Steady Obedience: No Matter the Obstacles
Acts 21:1-25
At Calvary Church, I recently taught Acts chapter 21 and the theme of steady obedience despite obstacles. The Apostle Paul encourages us as we follow his journey and the various challenges he faced. We see his obedience and steadfastness over and over again. Let’s break down the critical points of this chapter to help you grow in your personal walk with the Lord.
Did you know that fellowship can deeply strengthen your faith journey? Paul demonstrates this for us with his departure from Miletus and his arrival in Tyre, where he seeks out disciples and stays with them for seven days. This stresses the importance of fellowship and support from other believers. Involving others in ministry, especially your family, can create lifelong bonds and spiritual growth. Let’s remember that walking together in faith can make us stronger.
Forgiveness can be one of the most powerful expressions of grace. Paul experienced this firsthand when Philip the Evangelist, who witnessed the stoning of Stephen, an event Paul was complicit in, welcomed him into his home. Imagine the profound forgiveness and grace that Philip must have encountered to embrace Paul after such a traumatic event. This reminds us that forgiveness can transform our lives and relationships with others.
Have you ever struggled with staying faithful to your calling despite internal doubts and external pressures? Paul exemplifies this steady obedience despite all obstacles. Even after warning after warning from well-meaning believers and friends, he remains resolute in his mission to Jerusalem. This teaches us the importance of discerning God’s voice as opposed to the voice of others and remaining unmoved in our calling, even when the path is fraught with challenges.
However, navigating through the various voices that try to influence us can be tricky. From self-doubt to cultural pressures and even well-intentioned advice from other believers, these voices can lead us astray and sometimes are just lousy counsel. You and I must tune into God’s voice above all else. In Acts 21, Paul faced warnings and concerns from his friends and family in Christ, but he continued to move forward in what the Lord had for him, even though it was hard. Despite the challenges, Paul’s determination to deliver an offering to the church in Jerusalem underscores the importance of keeping one’s word and fulfilling our commitments. The same is true for us. Let your yes be yes and no be no, and follow through with integrity and faithfulness.
Success, in God’s eyes, often looks different from worldly success. Paul’s journey teaches us that real success is being faithful to God’s calling, even when it involves suffering and a lack of recognition. Our outlook on a situation will change as we redefine success, emphasizing faithfulness over outcomes. Remember, God is responsible for the results; our role is to obey and stay committed.
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