PROCLAIMING CHRIST FAITHFULLY DESPITE ANGRY OPPOSITION     Acts 14:8-4;19-23

When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. (vv21-22)

At the aftermath of Paris massacre, Rev. Remp, an evangelical pastor in Lyon, France notes, “We are more convinced that we have to preach the Gospel, because only the Gospel can change human hearts. This is true of the conviction Paul and Barnabas had to preach the Gospel. It could be recalled that Paul and Barnabas left Iconium and Lystra following angry opposition and threat to their lives. In the two cities, miraculous things happened through them and many souls were saved. Their return to the cities was a result of their love and concern for the new converts (v21). They had concern for their spiritual growth and maturity in the faith. Paul and Barnabas never neglected them.

As we proclaim Christ, angry opposition and violent attacks are likely to happen. We should not be discouraged and call it quits. Our desire should be to make disciples of Christ irrespective of the inconvenience it may cost. As you, your family or church win souls for Christ, ensure you mentor them until they are fully – grown and mature in the faith. Opposition should not stop us from preaching Christ. Design a timetable, by which you can visit and encourage new converts.

PRAYER LINE: O Lord, grant me the courage to continue the mission You have committed to my hands in spite of opposition (NBC)

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God’s spirit gives the power to our witness.