The Mission Continues: A Devotional on Acts 12:25-15:35
October 23
Scripture: Acts 12:25-15:35 (NIV)
In Acts 12:25-15:35, we witness the ongoing mission of the early church as it spreads the gospel message to both Jews and Gentiles. This passage highlights key events such as the missionary journeys of Paul and Barnabas, the Jerusalem Council, and the growth of the church despite opposition and challenges. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the disciples boldly proclaim the message of salvation, establishing new churches and nurturing believers in their faith.
One important verse from this passage is:
Acts 13:47 (NIV):
"For this is what the Lord has commanded us: 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'"
In this verse, Paul and Barnabas quote from Isaiah 49:6 to explain their mission to the Gentiles. They recognize that God's plan of salvation extends beyond the Jewish people to include all nations. As recipients of God's grace and mercy, they are called to be instruments of His light, bringing the message of salvation to the ends of the earth.
This verse emphasizes the universal scope of God's redemptive plan and the importance of sharing the gospel with people from every nation, tribe, and tongue.
The Jerusalem Council, described in Acts 15:1-35, is another significant event in this passage. At the council, the apostles and elders come together to address the question of whether Gentile believers must be circumcised and follow the law of Moses to be saved.
Through prayer, discussion, and guidance from the Holy Spirit, they affirm that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. This decision paves the way for the inclusion of Gentiles into the body of Christ and underscores the foundational truth that salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of their ethnicity or background.
As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of our responsibility as followers of Christ to share the gospel with others and make disciples of all nations. Like Paul and Barnabas, we are called to be lights in a dark world, proclaiming the message of salvation to those who are lost and in need of hope.
We are also reminded of the importance of unity within the body of Christ, as demonstrated by the Jerusalem Council, and the need to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in all matters of faith and practice.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Paul, Barnabas, and the early church in spreading the gospel to the Gentiles.
Help us to be faithful witnesses of Your love and grace, sharing the message of salvation with boldness and compassion. Grant us unity within the body of Christ, that we may be a shining light in a world that desperately needs Your hope and truth.
Guide us by Your Spirit in all that we do, that Your kingdom may come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
