Boldly, Freely

Acts 28:30-31 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
 
THESE are appropriate words to conclude Acts. For nearly seven months, about 200 commentaries, we’ve witnessed the church begin with Jesus’ ascension, the Spirit’s empowering tongues of fire and the apostles and evangelists boldly preaching the kingdom of God. Salvation in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ changed the status quo and resurrected lost souls. Through Luke’s history, we’ve witnessed thousands enter the kingdom of God in one day. The Spirit has shown us miraculous healings for the lame and chain-breaking exorcism for the demon possessed.
   Luke has also faithfully reveled the gospel’s savage opposition. The gifted Stephen and anointed apostle James were among the first martyrs. Peter’s, Paul’s, Silas’ and Barnabas’ sufferings included beatings and imprisonment. Through the spiritual storm, God opened doors. The Lord of the Church is the victor. He prospered his church with salvation, and he sifted it with tribulation.
   This is how Jesus’ church began, and this is how it is today. Boldly and without hindrance the church is to proclaim the gospel. Yes, the church has been and will be hindered with oppressive laws and demonic suppression. But the most destructive hindrance is lack of passion for Jesus. People who love their Lord with all their heart, mind, soul and strength will confront the opposition with a determined focus for the reveal Jesus’ salvation. Faith-filled disciples know the cross the Spirit gives us to bear is a mark of Jesus’ favor. When we believe Jesus died to give us life, we understand our lives belong to him. He will use us to his glory and his purpose for his eternal church.
   As their ministry began, Peter and John faced the judging Pharisees. But that did not concern them because they knew they were fully obeying his command, “Come follow me.” They understood that pathway includes suffering and it includes resurrection. At the end of the battle there is always eternal victory in Jesus. With a joyful faith they prayed, “Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One. Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. 28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” (Acts 4:25-30)
      This is a good prayer to keep in mind as your life is an active response to Jesus’ resurrection.