215 Monday, August 3, 2009

215 Amos 1 - 3; Acts 24

Have you ever thought that God is too tough on Israel? I have and was not the first one. If it has ever entered your mind that it sure seems severe in what God is doing to His chosen people then maybe these verses will help a little bit.
Amos 3:1-2 (MSG)
1 Listen to this, Israel. God is calling you to account—and I mean all of you, everyone connected with the family that he delivered out of Egypt. Listen!
2 "Out of all the families on earth, I picked you. Therefore, because of your special calling, I'm holding you responsible for all your sins."
Israel had it soooo good and they did not take advantage of a good situation. They not only did not take advantage of a great situation they went out and trampled all over what God had given them to live out a good life. We sometimes do not like this truth, but with special privileges comes a special responsibility. With more light comes more inspection. Israel could not in any way or fashion claim ignorance as to what God desired for them and from them. It was high handed disobedience. When we see people with special talent and they squander it away it causes us some dismay. When we see people that have lived a privileged life by being given a great education, having a great network of friends, and a wonderful position in life and they squander it away we almost get mad. Most of these people we don’t even know. God reached down and hand picked the Jews and they squander it all away. May we not do the same!

Is Paul ever going to get out of dodge? Will the Romans ever hear the gospel? Will Timothy ever get his second letter? Wow! Paul is still defending himself which means he is still preaching the gospel. The best defense is a real good offense. Here is some of what he said to the governor,
Acts 24:14-15 (MSG)
14 "But I do freely admit this: In regard to the Way, which they malign as a dead-end street, I serve and worship the very same God served and worshiped by all our ancestors and embrace everything written in all our Scriptures.
15 And I admit to living in hopeful anticipation that God will raise the dead, both the good and the bad. If that's my crime, my accusers are just as guilty as I am.
Guilty as charged if I am being charged in believing in the resurrection of the dead. Of course, Paul believes in the resurrection of the dead more than ever since meeting Jesus. Paul had a wonderful way with words and this came from his gifting as well as the power of the Holy Spirit. Next time you are feeling like you have to defend your faith make sure you pray before you speak. Ask God to give you the right words and then keep on praying during the conversation.