April 26, 2016

It was a unique time, as were the circumstances. But, it's hard not to yearn for a repeat today of what happened then. In Acts 19, we read such things as, "God was performing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul" (Acts 19.11), and, "the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing." (Acts 19.20) 

Such words hardly seem descriptive of our time and circumstances. So, were these things for a specific purpose at that time, and no longer necessary today? Certainly, they were necessary then as the Church was being established, and the written record of Scripture was not yet finalized. But, that rationale may not adequately explain their absence, or near absence, today. This much is certain: such things occurred amidst clear and focused proclamation of the message of the kingdom of God (Acts 19.8-10). Genuine and open repentance of sinful practices was taking place (Acts 19.18-19). 

God through Christ can obviously do what He chooses whenever and wherever. If He should choose to "reenact Acts" today, it will be in harmony with what we see here. A clear, focused proclamation of Jesus and the kingdom of God. Genuine repentance of sin and sinful practices. Only then can His Spirit be freely unleashed to work mightily.

If another chapter is to be added to the Book of Acts, so to speak, it will happen as we do our part to be faithful to the message, and faithful to an authentic lifestyle. Let's do our part, and anticipate exciting things from the God of all possibilities.

 Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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