by Elizabeth Etta
Acts 15:
This chapter stood out to me because of the disagreements. The Christian
walk is not without disagreements. We disagree on many issues like even within
our Catholic faith most people might disagree on certain things such as use of
contraceptives, homosexualism, pre-marital sex, living together without
marriage, whatever it may be.
Differences of views can often bring arguments which are not healthy
for the church and can discourage people, result in loss of souls rather than
salvation.
Reading this chapter, it is my believe that as Christians we
should not make it difficult for people who do not conform to the laws (for eg
being homosexual) At the end of the day, we are all trying to seek God and rather
than pass judgment, we need to instead preach love, repentance, forgiveness and
salvation. This must also be shown through our actions, how we act towards
others, what we say. Our job is to encourage rather than discourage and when we
do this, we allow the Holy Spirit to do the work on our hearts and minds.
Acts 16:
Timothy is introduced here as the man who joins Paul and Silas
on mission. Timothy was half Jewish and half Greek (Well, he must have been
good looking as all mixed kids I know are :) ). Anyway it is obvious that Paul
must have taken a liking to him. The brothers at Lystra and Iconium spoke
highly of him. This can only mean that he was a fervent follower of Christ.
Paul on meeting Timothy would have recognized that zeal in him and because of
Timothy's Jewish and Greek heritage, it is easy to see that he would have a
great influence leading people to Christ.
This chapter asks the question... In life what do you want to be
recognized for? Most importantly on the last day, what would you want God to
recognize you for?
Chapter 16 is another proof that God's salvation is indeed for
all.
Paul and Silas are imprisoned but when they start singing hymns to
God, an earthquake happens and everyone's chains are loosed. No doubt, this
would have led to conversion of the prisoners there. Also, had Paul and Silas
not been put in prison, then the jailer would not have been saved along with
his whole family.
Whatever situation you find yourself, good or bad, it is an opportunity
that God can use to the glory of His name and for our salvation..
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