Every Sabbath he (Paul) reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks. When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. But when they opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.” (Acts 18:4-6)
Paul, previously a persecutor of Christians, had more blood and guilt on his hands than most. He knew better than anyone the peace we can have through Jesus, so he was willing to repeatedly suffer abuse so others could know Him.
He worked full time as a tentmaker, so he wouldn’t be a burden to anyone and preached in his spare time. But when Silas and Timothy brought money from the church in Macedonia, Paul devoted all of his time testifying that Jesus saves because that knowledge gave him life.
Christ crucified is an undemanding message. Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice to take away our wrongdoings and guilt so we can have peace and receive and give God’s love. Religion and other rules shouldn’t be involved. Jesus taught one commandment: Love God and others. It’s that simple.
When we believe in Jesus, blood will never be on our hands or heads. He makes us innocent and removes our guilt.
Father, I praise You for sending Jesus to save me. Let my loved ones know how easy it is to have a relationship with Him and know His love and peace. Let me spread His love. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.
I have been thinking about this devotion. It should be so simple to believe in and love Christ. Religions have made rules that get in the way of how it is supposed to be. If you don’t follow the rules, your damned. Yet, I don’t really believe it is so simple. If you truly believe in Christ and ask for forgiveness for your sins, it can be that simple. Some horrible things have been done in the name of religion. Also, there are people who say they are Christians, but commit murder or other crimes against people. I don’t think it as simple as I believe in Christ, so I do not have blood on my hands.
Today, I am praying for patience and that people will help me as I go through a difficult process. I am also praying for Drew, you and Sam and all of our kids. Have a blessed day, Jody. I love you!
I love you too, Sis. It is humans that make receiving God’s love so difficult. God wants it to be easy. You are right. It is more than believing, it is submitting to His love. The enemy believes in Jesus but fears Him. I prayed for all of us also. Blessings, Jody