Acts 11:26 (nlt) --- When he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. Both of them stayed there with the church for a full year, teaching large crowds of people. (It was at Antioch that the believers were first called Christians.)
Something new. A revolution. Motivation. Power. Vision. Change.
No, this is not when Jesus hit the ground running, but it was when the church was already in full swing. The people who were Jesus followers began to get a name for themselves. Christian.
What does it mean? Why were they called that? Check for yourself.
For years I have understood this term to be one of respect and honor. It means to be a little Christ or to be part of His movement or family. Yet at Anitoch this was a slam, a slur and meant to mock the people who were following Jesus.
Understand what I getting at. Jesus came to earth to start something new. He didn't come to do away with the old (the Law God gave). Jesus came to fulfill that old part. That is just was Jesus did. God gave His son the place of pivotal change in the universe. His place was that of Savior and catalyst of change.
Friends, people who will follow Jesus choose to be a catalyst of change. Whatever it costs. The people at Anitoch and of history have paid a high price.
Some died for their faith. Others hid or ran. All have taken steps of faith to see culture change. No, not the culture of rich or poor, intelligent or ignorant. It is the culture of purpose. God have given us purpose to live.
Lets talk about making a mark on the world around us. Jesus left His DNA for those who wish to be saved. Offered to all. Why we live. What mark are we living, self or Savior. Purpose or pity. Passion or passive.
I believe that the church exist to be a catalyst of change in our world. The choice is ours.
But remember, they had to pay a price. Loosing their pride. Loosing their lives. Living for Jesus. All or nothing.
Colossians 4:5 (nlt) --- Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.
How do people speak of you? How will you be remembered? I choose to be a catalyst of change for Jesus.
Acts 15:26 (nlt) --- who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ .
E-DEVOTIONS are sent on week days from Michael Harrison, lead Pastor of The Community Fellowship in Collinsville, Virginia. E-devotions are intended to encourage your faith in Jesus and your walk with Him. To subscribe, cancel or change your subscription, send an e-mail to Michael at mharrison@thecommunityfellowship.org .
Comments