Today’s Thought “Conviction: God’s Priests at Work” G. Ward

Acts 17

¹⁶ Now while Paul was waiting for them in Athens, his spirit was being provoked within him as he observed that the city was full of idols.

 

The Apostle Paul finds himself in Greece, the religious and intellectual capital in the Roman Empire; yet, he’s not impressed as so many were (1 John 2:15-17), nor is he disillusioned concerning the magnitude of responsibility to remain full of grace while among such permissive behavior from its citizenry (cf. 1 Cor.10:23). Soon thereafter, he’d encounter their great philosophical giants. These giants (of philosophy) were intimidating to most, because their answers were overwhelmingly intelligent, even leaving most perplexed. However, Paul would embrace his weakness (not as men regard weak, but a fortitude to remember HE who is greater, lives on the inside of him; so, what should he fear (?). Ultimately, his convictions didn’t disappoint – but would introduce a cycle undesired by other courts mentioned by our Lord (*Matt.10:16-18). As believers are we paying attention?

May our lives never represent a confidence (entirely arrogant), suggesting an unsanctioned capability without the Lord’s leading (John 15:5) and whereas being bothered by actions (from the unredeemed) is permissible (Eph.4:26), our commandment to “wait on the Lord” remains…