The Wrath of Non Believers

Scripture: Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord. Acts 19:8-10

Observation: This scene repeats everywhere Paul has gone. Paul speaks first in the synagogue, primarily using prophesy to prove the lordship of Jesus; Some Jews believe, but some don't, and those that don't become increasingly hostile in their resistance; Paul then focuses his teaching on the believers, instructing them in the teachings of Jesus; Meanwhile, Paul moves his teaching to a new place to include Gentiles in the Gospel message, and some of them believe.

When we meet non-believers in the place where they live, and in love and truth tell them the good news about Jesus, some simply won't believe. And the ones that don't believe will become increasingly obstinate. We see this ALL the time, all around us. If this is how the great apostle Paul was received, we cannot expect better.

Application: I have always struggled with the idea that there are people "elected" to believe in Jesus. This implies God has excluded some people. I don't believe that ... God loves EVERYONE and we know he wants everyone to return that love and worship him forever. Instead, I believe this concept is that God knows there are people who will reject him, and at some point in time we have done what we can to reach them ... and they are simply becoming abusive now ... so we are to give it a rest and move on.

That isn't to say they are lost. Someone else may try. And of course God himself is at work in their lives. There is always hope. However, eventually you move to the next person - you don't go entirely insularly and withdraw from non believers, you simply find others to address in a new way.

Prayer: Lord, I pray for those who have reached the point of utter contempt for you. For those who not only don't believe, but are openly hostile to the truth of Jesus. But today, I also pray for my fellow Christians who get attacked by those non believers - they incur the wrath of that anger in your name. You yourself called them "blessed", and I pray for that blessing upon them. In the midst of that worldly hostility that is directed at them in your name, please comfort them with your great love, and wrap them in your protection. Amen.