OBSERVATION: Paul and Barnabbas did what spiritual leaders do. After sharing the message of salvation to the unbelieving crowd many became saved. Now their language had to change somewhat from their message to unbelievers ("Repent and be baptized"), to the message to believers ("Continue in the faith").
APPLICATION:
- Continue in the faith. I don't think we can imagine how difficult that might have been at that time. There was no established church. There was no Christian Bookstores, Sunday School curriculum, Christian worship songs -- there was not even a New Testament.
- Continue in the faith. The main sense and meaning of the word is to 'remain in' the faith. Don't depart from it. In spite of hardships and difficulties. They were told, "through many tribulations we must enter the Kingdom of God." It's not an easy road. Fasten yourself to the mast of faith and hold on (like the sailing scene in 'What About Bob'). Don't be discouraged or derailed by life's tribulations. Hang on. Continue in the faith.
- Continue in the faith. To continue in the Christian faith isn't just static -- it is dynamic and growing. Continue means maturing, bearing fruit, changing from milk to solid food, etc.
PRAYER: I'm not done! I am still in process. Lord, I need Your guidance, Your grace and Your strength. I will continue in my faith, not just stand still or shrink back. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment