Who Was I To Stand in God’s Way?

It has been trudgingly accomplished, but I have been able to get through most of the sermon today, Father. I know I struggled on my end but thank You for getting me to stick to it.

Acts 11:1-18 (<<click here to read the passage)

After the amazing way God had expanded His Kingdom to embrace non-Jews (Gentiles), it’s surprising to see the response back in Jerusalem. The Amplified Bible uses the word astonishment to describe their reaction, but it goes on to say that those of the circumcision [certain Jewish believers who followed the Law] took issue with Peter [for violating Jewish customs] v2 AMP

It’s hardly been any time at all that Jesus has been gone from their presence and already I can see Him at the right hand of the Father shaking His head…

Just like the Pharisees who had been more concerned about when Jesus healed (on the Sabbath – oh, my!) than about the man who had been healed of an infirmity that had plagued him from birth. They missed the point completely!

Their lament to Peter? “You went to uncircumcised men and [even] ate with them!” v3 AMP

First of all, whoopidy-dingdong! Yes, it was part of their long-held tradition but really?

So, to help pry their eyes open Peter began [at the beginning] and explained [the events] to them step by step… (v4 AMP) from his vision through all that God had led him through to bring the saving news of the Gospel to Cornelius and all of his family and friends.

The last line of his dialogue grabbed my attention.

And since God gave these Gentiles the same gift he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to stand in God’s way?” v17 NLT (emphasis mine)

That led me to think of the phrase, “Lead, follow, or get out of the way.”

I looked it up and found that it was attributed to Thomas Paine, a figure out of the time of America’s revolution who was an author that penned a number of influential pamphlets that served as a catalyst for the United States’ 1776 declaration of independence from Great Britain.

But after my mind had gone to that thought, I had to stop and think it through a bit. As followers of Jesus, He calls us to be active participants in His work here on earth. Some are gifted with leadership (and that includes those who would never ever think God that could use them that way – but He not only could, but He does!) The body of Christ also needs diligent followers, as well. Those who will faithfully follow His leading, wherever that may take them.

If we don’t find ourselves in either of those positions, then maybe it is best that we get ourselves out of the way! Now I’m sure not saying ditch on God but it might be best to spend a great amount of time praying and reading God’s word seeking His direction and enlightenment. Never doubt, He will show us how to move forward! Amen!

Apr 6^th, 2022, Wed, 4:49 pm