It’s All in the Name (Oct. 11)
Read: Acts 16:22-34
The Gospel is simple enough for anyone to understand, and we can take joy in the truth of who Jesus is and what He’s done.
Paul and Silas were in prison for casting out a demon from a young girl who had been taunting them for days. Her masters were furious and brought Paul and Silas before the magistrates accusing them of willful and seditious acts. The magistrate had them beaten and thrown into prison. Now they were sitting on a dirt floor with bruised and bleeding bodies chained to a cold, stone wall.
Were they complaining about the government and its unfair policies? Were they complaining about the magistrates or emperor who enacted the policies? No! They were singing praises to God! The other prisoners heard. The jailer heard.
When an earthquake hit, it shook the very foundations of the prison! Their chains were shaken free! If they were quick, they could run for it! But, they all stayed. The jailer was ready to kill himself with his sword until he heard a voice, “STOP! Don’t do that! We’re all here!” Imagine the jailer’s surprise! He would’ve received the same fate the prisoners were awaiting if any of them got away. He thought there was no hope.
The jailer fell on his knees and asked, “What must I do to be saved?” He knew why Paul and Silas were in prison. He had heard about what they had been preaching. He witnessed their response in prison, and now, he wanted what they had.
Paul’s simple response was full of meaning. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” Jesus is Lord of all creation and has a name above every other name. His parents were to call him Jesus because he was going to save his people from their sins. Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah, the one promised long ago who would come to suffer and die for our sins. Everything we need to know is wrapped up in that name, the Lord Jesus Christ. One just needs to simply believe, place their trust in the work Jesus has already done.
The jailer did that and brought his whole family with him. Then he was baptized as an outward expression of an inward belief and identification with Jesus Christ.
Our response to unpleasant circumstances and things we don’t agree with is a testimony to those around us which can either help or hinder our opportunity to share the Gospel.
Action Step: Next time you want to complain about your circumstances, sing a praise song or recite Scripture. Suggestions for songs – “10,000 Reasons” by Matt Redman or “How Great Thou Art”. Suggestions for Scripture – Psalm 100 or Psalm 103. Memorize these so they’re at your fingertips when needed.
Prayer: Lord God, may we be ever joyful because of who you are and not dependent on our circumstances. Help us to look to you with joy knowing you are Lord and in control.
Author: Marilynn Lester