Phil Rowlands

Hello, my friends!

Today, let's spend some time on a topic that touches every believer's heart: how God encourages us when we're discouraged, especially when facing opposition while spreading the gospel. Satan's primary tactic is to discourage us, trying to halt our progress. Consider the apostle Paul. Despite being beaten, insulted, and banished from Philippi, Paul remained undeterred and continued his mission with greater zeal (1 Thessalonians 2:2). Resistance is often designed to dishearten us, but God has a remarkable way of transforming these situations into opportunities for His glory.

In Thessalonica, Paul encountered significant challenges, yet God turned these difficulties into blessings. Paul employed a comprehensive approach in his ministry: reasoning with the people through dialogue, answering questions, explaining the Scriptures, providing evidence that Jesus is the Messiah, and boldly preaching the truth of Jesus' resurrection (Acts 17:2-3). The response was mixed; some were persuaded and joined the apostles, while others were hostile and incited a mob, accusing the apostles of turning the world upside down (Acts 17:4-6). Despite this fierce opposition, the gospel continued to spread powerfully. What appeared to be a setback was transformed into a powerful outreach opportunity, as evidenced by the widespread impact of their message (1 Thessalonians 1:8).

Paul's strategy of establishing churches in key cities was crucial for the broader dissemination of the gospel. By planting these spiritual hubs, he ensured that the message of Christ could radiate outward, touching numerous lives across vast regions. This approach is clearly seen in cities like Ephesus, where the gospel spread extensively throughout Asia (Acts 19:10, 26). God often uses our trials to forge new paths for His work, turning what seems like obstacles into stepping stones for the furtherance of His kingdom.

In Berea, Paul and his companions found a refreshing contrast to the hostility they had encountered elsewhere. The Bereans were noted for their noble character because they eagerly examined the Scriptures daily to verify the truth of Paul's message (Acts 17:11). This response highlights the importance of a teachable spirit and a diligent pursuit of truth. When we are well-grounded in what we believe, it becomes easier to stand firm against deception and false teachings. Knowing the truth intimately equips us to discern and reject what is false.

Moving to Athens, Paul found himself in a city renowned for its rich history of philosophy and idolatry. His spirit was deeply provoked by the pervasive idolatry, compelling him to preach both in the synagogue and the marketplace daily (Acts 17:16-17). In Athens, Paul encountered philosophers from two prominent schools of thought: the Epicureans, who advocated for a life of pleasure, and the Stoics, who emphasised endurance and self-control. These interactions presented unique challenges and opportunities for Paul to communicate the gospel's relevance to a diverse audience.

At the Areopagus, Paul delivered a profound and strategic message to the Athenians. He began by acknowledging their religiosity and introduced them to the “unknown God” whom they worshiped in ignorance. Paul proclaimed this God as the Creator of all things, who does not dwell in temples made by human hands nor is He served by human hands, for He Himself gives life and breath to all things. He emphasised that God is near to everyone, inviting them to seek Him and find Him. Paul concluded by highlighting God's righteous judgment through Jesus Christ, whom He raised from the dead, calling for repentance in light of this truth (Acts 17:22-31).

The response in Athens was characteristically mixed; some mocked, others delayed their decision, but a few believed and joined Paul. This pattern of varied reactions is a common theme in Paul's ministry, demonstrating that while not everyone will accept the gospel, those who do can have a profound impact on the community and beyond.

Paul's approach in Athens reminds me of a skilled bridge builder. Just as a bridge builder must understand both sides of a ravine to create a sturdy connection, Paul had to grasp both the Athenians' philosophical worldview and the truth of the gospel. He carefully constructed his message, anchoring one end in their cultural context (the altar to an unknown god) and extending across to the truth about the one true God. This “bridge” allowed the Athenians to cross over from their understanding to the gospel message, demonstrating the importance of building meaningful connections when sharing our faith.

In Corinth, Jesus provided personal encouragement to Paul in several remarkable ways. One of the key aspects of this encouragement was the provision of fellowship. Paul met Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers, who became close companions and co-workers in the ministry. The arrival of Silas and Timothy also brought great encouragement and support, counteracting the isolation Paul often faced (Acts 18:2, 5). Isolation is a major tactic of the enemy, and God addresses this by surrounding us with like-minded believers who can lift us up and share the burden.

Additionally, Paul received encouraging news and financial support, enabling him to devote himself fully to preaching the word without distraction. This support was crucial in allowing Paul to focus entirely on his ministry, expanding the reach and impact of the gospel. Moreover, Jesus provided Paul with a vision, assuring him of His presence and protection. In this vision, Jesus told Paul not to be afraid but to keep on speaking, promising that no one would harm him because He had many people in the city. This divine assurance gave Paul the confidence to stay in Corinth for a year and a half, teaching the word of God despite ongoing opposition (Acts 18:9-10).

The encouragement Paul received in Corinth can be compared to a sailor navigating through a storm. Just as a sailor relies on lighthouses, stars, and fellow crew members to guide the ship safely to harbor, Paul found guidance and support through various means. The fellowship of Aquila and Priscilla served as a steady lighthouse, offering a beacon of support in a tumultuous sea. The arrival of Silas and Timothy was like the appearance of familiar constellations, providing direction and comfort. Finally, the vision from Jesus acted as a divine compass, giving Paul the confidence to stay the course despite the tempests of opposition. These sources of encouragement ensured that Paul's ministry in Corinth stayed on course and reached its intended destination.

Friends, reflecting on all these events, we see Paul and Barnabas facing a blend of opportunities and challenges as they spread the gospel. In Iconium, their preaching led to a divided response, with many believing but also significant opposition. Despite threats, they boldly continued to proclaim the gospel, relying on the Lord to bear witness to their message through signs and wonders. In Lystra and Derbe, a miraculous healing led to both acceptance and misunderstanding, followed by severe persecution. Paul was stoned and left for dead, but he miraculously survived and continued his mission undeterred.

Through all these hardships, Paul and Barnabas remained steadfast in their mission. They strengthened and encouraged the disciples, urging them to remain faithful and reminding them that entering the kingdom of God often involves enduring many hardships. They also appointed elders in each church, ensuring leadership and continuity for the fledgling congregations. Upon returning to Antioch, they reported all that God had done through them, emphasising how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. This report highlighted God's provision, protection, and the expanding reach of the gospel despite significant challenges.

These narratives from Acts vividly illustrate how God encourages and sustains His people through various means, turning adversities into opportunities for the gospel's advancement. We see that resistance and challenges can actually propel the mission forward, fostering growth and outreach in unexpected ways. When we face discouragement, God is always there to provide the support we need, whether through fellowship with other believers, financial blessings, or personal encouragement from Jesus Himself.

Be blessed today, my brothers and sisters, and remember that God is always at work, turning our trials into triumphs for His glory. As we've seen through Paul's journeys, opposition and challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities for God to showcase His power and expand His kingdom. Like Paul, we may face mockery in our Athens, stones in our Lystra, or isolation in our Corinth, but God's grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

Let us draw encouragement from the key lessons of Paul's ministry:

1. Persistence in the face of opposition: Just as Paul continued preaching despite threats and persecution, we too must stand firm in our faith and mission.

2. Adaptability in sharing the gospel: Paul's approach in Athens teaches us to be sensitive to our audience while remaining true to the message.

3. The power of fellowship: God provides companionship and support through fellow believers, reminding us of the importance of Christian community.

4. Divine encouragement: Like Paul's vision in Corinth, God provides personal assurance and guidance when we need it most.

5. The transformative power of the gospel: Despite varied reactions, the message of Christ consistently changed lives and communities.

6. The importance of discipleship: Paul's practice of strengthening new believers and appointing leaders ensures the continuity of the faith.

As we face our own challenges in spreading the gospel, let us remember that God's work often thrives in the face of adversity. Our discouragements can become stepping stones for God's glory to shine even brighter. So, press on, dear friends, with unwavering faith and courage. For the same God who worked mightily through Paul is working through you today. Your trials may be the very soil in which God plants seeds of revival and transformation. Stand firm, be courageous, and watch as God turns your moments of weakness into powerful testimonies of His strength and love.

Phil