4.13.25 | Pastor J.B. Lawley
This passage from Acts 14 shows how Paul and Barnabas face persecution for sharing the Gospel of grace. This message, offering God's love as a free gift despite our sin, challenges those who seek to control others through religious works. The Gospel confronts both worldly and religious hypocrisy, revealing our need for humility, repentance, and faith.The Gospel's power to transform hearts often provokes anger from those whose idols are threatened. Just as Paul was stoned for proclaiming God's love, believers today may face opposition for living boldly for Jesus. Yet, the motivation to persevere comes from the same grace that saved us. We share the Gospel because it is the Hope of the World, and even those who persecute need to know Jesus.Like Paul, our lives as believers are a race of perseverance. We are strengthened by the church, our community of fellow believers, to continue the mission to go and share the Gospel. We are called to be both bold and steadfast, trusting in God's promises and the eternal glory that awaits those who finish well. Let our lives echo the Gospel, leading those we love into eternity with Jesus.