunday School
for kids in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Join Carol Jo Taylor on Zoom
for Sunday School. Contact Carol Jo if you need the link.
Also, all kids are invited to a Biblical Storytime with Carol Jo on Sunday nights at 6 pm on Piner Baptist Church Facebook Live.
Food Cards Needed for NKU International Students
We have 50 international students stranded at NKU (primarily from African nations). There is a need to collect gift cards FOR THESE RESTAURANTS SPECIFICALLY (walking distance to where they are housed with no transportation) to help feed these students: Chipotle, Canes, Chick Fil-A, Ichiban, Subway, Wendy’s, and Meijer. They were supplementing their income to cover food costs at NKU and are now unemployed.
Currently, we no longer need food for the Piner Families. If we receive any more requests, we will restart this program.
VBS on the Road
We are looking for volunteers to lead and/or host 2-hour day camps in subdivisions around our area during the month of July. If you are interested in teaching or hosting, please contact Bro. Mark. mark@pinerbaptist.org