Resistance

Acts 19:8-10

“8 He entered the synagogue and for three months spoke out boldly, and argued persuasively about the kingdom of God. 9 When some stubbornly refused to believe and spoke evil of the Way before the congregation, he left them, taking the disciples with him, and argued daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. 10 This continued for two years, so that all the residents of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord.  11 God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 12 so that when the handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, their diseases left them, and the evil spirits came out of them.”

Paul’s gospel message encountered resistance wherever he preached.  Ephesus was no different.  Paul had to leave the synagogue in which he spoke for three months because of this resistance.  Yet, God continued to lead and work through Paul and many people were converted to the faith.

When we encounter resistance in our lives we often become angry, or discouraged.  We may even want to give up, thinking, “It’s not worth it.”

Paul once wrote that he had learned to be content in any situation (Philippians 4:11-13).  No matter the outcome, no matter the obstacle, Paul knew that God was with him and that he was doing God’s will.

“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)