Devotion:
Read Acts 19:23-27.
This scene (the whole story takes up the whole chapter) tells how Paul’s teaching about Jesus challenged the thinking and ways of the world. Paul was teaching that there was no other god than the one true God and that idols were not to be worshipped. In this case, he was teaching that in the city of Ephesus, location of the temple to the goddess Artemis. Craftsmen made a lot of money selling trinkets and shrines and Paul’s teaching was causing people to stop purchasing these idols. This text tells about one of those craftsmen stirring up the crowd against Paul and his people because they were hurting business and therefore hurting the economy of the city. That will always get people stirred up! If you read further in the story, you see that stirring turned into an uproar, with a huge throng of people gathered at the city theater.
I am reminded of the scene we looked at yesterday, when Jesus cleared the Temple in Jerusalem of those who were robbing the people, turning that holy place into a den of thieves. He still calls on those who would represent him to challenge anyone and anything in this world that is opposed to the Way and Spirit of God. When people are being done wrong, we are called to speak up, to take a stand, to protest. When people are being led astray, we are called by God to shed light on what is happening and do all we can to help people see and follow the Way who is Jesus Christ. It may (and probably will) upset some, even many. Just remember that Jesus has gone before you on this path and will be with you as you travel it.
Personal Worship Option:
Is there some person, group or activity that you perceive are leading people away from the Way and Spirit of God? Pray for wisdom and courage in how to best confront those involved.
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