Daily Readings - Fri May 26 2017
First Reading - Acts 18.9-18
Acts
Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.And he drave them from the judgment seat.Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.
Sermon
In today's reading from Acts 18:9-18, we witness Paul's unwavering commitment to his missionary work in Corinth. Despite facing persecution, Paul receives a vision from God, urging him not to fear and to continue preaching. This divine encouragement strengthens Paul, allowing him to stay in Corinth for over a year, spreading the Word of God. When accusations arise, the proconsul Gallio dismisses the charges, recognizing the matter as a religious dispute rather than a legal issue. This dismissal highlights the complex relationship between the early church and Roman authorities. Paul, after these events, departs Corinth, shaving his head as part of a vow, symbolizing his dedication and obedience to his faith.
The context of Corinth, a bustling and diverse city, sets the stage for Paul's significant missionary efforts. Corinth's strategic location made it a crucial place for spreading Christianity, yet it also presented challenges due to its cultural melting pot. The Jewish community's opposition to Paul reflects the broader struggles faced by early Christians as they navigated a world often hostile to their message. Gallio's indifferent response indicates that while authorities might not actively support the church, they could provide unintended relief by not persecuting its members.
This reading offers valuable lessons for our daily lives. Like Paul, we may encounter challenges and uncertainties, but trusting in God's presence and protection can bolster our courage. The story reminds us that our faith should be steadfast, even in the face of adversity. Furthermore, it shows that secular authorities can sometimes provide unexpected support, allowing the church to grow. As we navigate our own trials, we can draw strength from Paul's example, trusting in God's providence and continuing our mission with faith and perseverance.
In conclusion, the moral lesson from this passage is clear: trust in God's providence and stand firm in your faith. Just as Paul found courage in God's vision, we too can face life's challenges with confidence, knowing we are not alone. Let us embrace our own missionary call, whether in our communities or beyond, with the same dedication and trust that Paul exemplified.