Saul becomes Paul and the first missionary journey of Paul begins. This is a long chapter that will do us good to read and understand. Paul teaches in the Synagogue on the Sabbath, he went when he knew the people would be there. From verses 16 through the end of the chapter we are given a great overview of the Old Testament and a clear picture of the gospel. Read it striving to follow each event and connect the characters Paul talks about.
There are two prophets mentioned in the beginning of the chapter. One prophet is working in the church and helps lead the people to select Paul and Barnabas as missionaries to be sent out from the church. Side note: Our church should be sending out missionaries, and starting new works as much as possible. Back to the prophets; why don’t we have prophets today? The scriptures seem to do away with the activity of prophets on their own as the scripture is completed. Many in the early church age saw less of a need for the office or gift of a prophet as we received the Holy Word of God. The role of teacher of God’s Word replaced that gift. There are some people today who claim this office. But if you want to claim the position, and you are incorrect even by the smallest detail you must be done away with as a false prophet. I think we have people who have the gift of discernment, and can discern the times. These people share and give great wisdom to how we should function as God’s people. The most prophetic word we have and need today is to look for Christ’ return, and live as if He may return today.
Please also notice the church was fasting and praying. Prayer meetings are the least attended and the most important corporate function as God’s Church. We should spend days fasting, coming together to pray and seek God’s direction, and God’s power. Would you attend a week of prayer? This would be a time where the members are asked to fast from morning to the evening coming together at 6pm to pray? Eating only a light meal after prayer with the understanding we will meet again the next day. Would you come? I believe this would send the power of God and start true revival.
Keep on listening to God through His Word. He is speaking clearly, we just need to open up His Word.
Comments are closed