27 Reception or Rejection (Acts 17:1-15)

* In Acts 9, we saw the call and conversion of Saul of Tarsus. In that account, Jesus speaks to the prophet Ananias telling him to go and heal Saul. Ananias balks and Jesus states, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake." * As Paul began his ministry with Barnabas and they traveled proclaiming the gospel to the Jews and then to the Gentiles, Paul began to experience what Christ had proclaimed regarding him. Now, as he is traveling with Silas, Timothy and Luke, his suffering for the name of Jesus has continued. * The primary cause of that suffering is people's response to the gospel message. The good news of God's free gift of salvation from eternal condemnation is not always met with gladness! Rather, as Paul and his companions find out, it is many times with resistance, rejection, and persecution. * Today, we continue to see that pattern in the cities of Thessalonica and Berea. * As we consider how "others" receive or reject the message of the gospel, I must ask myself: how do I respond to God's message in His word? Do I receive or reject His Word of truth in my life? * This message was presented on April 30, 2023 by Bob Corbin.