RevoDevos – Day 28
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Sunday, July 22nd
Read: Acts 28
"'I asked you to come here today so we could get acquainted and so I could tell you that I am bound with this chain because I believe that the hope of Israel—the Messiah—has already come.' They replied, 'We have heard nothing against you. We have had no letters from Judea or reports from anyone who has arrived here. But we want to hear what you believe, for the only thing we know about these Christians is that they are denounced everywhere' (vs.20-22).
Love is our greatest weapon because it never fails. This can translate into evangelism, and this can lead to persecution, suffering, and martyrdom. Many people consider this teaching to be very extreme. Most "normal" Christians would say that being tortured for Christ's sake is only something which is set apart for "extreme Christians." Perhaps this teaching is not extreme but, rather, normal. Perhaps this suffering should not surprise us as Christians, and that those who claim to love Christ but sit in their pews and never get persecuted for what they believe are actually the abnormal ones.
Two definitions of the word “extreme” suggest “Most remote in any direction; outermost or farthest” and “Extending far beyond the norm.” So, in order to understand the meaning of extreme, we need to discern what the norm is. The apostles, whose lives and ministries are recorded in Acts, were some of the very first Christians. The book of Acts is a history of the grass roots of Christianity. Here, we can learn the basics and the standard.
This was the early Church’s experience—people being healed, the dead being raised, people having demons kicked out of them, persecution, martyrdom, and people getting saved every day. This is generally not your experience in church today. Why is this the reality today? Has God’s agenda changed? Or has the Church’s agenda changed? There is still so much we can learn from the early Church and it all is very extreme.
In Acts 28 Paul meets some guys who have heard of Christians. Their reputations were extreme and they were denounced everywhere and were bound in chains because of their beliefs. This is the normal. Being tied up in chains for Christianity is normal. Being persecuted and kicked out of a town for your faith in Jesus is normal. Hundreds of people getting saved every day is normal. God’s normal is extreme! Are you willing to be a part of it?
Process:
- What is your experience? What do you consider to be normal? What do you consider to be extreme?
- What is something that goes back to "normal" Christianity that you find very different from your own experience?
- Do you believe that God is working or can work today the same ways he did in the book of Acts? What might that look like in our world today?
- What from the book of Acts has encouraged you to live a life of radical Christianity?
Posted By: Eric at 12:24 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 27
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Saturday, July 21st
Read: Acts 27
The word ‘hero’ may conjure up a mental picture for you of someone who is strong and courageous, intelligent and persuasive and who beats the odds. The truth is, heroes often come from the most unlikely circumstances. Think of Jesus, savior of the world. He came from the most weak and humble of beginnings yet conquered sin and hell and did so through a life of servant hood. Think of your favorite superhero. He/she likely came from humble beginnings too or appears with the natural eye to be feeble and unlikely to accomplish much.
In this chapter of Acts we see some of the heroic nature in Paul. Paul was a man who had been entirely humbled by the Lord. His conversion was a dramatic one that caused him to change the entire course of his life. All that he knew and pursued was wrong, and he died to himself in order to live a servant life for Christ. He endured suffering and imprisonment at the hands of his enemies for the sake of the gospel. That doesn’t sound much like a typical hero to me.
Paul’s encounter with Jesus was revolutionary. From that time on, no matter the circumstance, God’s power was displayed and used for Christ’s glory. This truth is evident as we read about his experience on a boat during a disastrous storm, in the middle of nowhere. He was a prisoner and had no rights; the authorities cared far more about themselves than him, a filthy, no-good lawbreaker. Waves and winds were strong and hope was small. Paul knew lives may be lost. He warned the ship’s crew of the impending disaster—shipwreck, loss of cargo, injuries and loss of life—but they cared little about what he said.
In this situation you would probably feel panicked and angry that no one listened to you. Paul encountered an angel who assured him that they would be safe and eventually arrive at their destination. In typical Paul fashion, he took the risk to speak up again to the ship’s crew and assured them that they would survive. He gained their confidence and was then able to give them further instruction on how to survive the storm (vs. 31-38). His help and wisdom also gained him favor as the commander of the ship spared him from death by the soldiers.
Paul didn’t panic; he knew God had everything in His hands and nothing Paul could do could save them. God was faithful and spared their lives and only the ship was destroyed. Would you, a prisoner, be so sure of God's faithfulness and tell your captors that God would save you? Or would you do all you could in your own strength to escape or save just yourself?
The only reason that Paul was a hero is because he allowed Jesus to revolutionize his life. Paul held fast to the promises of God and pressed in to them even when times were tough. Paul gained safety and protection and favor with man because of his faithfulness to the Lord. The hero in Paul was Jesus. This means, for us, being a hero is inevitable, we just need to live as servants who aim to please our master.
Process:
- Have you been in a situation where you tried to do everything yourself?
- When faced with trials, do you rely on God or on your own strength?
- How does Jesus want you to be a hero?
- Is your faith strong, like Paul’s?
Posted By: Eric at 12:22 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 26
Friday, July 20, 2007
Friday, July 20th
Read: Acts 26
Paul asks us, "Why does it seem so incredible to any of you that God can raise the dead?" Good question. Unfortunately, it's true for the majority of believers today. We are often caught remarking either mentally or aloud as Festus did, "Too much study has made you crazy!" (v.24) But things SHOULD be on the flip side. As Paul asserted, so should we: "I am not insane, Most Excellent Festus. I am speaking the sober truth." (v.25)
BUT...First we need to sort out our identity crisis. Are we truly firm believers with Paul, or are we on the fringes of legalistic religion with Festus and Agrippa? Too often, we've allowed Satan to feed us thoughts and we receive them without even thinking. Too much of this has led us to a place where we are shocked when God raises someone from the dead or answers our prayers in abundance. Now, I don't mean to say that God is not incredible. He most certainly is. Yahweh is MOST HIGH (see Psalms 7:17) and there is no one like Him (see Exodus 8:10). Indeed, our awe and wonder should provoke us to praise, but not to be surprised.
Scripture tells us that “we have not because we ask not” (James 4:2). The question is, then, why don't we ask? Because our faith is weak and we doubt God. Satan takes the truths we're taught in Bible Study, at camp, in church...and twists them around until all we're left with is confusion and complacency. Friends, this should not be. It should not be surprising to any of us that God can raise someone from the dead. It's in His character!
Check out Ezekiel 37 where it tells of how he raised a whole army! Just because it doesn't happen frequently doesn't mean God can't do it. Usually, we don't ask and that’s because we're not expecting, watching, or waiting for the Lord. How do we fix this? We need Jesus. We need God to reveal more of Him to us so we can know Him and expect Him to show up. Let's face it, if Jesus isn't with us, what's the point?
Get to know the Lord. Ask Him to tell you about Himself and show you some of His characteristics. Let's partner with God to minimize the shock factor and heighten the expectancy. As He reveals Himself, praise Him for His awesomeness!
"Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD." (Proverbs 8:33-35) Expect the Lord to show up in your life. Train your heart and mind to ask Him as often as you can to show you His glory. Expect that He's with you always and live like you believe it.
Process:
- Do you have faith to believe in the miraculous? Do you truly know the character of God? Study him! You won’t be surprised, then, when he does the incredible and shows his revolutionary power.
- Do you have faith that God will show up when you ask him to? Have you ever asked God to show you his glory? In what ways has he?
Posted By: Eric at 12:22 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 25
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Thursday, July 19th
Read: Acts 25
The religious leaders hated Paul. They made up stuff about him and planned to ambush and kill him. It wasn’t him that they hated exactly, it was his message and that he was so darn successful at preaching it! Little did they know that the ‘damage’ was already done. Paul was responsible for the spread of Christianity around the world.
It would not be easy to be in Paul’s shoes. He was locked up by the cops, stuck in prison for two years and still hadn’t had any real charges brought against him! In chapter 25 of Acts we find Paul still in limbo, seeming to go nowhere because of the situation caused by the authorities. And why? Simply because they weren’t sure what to do with him as we read Festus’s remarks, “For it doesn’t seem reasonable to send a prisoner to the emperor without specifying the charges against him!” (v.27). Festus has no idea what charges to press and so Paul continued to sit in prison for what seemed like forever.
Praise the Lord because Paul had a really good outlook on life—after Jesus revolutionized him, that is. But it’s likely that some days he struggled to trust in the ‘big picture’ plan that Jesus had for him. Sitting in a prison cell, day after day, not knowing what tomorrow would bring, feeling like so much time was being wasted would have really got to him! Not enough to immobilize or discourage him! He was still fighting and writing and praying and reaching others just like always. He didn’t lose heart and he didn’t give up. His passion and zeal could not be stopped.
Sometimes it is easy to have a negative perspective on life. We may not find ourselves in a prison cell for two years but nevertheless are dissatisfied with life for several reasons. We might feel like the place we find ourselves at the moment is not where we should be. We might feel like we’re imprisoned by the impositions of others on us. We might feel like the future is friendlier and more fulfilling than today. We might feel like the grass is greener on the other side.
No matter what the case, we can learn from and follow Paul’s example and live life day by day. When we have eyes to see and ears to hear what the Lord is doing today, in our present circumstance, revolution is possible. It can be so easy to miss out on what God is doing and teaching when our focus is on tomorrow. God does reveal future plans to us in His time but that should not be all we strive after. Keeping in step with the Holy Spirit each day is when God’s power will be seen and be made evident to others. Not only will our attitudes and outlook on life be revolutionized but so will the perspective of others when they see our example.
Process:
- Is there something about ‘today’ that makes you dissatisfied with your life? Ask Jesus to reveal how today fits into the big picture and let his revelation change your attitude!
- How can bad things happen to us and God still be a good and loving God?
- How should our attitudes be through these times? How do we keep from having a “life that is tinged with negativity?”
- What can you start doing today to love God and love others more deeply?
Posted By: Eric at 12:20 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 24
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Wednesday, July 18th
Read: Acts 24
We’ve all been in trouble at some point or another. Usually we’re in trouble because we really have done something wrong. It’s not very often that we find ourselves in trouble for doing good. In school the class troublemaker is widely known for disobeying the teacher, bothering and interfering with classmates and breaking well known school rules. It turns out, too, that the troublemaker is the person who gets blamed whenever trouble arises, even when they weren’t involved! Causing trouble doesn’t start a revolution (when the outcome is negative) but being a troublemaker for the Lord is indeed infectious and revolutionary!
Paul was a troublemaker. At least that’s what Tertullus the lawyer claimed in verse 5. The officials hated him and the Jews had it in for him. He got under their skin. They said he was a ringleader and a crowd stirrer—he had an awesome reputation. We should want to be troublemakers who stir people to action for the Lord! Paul admitted to his accusers his belief of the scriptures and prophets and his hope that God would raise “both the righteous and the ungodly.” Paul believed that his actions in this life had an impact on the life to come and so he “always (tried) to maintain a clear conscience before God and everyone else” (v.16). Paul had a clear conscience about what he did because he knew the kind of ‘trouble’ he stirred wherever he went was Godly and Spirit-led.
When Paul made his defense, he didn’t sound like a rioter and he didn’t sound like the kind of guy who would be hated all over the world. Why was Paul’s life so offensive? Because he did everything in the name of Jesus, that’s why. He believed in radical Christianity, Christianity 24-7, everywhere and in every way. His message was love and he lived that message until it hurt. Paul stirred up trouble by preaching truth, teaching people to love God and man, worshipping wholeheartedly, hoping in God and giving to the poor! He had good news and he was going to share it no matter who it offended. His convictions were strong and he didn’t back down.
We must take one more lesson from Paul before we go out being troublemakers for the Lord. We must have our defenses in order. Paul was ready to face his accusers with the truth; no lies and no excuses. He told the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth—and we know he did because his whole life was a testament to it. Paul always stood up for truth and often got in trouble because of it.
Today there is great potential for getting in trouble for doing good and staying on the side of truth. Being a voice and standing up for the rights of the poor, the aborted, the hungry, the abused and the prostituted can very well get us into trouble in society today. This is the kind of trouble we need to see more of. We need more trouble that aims to revolutionize situations and lives for the better.
Jesus tells us to put him first and spread the gospel. Let’s do it! There are more ways that one to spread the gospel. Spread the gospel of love, peace, justice, mercy, hope, and righteousness. And the next time you get in trouble, make sure it’s for a good cause.
Process:
- Here is the recipe for becoming a revolutionary troublemaker: love like crazy, live, give, preach, teach, worship, believe, be bold, be good, have faith and walk the talk. Live like Jesus, for Jesus.
- You can do it! How can radical love make you a troublemaker today? Have you been living out wholeheartedly the full Gospel of God?
- In what ways can you live out radical Christianity (“Christianity 24-7, everywhere and in every way”) in your everyday life?
Posted By: Eric at 12:19 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 23
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Tuesday, July 17th
Read: Acts 23
Paul got arrested, beaten, and even had an attempt on his life. He had to face his accusers and give reason for his words and actions. In this chapter of Acts, Paul’s words incited argument between the Sadducees and Pharisees and prompted the Jews to plan an ambush that would take his life. Through it all, the Lord stood near Paul and reminded him to “Take courage.”
God knew that Paul’s troubles would not end there. He told Paul to take courage because his mission wasn’t over. God’s next mission field for Paul was Rome. Within this story we find Paul slyly escaping an argument and sending his accusers in a fight with one another. We may find ourselves easily thrust into arguments and fights, but this is not the way of a true revolutionary. Sometimes, we’re not sure how arguments begin.
The Lord has a track record of sending the enemy into confusion and thwarting his plans. The story in 2 Chronicles 20:20-23 illustrates this principle well. King Jehoshaphat led his army into battle with praise and worship of the Lord at the forefront. As they began to honor God in this way, their enemies were confused and began to fight one another! God’s people were spared.
Jesus—the greatest example of a revolutionary—never got caught up with people such as the Pharisees and their deceptive arguments. He was slow to speak and quick to listen to the Holy Spirit who always gave the right response. After talking with Jesus, sometimes his adversaries went away confused and up in arms with each other. God thwarts the plans of the wicked and accomplishes much through the obedience of the righteous.
God provided for and protected Paul every step of his journey. In order to escape the planned ambush, God used Paul’s nephew (who heard of the plan) to provide a commander of the Roman army to escort him safely there. God may not use the most obvious methods, but He always looks out for us and always puts us where we need to be. God thwarted the enemy in this circumstance so that His will could be done through Paul’s mission to Rome. The Lord trusted Paul with this work and mission because of his proven faithfulness and obedience.
Process:
- Do you get caught up in worthless arguments? What can you do to ensure you’re only involved in discussions that edify others, bring glory to God and extend the work of His Kingdom?
- Has God entrusted you with a specific mission? If not, how can you work towards faithfulness and obedience to Him today so that He can trust you with a larger task?
How can you be sure that you are fulfilling God’s mission for your life?
Posted By: Eric at 12:18 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 22
Monday, July 16, 2007
Monday, July 16th
Read: Acts 22
Giving testimony is a revolutionary act. In this chapter Paul stood up in front of a mob of people (who, by the way, wanted to stone him) and was completely honest about his life. He shared his past—how he was a devout Jew who studied and practiced the law with zeal. He confessed that he persecuted Christians (enthusiastically), even some to the point of death. Even more than that, he testified about the revolution that Jesus brought to his life. He told the crowd that the Lord himself revealed His will to him and sent him on a mission to preach to not only the Gentiles but to the entire world.
Paul’s words and actions were so disturbing to those in Jerusalem that an actual riot had erupted. Paul knew and understood why the Jewish people were so enraged by what he said and did; he used to be one of them! He requested to speak to the crowd and said in verse 1: “listen to me as I offer my defense.” Usually a statement of defense is given by a defendant to protect him against a plaintiff's action. Paul would have known very well that the extent of what he was going to testify to would likely give the crowd even more reason to hate him. His testimony would not result in protection and resolution of the mob.
We often know and believe that Jesus’ blood can overcome anything, but do we remember that the work of the enemy can be overcome by our testimony? Our personal testimony is powerful and effective in overcoming the enemy. Paul lived this out as he fully trusted in the blood of Jesus to work in power in his life. He also didn’t cling to his life so much that he became silent whenever a mob was about to kill him for what he said. He believed that what he lived must be shared to anyone who would listen.
Who has the opportunity to stand up in front of a mob every day? Not many people in the western world. We do have opportunities in our everyday lives to let the power of Jesus’ blood and the words of our testimony revolutionize the lives of those around us. When we're in our classrooms, at work, playing sports, out shopping, going to the movies, or walking through our neighborhood we can speak up and tell people what Jesus has been doing in our lives. We won’t always get a warm reception from our listeners. We may even be ridiculed. Sometimes we’ll discover that a timely testimony will be just what our friend or neighbor needed to hear; it could revolutionize their moment, day, or life!
But, will we do it? Will we give up our self-images and reputations to spread the word of God? It’s a challenge, no doubt, but it’s what we're called to do. We're called to do something radical, against what the world says to do. Jesus tells us to put him first and spread the gospel. Let’s do it! Act as the fist of God and give the enemy a good jab with the word of your testimony today!
Process:
- How can you allow Jesus’ blood to overcome the enemy in your life? Ask the Lord what you can overcome today with his help.
- Have you ever felt like your testimony has little power? Ask the Lord to show you what you can share with others that will impact them for him.
- In what ways does God want to use you and your testimony to reach out to others?
Know that God has the power to change lives and has done a great and redemptive work in the lives of his followers.
Posted By: Eric at 12:16 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 21
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Sunday, July 15th
Read: Acts 21
Fortune tellers are intriguing, at least at first glance. If Tarot cards really can predict your future, wouldn’t you want to know what they had in store for you? A desire to know the future has always clouded our human minds. Generally, we are intrigued by the unknown and unseen mysteries of this world. Although interesting and widely used, we must be aware of the enemy’s schemes in these activities. The enemy likes to imitate all that is good and tries to pass it off as harmless and beneficial. A word about the future is not in itself evil; it is the source that we should be aware of.
In scripture we see the words ‘prophet’ and ‘prophecy’ frequently. So what exactly is a prophetic word? To prophesy is to foretell future events pertaining especially to the Kingdom of God or to declare something which can only be known by divine revelation. In this chapter of Acts we see how God gave a prophetic word to several people about Paul’s future if he traveled to Jerusalem. Paul was first warned by some disciples through a word from the Holy Spirit that he should not continue on to Jerusalem. Next a man named Agabus who was gifted in prophecy told Paul that he would be bound and turned over to the authorities if he went to Jerusalem.
Paul continued on to Jerusalem. Does this mean he didn’t believe the words given to him by the Lord? Was he in the practice of ignoring prophecy? Paul believed full well that he was in danger. He believed the word from the Lord. What he did scoff at was the believers’ weeping and begging for him to stay. Paul himself said that he was prepared to be “jailed at Jerusalem but also to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus” (v.13). This word of knowledge from the Lord did not deter him from going forth in what he believed was his mission.
Knowing the future can be scary, especially if it holds knowledge of inevitable pain, struggle or something that is a real fear for you. Knowing the future can be really exciting, especially when it holds the knowledge of future victory, growth and blessing. Either way, prophecy has the potential to usher in revolution! We read earlier that revolution means “an assertedly momentous change in any situation.” Receiving a word from the Lord through prophecy presents us with choice. We can choose to believe it in faith or we can choose to scoff at it and brush it aside. It is the choice we make that will determine whether we further the Jesus revolution in our life or in the Kingdom through our response to prophecy. Paul continued on in a revolutionary way by going where God wanted him despite the truth of danger and possibly death.
I pray that you will partner with the Kingdom and heed the word of the Lord from prophecy.
Process:
- Have you dabbled in ungodly forms of future-telling? Ask God to purify you and break any strongholds these activities may have planted in your life.
- Do you believe that people today are gifted with the ability to prophesy? Why/why not? Ask the Lord for a word of knowledge and believe in faith that he will give you one, either directly or through another believer.
Posted By: Eric at 12:10 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 20
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Saturday, July 14th
Read: Acts 20
The first section of this chapter explains the places Paul visited. It makes note of a plot set against him and his companions that travel with him.
In verses 7-12 we read the humorous story of a young man (or boy) named Eutychus. Though he fell asleep during Paul’s message, his weakness should probably not be thought of as a moral failure. Though the language is somewhat confusing, it seems best to verify that the boy was dead, and upon Paul’s healing, was brought back to life.
In the next section, Paul gathers the elders of the church of Ephesus and gives them a farewell address. By going to Jerusalem, he will probably never see these elders again. In verse 24 he makes mention of finishing the course. Paul uses this language again in 2 Timothy 4:7.
In verses 28-31 he urges the elders of the Church to shepherd the flock of God which He has put under their care. Paul can tell that in the near future, false teachers and opponents of the Truth will come to try and steal away those from the Church. It is up to the elders and solid Christians to be on their guard.
In verses 36-38 they gather together to pray and weep for Paul as he leaves them. This is the last time they should see him.
From the larger section of this chapter (Paul’s message to the elders) we can learn what it is to take care of those under our influence. Some of us will be called to be leaders (or elders) in the church of God (most evidently seen in our denomination through Officership). For those this passage will apply most directly.
Though Paul’s words are to these men in that time, it is the duty of every church leader to care for the safety of the flock of God puts in their care. For those of us in lay ministry, we will also be responsible at times for those under us. The enemy (Satan, the devil, etc.) and everyday people will intentionally or unintentionally lure the people of God away from the truth of God.
As current and potential leaders in The Salvation Army, we should be loving and knowledgeable enough, to protect and advise those in our care. Like the Ephesians elders, we may be the next in line to care for God’s people. Pray that He would make us ready for such a responsibility, should He trust us with it.
Process:
- In what ways are you called to look after God’s flock? How should you help and speak to others and protect them from the evil of this world?
- You are also a part of God’s flock—how are you allowing others to love you and look after your well being (mentoring, discipleship, church involvement, etc)?
Posted By: Eric at 12:07 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 19
Friday, July 13, 2007
Friday, July 13th
Read: Acts 19
This chapter explains what happens when Paul goes to Ephesus. First off, Paul meets some disciples who had not heard of the Holy Spirit. These believers were true followers of the Messiah which they had heard of through John the Baptist. Now this might seem odd that they had not been baptized in the Spirit yet. These disciples were baptized in John’s baptism though, and this prepared them for the Holy Spirit. It was a symbol of the baptism to come. Because of this, after Paul tells them that the messiah is Jesus, he baptizes them again, but this time it is in the name of Jesus Christ. At this point, they receive the Holy Spirit.
Following this, Paul went to teach the Ephesians in the synagogue for three months. Because of some unrest there, Paul moved his teaching to the school of Tyrannus. There he taught for two years. God was working through Paul in this area. In verse 8 it says that Paul was speaking about the kingdom of God. It is no surprise then that God worked so many miracles through Paul during this time (vs.11-12). He was showing the people that Paul was truly His messenger and that His (God’s) Kingdom was, in some respect, already on earth.
Eventually, the town could only take so much of Paul and his teachings. A man named Demitrius and some of the other businessmen met together. Their work was in making small idols or shrines to Artemis, a false god of the city. God’s work through Paul was so great that they were turning people away from false gods, so much so that the businessmen were losing sales on their shrines. Because of this, the businessmen were angered, and they brought the city into confusion as they began looking for Paul and his followers. Many people were brought into this situation; shouting aloud the name of a false god called Artemis…for two hours! (v.34).
Whom and what do we choose to worship? While statues like Artemis seem a bit far off, our generation has made many of its own false gods. Money, self-image, power, material possessions, music, sex, drugs, and alcohol are a few. We live in a culture of cool; the latest trends and fashions distract us from the one true God we were made to worship—Jesus. We are left feeling empty and confused when we chase after false gods. In Ephesus we read that “Everything was in confusion. In fact, most of them didn’t even know why they were there” (v.32). The people were caught up in the wave of what was happening around them and lost sight of who they were and what they were doing. But deep within us we have a hunger and desire to be in relationship with something greater than ourselves. We have a hole inside us that only the one true God can fill. We might find ourselves following after false idols, or simply carried along with the crowd. But God is the only one who truly satisfies the heart.
It’s so easy for us all to be caught up in the world’s trappings. Our enemy seeks to keep us in things that waste our time, steal our loyalty and leave us feeling empty—leading us to go after more things that cannot satisfy. We lose our identity and who we are in Christ when we conform to the patterns of the world. We must become aware of the enemy’s schemes and not be confused by the way the world is against us. Paul, knew his identity in Christ and didn’t waste time chasing after worthless things. If we are to avoid the mistakes that the Ephesians made, we too need to find our identity in Christ.
Process:
- We all have a longing to belong.
- Do you feel like you have found the place where you belong? Do you feel and know that you have worth in God’s eyes? Where is your identity found?
- Ask God to reveal areas in your life where false gods may be lurking and ask Jesus to take them away. Seek to become a worshipper who is solely devoted to the one true God.
- Whom and what do you choose to worship? False idols creep up in strange and unexpected ways. Root yourself in Christ and let him form who you are into who he wants you to be.
Posted By: Eric at 12:03 PM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 18
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Thursday, July 12th
Read: Acts 18
Paul was called by God to many different positions in the Church. In the beginning of Acts 18, Paul had just moved to Corinth and started living and working with a tent-maker named Aquila. Paul was using his time with Aquila wisely by discipling him and his wife, Pricilla. While Paul was working as a tentmaker during the week, he also ministered on the Sabbath to the Jews and Greeks. After a while, the Jews opposed Paul and became violent towards him, so he decided to focus his ministry on the Gentiles. Paul stayed in Corinth one and a half years teaching the Gentiles full-time about Jesus. Paul’s job was a tent maker, but his vocation was to be a full-time follower of Jesus, preaching and telling others about him.
Paul moved to Ephesus, and Pricilla and Aquila moved with him. Paul left them in the town to do the work of God without him. While Paul was in Ephesus he preached to the Jews in the synagogue. The people of Ephesus asked Paul to stay longer but he had the call of God on his heart. From there, Paul journeyed around to different churches, strengthening them in their faith and ministries.
Paul ministered in different ways to different people. Just because he worked an average job didn’t mean his life was compartmentalized. He preached and ministered wherever he found himself—including on the weekends! He also didn’t limit himself to the weekends either, but went into full-time ministry soon afterwards. He preached to the Jews and then he preached to the Gentiles. Paul always found time to introduce people to Jesus. No matter what the circumstance, Paul was faithful to do God’s work.
When we compartmentalize our lives there is the danger that God won’t be included in some parts of our lives. The revolutionary way of living is a holistic approach—allowing God to invade and infuse all relationships, positions, and circumstances with His purposes. God didn’t intend that we would cut our life into time blocks or segments that are available only to specific plans…that are often our own. Paul was a revolutionary because God was the center and purpose behind all of his activities and we would do well to take his lead.
The lyrics of “Jesus, Be the Centre” contain a good prayer that can help begin to align your heart with God’s:
Jesus, be the centre.
Be my source, be my light, Jesus.
Jesus, be the centre.
Be my hope, be my song, Jesus.
Be the fire in my heart.
Be the wind in these sails.
Be the reason that I live, Jesus, Jesus.
If Jesus were to become all these things to you, you would be a revolutionary. Your life would be a life of worship, honor and glory to God.
Process:
- Are you waiting until you finish school to ‘do God’s work?’ Are you waiting for a paid position to come along? (On the other hand, don’t let God’s work become a burden. His work is not a burden, but the outpouring of His work in our lives. Often times God’s work comes out of us after we’ve spent time, days/weeks/months, in His Word and in prayer. Then He works).
- Are you doing the work that God has presently called you to? Are you using the excuse of a ‘full time job’ or ‘full time student’ to not minister full time where you already are?
- Is your life compartmentalized and is God left out of some of areas? Ask the Lord to reveal to you how you can break down those barriers so that you can live life more fully.
- Do you feel a sense of urgency in your life about spreading the Gospel and love of God throughout the earth? Why or why not?
Posted By: Eric at 11:44 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 17
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Wednesday, July 11th
Read: Acts 17
Sometimes people try to connect or make friends with you by attempting to relate to you in a funny way. You may have experienced situations in which a teacher or youth group leader attempts to identify with a group of teens in a ridiculous way. Instead of making a connection and therefore a positive influence, their strange behavior or inappropriate words did the opposite or what they intended—they drove away their ‘audience’ from them or caused them to be laughed at and mocked.
Paul and his friends were traveling from city to city, telling people the truth about who Jesus was. They arrived at Thessalonica and Paul explained from the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. Now some Jews were persuaded, but not all. The rest, angry at losing men and women to his crazy new cult, organized a mob to find Paul and drag him before the authorities. Paul and his friends escaped just in time and traveled to Berea over night. I’ll bet that Paul encountered clashes in culture and group dynamics wherever he went but he pressed on in the knowledge that the gospel is for everyone.
Paul arrived at Berea and went straight into the synagogue to preach again. Paul was going strong, that is until the mob from Thessalonica caught up with him. He made a run for it again, waiting at Athens while his friends caught up. Now Athens was a marketplace of religion, filled with idols, foreign beliefs and different types of philosophies. In a single day you could be faced with beliefs and ideas to many extremes and be encouraged to pick and choose what suited you. Sound familiar?
This spiritual mess before him stirred Paul’s spirit. The city of Athens was filled with false gods, temples and altars to whatever people made up. And so he started again, teaching and preaching about Jesus. Now some philosophers approached him and asked about this new religious fad—Jesus Christ. Paul pointed at the inscription on one of their idols: ‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.’ This unknown god, said Paul, was the real, eternal God who wasn’t made with human hands. He taught them about God using their own beliefs, their own philosophies and he quoted their own poets. Paul was able to connect with the philosophers on their own level by relating his message to their own passion and lives. The message of Jesus came through to these people. Though the resurrection of Jesus turned a lot of the people off (to the Greeks this was nonsense), Paul didn’t back down in sharing the complete gospel. To have given them only part of the gospel would have been to give them no gospel at all.
With converts in Thessalonica and Berea, you would say that Paul’s evangelical efforts were certainly successful, particularly at provoking religious fanatics and violent mobs! The Church today has also tried to tell the world about Jesus, but the response is quite often similar to the mob in Thessalonica. In part, this is because we sometimes go unprepared in that we don’t know who we’re ministering to or how we can relate to others. We often offend unnecessarily because we haven’t done our homework by studying and asking the Lord how best to reach specific groups of people or even specific individuals. We can learn a good lesson from Paul. He was a wise man by telling people he encountered during his travels about the love of God in ways they could understand.
Process:
- Do you have a friend who doesn’t know God? What do they think or believe about life and spirituality?
- How could you explain Jesus in a way they would understand? How can you show them that Christ wants to be a part of their life?
- How can we relate and explain God to different people in different situations?
Posted By: Eric at 11:43 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 16
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Tuesday, July 10th
Read: Acts 16
A lot of time and energy is wasted in the Church today. I’m not talking about long-winded prayers or people leaving the lights on in the church building. I’m talking about how we plunge into new ministry and ideas that sound exciting and full of potential without consulting God first. Funny isn’t it? We want Him to be in all and through all but we go ahead and do stuff that wasn’t His idea in the first place. We’re not going to start any revolutions doing things that God hasn’t initiated or desired. That is sure.
In the sixteenth chapter of Acts we see that Paul and his crew continually checked with the Lord about His plans for their mission. In verses 6-10 we read how the Holy Spirit told them where to minister and what places they should avoid. Of course God would have good reason for these decisions; likely reasons that would keep them from wasting their time and energy. Paul’s ministry was revolutionary because he saw where God was working (or wanted to work) and joined him there. Sometimes God calls us out of one place and into another. Not every single person is called to do all of God’s work.
Another lesson from this chapter of Acts is that revolution is contagious. Once it has started in one person, you can’t stop it from spreading to others. Paul and his buddies were traveling around from town to town and when in Philippi God used Paul to revolutionize Lydia's life. Because of one woman's new faith her entire household was saved and baptized and this opened the door for a major revolution in Philippi.
One final lesson from this chapter is that God can use the most unsuccessful looking situations and turn them into revolution! Paul and Silas were severely beaten and then thrown into jail in Philippi for “teaching the people to do things that (were) against Roman customs” (v.21). They saw this situation as another chance to evangelize and praise God. Everyone was listening to Paul and Silas while they sang praises and prayed while they were imprisoned. Then there was an earthquake and the foundations of the jail shook and all their chains were broken.
The inner freedom that Paul and Silas experienced came from worshipping God in a dreadful circumstance. This freedom revolutionized the situation, and as their literal chains fell off, they shared the gospel with their jailer who accepted it, and his entire family got saved as well.
Process:
- What are some other ways we can start revolutions? Preaching, singing etc...
- When we praise, a revolution begins in us and we can’t help but impact those who hear us. Are our praises shaking foundations? Are they starting revolutions? Is your praise to God true, real, and heartfelt?
- How can we make a positive witness in our lives everyday? How can we represent Christ well? What methods might seem good, but aren’t a good representation? Think through the ways in which Christ can be seen in your everyday choices and make sure they represent Him well.
- What areas is God calling you to join Him in? To leave? To remain? (Pray these over)
Posted By: Eric at 11:42 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 15
Monday, July 09, 2007
Monday, July 9th
Read: Acts 15
Rules were made to be broken, right? Well, not exactly. But there’s good news. In Old Testament times, people were bound to rules. The consequences for breaking or bending the Jewish customs were extremely harsh. A fate of being stoned to death easily awaited anyone who was unwilling to follow the directions of the temple priests or government rulers.
Thankfully, we’ve been redeemed! “He personally carried away our sins in his own body on the cross so we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. You have been healed by his wounds!” (see 1 Peter 2:24) This is the new covenant: the gift of life! The trouble with rules is that they are impossible to keep because of man’s sinful nature. Therefore, sin is inevitable. But Jesus not only took our sins, He caused the curtain to be torn that separated between us and God (see Matthew 27:51). This means that we have direct access to God and because He calls us His children, we also have the rights of sons and daughters. With God’s power in us, nothing is impossible.
But still, questions remain. What’s the point of the law if we’re completely covered and spoken for because of the blood of Jesus? And if laws can’t help us earn forgiveness or salvation, why do we as a Church harbor so much legalistic bitterness toward other brothers and sisters? First, let’s remember that we must not judge others (non-believers), especially in the area of salvation. God alone knows someone’s heart. Peter said this: "Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles might hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are" (vs.8-11).
God fulfilled the law for our benefit, but we’re given a choice to follow them or not; a personal choice, that is. Following the law is one of the many ways we display our love for God and our devotion to Him. However, they don’t give us salvation or help us earn forgiveness. New life comes to us through Christ when we confess our sins and forsake them, that is, accepting His forgiveness and provision. Fullness of life comes when we embrace His commands and choose to intentionally love Him. When we don’t live life under this truth, we quickly set up our own rules and laws for being a part of the Church. Yes, we need covenant, but we must not make new rules. Here is the difference: rules are given by the King alone and must be followed. Covenant is a privilege and a calling. It can be entered into by anyone but enforced by God alone.
Process:
- 1 Corinthians 13 demands that we live a life of love. Read it and do it. Don’t hold grudges. Be truthful, not condescending. How can you live a life of love everyday? What can you do for the Kingdom?
- Don’t try to earn God’s favor by what you do. Good works do bring a smile to His face, but we live under grace. No matter what you do that’s wrong, or what you don’t do that you should, He is faithful and won’t stop loving you.
- Be full of grace: Live every day remembering the new covenant. At the end of the day, go to Jesus and ask Him to show you where you need His grace. Be humbled and receive it. Then, freely give as you receive. In what areas of your life do you need God’s grace? Know that God’s grace is sufficient for you (see 2 Corinthians 12:9).
Posted By: Eric at 11:41 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 14
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Sunday, July 8th
Read: Acts 14
There’s no doubt about it. True revolutionaries live extraordinary lives. Put yourself in the shoes of Paul and Barnabas:
You walk into a new city. You scope it out, meet the people. There’s a chance people will accept you. There’s also a really good chance they’ll try to kill you. It seems everywhere you go, people want you dead. This might be the last place you tell anyone about Jesus. But something inside you can’t stop. Jesus is just too good to keep to yourself—you need to tell the world. So if it gets you killed, that’s okay.
Welcome to the life of Paul and Barnabas. These men constantly had a question all revolutionaries have to come to terms with: “Who’s on my side, and who isn’t?”
Unfortunately for these two, those who weren’t on their side usually wanted them dead. In Iconium they preached with God’s power so that many people believed in Christ. God even backed up their message by giving them the power to do miracles! A lot of people were buying into what Paul and Barnabas were doing. On the other hand, there were a lot of people who tried to kill them and Paul and Barnabas barely escaped with their lives.
Paul and Barnabas faced a completely different problem in the next town. When God gave Paul the power to heal, the people began to worship him and Barnabas as gods! This time, God’s messengers had a lot of people on their side, but for completely the wrong reasons. They were all about the flashy stuff, but they didn’t accept Jesus. To follow that up, Jews from Antioch came afterwards, got the crowd behind them, and stoned Paul.
Being a revolutionary isn’t easy. It nearly got Paul killed a lot of times, but because of his revolutionary commitment to Jesus, a lot of people heard the gospel and the course of history was changed forever. Jesus wants to use you just like he used Paul and Barnabas. You can be a revolutionary too. Are you willing to put yourself on the line to tell others about Jesus?
Process:
- Who will be on your side when you tell others about Jesus? Why do you want to be a revolutionary?
- Can you tell about a time when you felt you were in danger because of your faith?
Are you in it because it sounds fun/because you think you should/because someone else told you to, or are you in it because you want to follow Jesus?
- Can you say that you are fully committed and devoted to Jesus? What needs to happen for you to be able to honestly claim that?
Posted By: Eric at 11:39 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 13
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Saturday, July 7th
Read: Acts 13
Prayer and fasting aren’t exactly the most popular practices or disciplines in the Church today. In fact, few of us have been taught the life-changing, revolutionizing benefits of fasting even if we grew up in the Church. The early Christians believed in the importance of fasting. This belief is demonstrated in this chapter where they were fasting and praying to receive direction from God (vs.3-4).
It's a good thing that the elders of the church at Antioch were fasting, praying, and waiting on the Lord. And it was even better that they were obedient to his directions. As a result of their discipline and obedience, Paul and Barnabas were dedicated for special service to Jesus and sent out by the Holy Spirit to preach the Good News. Their Spirit led life brought revolution wherever they went.
In verse 15 we see how the people asked to hear from Paul and Barnabas. It says in the chapter “those in charge of the service (at the synagogue) sent them this message: “Brothers, if you have any word of encouragement for us, come and give it!” Paul and Barnabas were welcomed and sought out because they were travelers. They were a source of encouragement for the believers and also received encouragement from the believers.
Because of the power of their message, large crowds were drawn to hear Paul and
Barnabas preach. They offered the message of salvation to the Gentiles (v.44). The message that Jesus died for the Gentiles as well as the Jews was a very new and challenging concept. The God of Israel also had a plan for the Gentiles. This was a revelation that made some Jews very angry and jealous. The Jewish leaders in the crowd were angered and incited a mob against Paul and Barnabas to run them out of town. Praise the Lord that the message was preached despite its unpopularity! Paul and Barnabas shook the dust off their feet and continued to preach the Good News no matter the circumstances.
Process:
- What areas do you need to improve on in speaking the Gospel? Try seeking the Lord about this, and remember what our brother in Christ, Paul, writes through God's Holy Spirit in Philippians 4:13: "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."
- Are you as bold as they were, to speak the message of Jesus despite what kind of persecution you might face? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you.
- Has the Lord revealed anything to you lately that you have not followed through with? Don't worry—He is rich in love and patience. He also likes his children to be obedient. To help us with this, one thing to remember is what Jesus says: we actually love Him by obeying Him (John 14: 23 and 15:10) and we can ask Him for His help to do this, too.
Posted By: Eric at 11:38 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 12
Friday, July 06, 2007
Friday, July 6th
Read: Acts 12
Have you ever prayed for something, not really expecting God to answer, and were greatly surprised to see him act in response to your prayers? Have you ever prayed for something despite thinking that it wasn’t really possible for God to help? Prayer is a powerful thing. In God’s word it says that the prayers of righteous people are powerful and effective (see James 5:16). The prayers of the saints are like sweet smelling incense to the Lord and he loves to respond to them in his grace, mercy and justice (see Psalms 141:2). In Acts we see how the power of prayer did something revolutionary.
Chapter 12 talks about the tight spot Peter was in. He was placed in prison and about to be put on public trial because he preached about Jesus. The King—King Herod Agrippa—hated what was going on in the Church. He had the apostle James killed with a sword, and Peter arrested and under the guard of sixteen soldiers. It seems ridiculous to have one man (one non-violent Christian man, that is) being guarded by so many. What exactly was King Herod so afraid of? Perhaps he had good reason to fear—Peter's God had power far beyond any number of guards. Herod likely didn’t know the number of people Peter had praying for him but he did know that this stirring revolution was bad news for him and his authority over the people.
While Peter was in jail, an angel of the Lord stood before him, made the chains slip off his wrists, and walked out with him past the guards. The entire time, Peter thought that he was just having a vision and that in reality he was still sitting in the prison cell. But, it was really true—the Lord sent His angel and saved Peter from trial and more persecution. This was truly a miracle. Why did this happen to him? As it says in Acts “So Peter was kept in prison; but long and fervent prayer was offered to God by the Church on his behalf.” (v.5) The Lord sent an angel in response to the Church's earnest prayers on Peter's behalf.
I'm sure that many of the believers did not expect their prayers to be answered in such an extreme way, but our God is the kind of God who answers our prayers. When His people passionately cry out to Him without ceasing because one of their brothers is in trouble, He hears and does not turn a deaf ear. Angels are sent into action when the Lord's people pray.
Process:
- Do you really believe, wholeheartedly, that prayer has the power to change things?
- Have you ever felt the prayer of others in a very real and powerful way? Who do you know that needs the forces of heaven to help them? Do you really want the Lord to step in? Do you want it enough to earnestly pray for them?
- Write down some people who need you to pray for them. Take some time right now (or you may forget), and pray passionately for them. Keep praying. Persist. Be earnest. Then sit back and watch the Lord fight for you. He is faithful.
Posted By: Eric at 11:36 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 11
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Thursday, July 5th
Read: Acts 11
Have you ever been put in charge of a “situation?” That is, something that has started up and needs someone with some degree of authority to deal with it? If you have, did you look at the task at hand and feel full of joy? If you didn’t, think about what you can learn from the revolutionary leadership of Barnabas—the “Son of Encouragement.”
Now the believers who had been scattered from Jerusalem (Acts 8:1) couldn’t be quiet about the good news of Jesus Christ. They couldn’t help but preach the word of God wherever they went. They went about telling their fellow Jews about the fulfillment of the Messianic promise (Jesus). There were some revolutionaries amongst the group that went to Antioch. They believed the truth that the good news of Jesus was for everyone, not just the Jews (vs.21-22). A large number of Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord because of their revolutionary work.
What was the result of these revolutionaries and the way they followed unpopular beliefs? The church that started at Antioch was a mixed church, made up of both Jews and Gentiles. No longer were Christ’s followers thought of as just a sect of Jews; they were emerging as something quite different and they started to be called something other then Jewish (v.26). When the church at Jerusalem heard of this they were quick to send a leader out to see just what was going on. Change was happening and they were unsure it was a good thing.
When Barnabas, a Levite (4:36), arrived on the scene at Antioch, he was quick to see the work of the Spirit and began to encourage those around him to stay close to the Lord (v.23). Barnabas was on the cutting edge of ministry. No other church that had formed was so distinctive from Judaism. Thousands of years of tradition and customs were being challenged. What did Barnabas do when confronted with this situation? Try to enforce that people must conform in order to control the situation? No! He looked to see what God was doing, and partnered with God in His work.
Sometimes we’re faced with people whose attitude is that of those at the church in Jerusalem. When new and different things are happening they question, maybe criticize and frustrate what is happening. Sometimes they are working against the Lord by trying to slow down the work of revolution. We need to have the same attitude of Barnabas. Instead of being discouraged and allowing our efforts to be diminished, we need to press on and follow God and encourage His work and His people.
Process:
- What new things do you see God doing in your area/church/community?
- How do you see His Spirit at work?
- How can you partner with God to see Him glorified and His kingdom come?
- Do you generally embrace change or try to diminish it?
Posted By: Eric at 11:33 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 10
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Wednesday, July 4th
Read: Acts 10
The world we live in today is filled with an abundance of ethnic groups and religions, often living in close quarters. People from all over the world can be found in almost every major city. In fact, it’s possible that every day you interact with at least two or three people from a different ethnic background or faith. It’s pretty normal behavior when we connect most closely and feel most comfortable around those who are the most similar to us. Sometimes we get into a habit, however, of only seeking out relationships with people of our own culture or heritage or social class or background. Sometimes we fear what is different because it takes more effort to create connections with people who are different than us.
In Bible times we see an enormous amount of segregation between cultures and ethnic groups. Peter was a Jew and for most of his life didn’t associate with Gentiles. So in this chapter of Acts we see that it took Peter a while to realize through his encounter with Cornelius that the Lord actually wanted him to go and meet with a Gentile in his own home. Remember, this was strictly forbidden in Jewish law because Gentiles and their households were unclean!
Peter took a risk and went. When he preached to Cornelius and his household, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. The lives of Cornelius and his family members were revolutionized. Cornelius likely had a significant amount of influence over those in his work, too, as he was the Captain of his regiment. Peter’s risk very likely impacted those working under Cornelius too as they would see the power of the gospel and the change the Holy Spirit did in his life. Peter could have started a Jesus revolution in the Italian regiment because he followed the Lord’s leading.
Peter and the brethren were amazed at what had happened, and realized that God does not restrict salvation to just one group or race of people. The fact that the gospel came to the Gentiles was huge for the Jews. It meant that God had a plan for them as well. Now the Gentiles were always welcome to have God’s blessings, but they had to become part of Israel for those blessings up to this point in time. But now it meant that anyone could experience God’s blessings, without being a Jew! Salvation is for the ‘whosoever.’ Sometimes our thinking is stuck in a rut. We stay inside the box and question God, as Peter did, when he instructs us to do something out of the ordinary and possibly against what we’ve always believed.
We must examine our thoughts and actions moment by moment through God’s filter (the Word). The truth of the gospel is not just for those who we expect will be open to receive it. The truth of the gospel is not just for those who fit into a profile that we have conjured up in our mind.
There are people you walk by and maybe even talk to every day who have not yet received salvation. They may even have a different faith. Would you consider telling them about the joy that Jesus Christ brings? It is God's desire that all would be saved. Let's do our best to fulfill our Lord's desire. Let’s cast off spiritual prejudices, proclaiming truth in the name of Jesus by our words, and the way we live, so that the Gentile nations and people of different faiths come to know the one true God and experience him through Jesus.
Process:
- Do you have any spiritual prejudices? Would you even consider having a meal in the home of a Muslim, a Buddhist or a Jehovah's Witness?
- Do you know how to witness to people of other faiths? Consider learning about them so that you have a deeper understanding of them and their faith.
- Do you have any prejudices of any kind against others (lifestyle, looks, ideas, etc.)?
We are all created and loved by God. All people are equal in his sight because they are all his creation.
- In what ways can you love and present the Gospel to those who are different than you?
Posted By: Eric at 11:26 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 9
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Tuesday, July 3rd
Read: Acts 9
The word “revolution” means "an assertedly momentous change in any situation." In this Jesus revolution we want to see a momentous change in the world around us—people living their lives in fullness for Jesus! But the change we want to see in our world first has to happen with us first. We can’t preach an empty gospel; that is, one that hasn’t first changed us.
Saul/Paul was bad news for the 'followers of the way' (early Christians). He was there when the first Christian martyr, Stephen, was killed for his faith in Jesus. He had risen to become one of the top leaders and ruthless persecutors of Christians of his day. You can see in verse 1 that he was 'breathing out murderous threats' against them and trying to lock them up or kill them (v.2).
Then Saul of Tarsus encountered Jesus Christ. There was an 'assertedly momentous change' in his life. In less than a week Saul went from zealously persecuting Jesus to zealously preaching in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. Now THAT is revolution! His life was turned upside down; his mission and purpose for living had completely reversed! (On a side note, Saul (Paul) will later use this experience of seeing the risen Christ to validate his apostolicity.)
Jesus really wants us to meet Him so that He can do this revolution in and through us. He wants us to experience Him in such a way so that we turn 180 degrees from our sin. He wants us to literally 'go and sin no more.' You may not be the worst of all sinners but there are likely places in you that need to be revolutionized. And think of the hardest, meanest, darkest person you know. God wants to do the same work in him/her as he did in Saul! That is good news if I’ve ever heard any.
Do you know what happened to Saul after he allowed God to do this work in him? He lead a hard life, facing persecution, death threats, hardship, imprisonment and, eventually, execution. But he ended up writing most of the New Testament (a source of deep encouragement and truth for us today) and brought the Truth of Jesus Christ to the furthest reaches of the known world! This guy experienced personal revolution and then took that Jesus revolution to everyone around him!
The key to revolutionary change lies in verse 17—“he sent me that you may...be filled with the Holy Spirit.” When we allow the Holy Spirit to fill us entirely, He changes us. He revolutionizes us!
The song Send the Fire by William Booth (see SASB #203) talks of this experience and describes what happens when God sends the Fire of His Holy Spirit to fill us:
To burn up every trace of sin,
To bring the light and glory in,
The revolution now begin,
Send the fire!
Process:
- What are some ways that you have been living a revolutionary life? What else can you do to present the glory of God to others? Ask Holy Spirit to fill you. Ask Him to remove any part of you that remains without the light of Christ. Ask Him to make a revolution happen in you; for Him to make you holy. Receive it by faith, and then walk it out in your life, in your world and in your relationships with people.
Posted By: Eric at 11:24 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 8
Monday, July 02, 2007
Monday, July 2nd
Read: Acts 8
At times you may have fallen into the trap of assuming that certain people don’t want to hear truth/the good news. And because of that assumption, some people have missed out on a life changing event. Sometimes we make judgments about people based on how they dress, where they’re from, or their reputation. It’s an easy trap to fall into. You might assume that the girl who sits next to you in class who dresses ‘Goth’ wants nothing to do with what you have to share. Or, that your Muslim neighbor wouldn’t want to listen to God’s truth about Jesus. How about the marijuana smoking ‘hippie’ who talks about peace and harmony? Does he have the whole truth in his life? We never know who is ready to hear truth in fullness (the gospel) unless we ask and allow the Holy Spirit to lead us.
Truth is revolutionary. As humans we are born with the instinct to search for, know and experience truth. Sometimes we’re fooled into believing that we have truth yet we still have a sense of being incomplete. In this chapter of Acts we read about three people from very different circumstances, yet each of them desired truth. First, we read about Philip who was preaching in Samaria. Next we’re introduced to Simon who lived in Samaria and was a successful and famous sorcerer. Finally, we read of the Ethiopian man who was returning home after making a trip to Jerusalem. In all three cases, truth revolutionized their lives.
We know from the scriptures that Philip was a man of faith. He was a disciple of Jesus and became an apostle, sent out to spread the news of Christ to the ends of the earth. Philip experienced a life change through his relationship with Christ and allowed God to work through him as a revolutionary. Philip believed so strongly in the truth he knew that even amidst persecution (v.1-3) he continued to preach the Good News of Jesus. He went to Samaria and told the people there about the Messiah. Many believed the truth and there was much joy there because of the signs and wonders that happened. Simon recognized that the power of God seen through Philip was stronger than the magic he performed. He, too, believed the gospel, was baptized and followed Philip and the truth he spoke. He even went as far as to offer money in order to receive the power of the Holy Spirit. I guess he still had some more to learn about truth; God’s power can not be bought or controlled.
Philip was directed by an angel of the Lord to travel south. On a road he was led by the Holy Spirit to walk alongside the chariot of an Ethiopian man whom he overheard reading the scriptures. This man was actually reading God’s word but didn’t understand what he was reading. He was searching for truth but didn’t have the ears to hear what God was saying to him through it. Praise the Lord for Philip and his ability to hear the Lord; the Ethiopian man was led into truth that revolutionized his life! The Ethiopian believed and was saved. Hallelujah.
God wants to use us in the same way that he used Philip. In Galatians 5:25 Paul reminds us that if we “walk with the Spirit, we must also keep in step with the Spirit.” That’s exactly what Philip did; he was in tune with what the Holy Spirit was doing and waited for His guidance. The fruit of his conversations and preaching is a testament to the power that was working within him. Philip wasn’t an out of the ordinary kind of guy. He was simply chosen and called by Jesus to be his disciple. We, too, are chosen. Jesus desires to use us as agents of truth and fullness.
Process:
- Have you ever experienced a ‘divine encounter,’ an experience that seemed more than just coincidence? That is, a time when God connected you with someone who needed to hear truth? Pray for more opportunities today and ask the Holy Spirit to prepare you and guide you as they occur.
- Can you identify with lost and searching people such as Simon? Pray that the Lord would give you a passion for souls and a love for the lost and let him take over as you spread the truth of the good news!
Posted By: Eric at 11:17 AM : Link : 0 Comments
RevoDevos – Day 7
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Sunday, July 1st
Read: Acts 7
There are many things wrong with the Church today. We see hypocrisy, dead religion, a lack of love, apathy about things God really cares about, and the list goes on. What do we do about these things? Some people keep quiet, some people speak privately about them and some people speak publicly about them. While Jesus was on the earth he said that the way to know if we love God is to watch for obedience to his commands. We are to speak when God wants us to speak and we are to speak what God wants us to speak. Are we always obedient to when and what the Lord is prompting us to say?
Stephen, in Acts, was a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit and he had a holy discontent for the way things were. Stephen spent his time administering the food distribution in the church, doing signs and wonders, and speaking with those in the synagogues. He spoke of things that the people around him didn’t like or agree with. Stephen continued to speak up despite opposition because he knew he was speaking God’s words. Stephen was filled with the Holy Spirit; the words that came out of his mouth were from God. We, too, need the Holy Spirit’s help and counsel in order to speak in a revolutionary way today.
Stephen also knew what he was talking about; he knew history. He was informed. He knew that the times he lived in were a direct fulfillment of prophecy. Are we the same? Do we make educated statements or are we sometimes clumsy with what we say? Words have power. We need to make sure we only speak words that are from God. And when you do speak words from the Lord, don’t be surprised if you get opposition.
In this chapter Stephen primarily was pointing out the sins and blindness of those in opposition to his message with the backing of God’s word. They had rejected Christ and his message. They had murdered their Messiah! Stephen reminded them of what the prophets said so long ago and how their own actions fulfilled these prophecies. They were infuriated by what he said and couldn’t believe he had the guts to say it!
God speaks to people’s hearts to convict them, and people don’t like to be made aware of their sin. Sometimes he chooses to use other people to reveal sin and to bring conviction to our hearts. Our reaction to what we hear is what will be revolutionary or not. We have a choice to let conviction revolutionize our life or cause us to go deeper into disobedience and hard-heartedness.
When you speak on behalf of the Lord you will get persecuted for speaking truth—whether it is for the purpose of bringing conviction or not. Make sure it is God’s words you are getting persecuted for; that it’s God’s voice you are following. Test it with the scriptures. Would you really gain anything if you were persecuted for the words of your own mouth and not the words of the Living God?
Process:
- If God were to speak a revolutionary message to you for the Church, are you prepared to give it?
- Do you guard the words that come out of your mouth? Do you test them with the scriptures?
- Do you rely on God’s understanding instead of your own?
- Do you receive what God says to you through others or do you reject words that convict and make you feel uncomfortable?
- Again, how might you understand the way(s) God speaks? And what are you doing with what you hear?
Posted By: Eric at 11:15 AM : Link : 0 Comments
