Preaching to the Nations

Scripture: On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. Mark 13:9b-11

Observation: As a few disciples have asked Jesus about the end times, or at least when the temple will be destroyed. Jesus will talk about wars, ethnic fights, false messiahs, 'the abomination that causes desolation', and other signs. However, this passage relates to action by believers themselves.

Jesus does not just generically say that all nations on earth must hear the gospel, as some have paraphrased verse 10. He instead is explicitly saying that the disciples - believers - must preach the gospel to national leaders. They must stand before kings and governors. When arrested and brought before judges, they must preach there, too, with help from the Holy Spirit. This isn't a generic 'go and spread the gospel' instruction, but rather a specific prophesy that believers will face times where they are challenged before governments, heads of state, and kings, and they are to pronounce the gospel as their message and defense to those national leaders. (This, of course, they will do, as we know by tradition that many did do this, and Paul was challenged by a Roman governor of attempting to convert him to Christianity during his trial.)

Application: The good news isn't just to be declared to "all nations" as part of a missions effort. It is to be proclaimed to world leaders, preached in government halls and gatherings, and used as defense in trials. It is to be such a part of what we do, that it would be both cause and covering in our interactions with those of authority.

As I have given thought to my life, I know I want to take actions that proclaim Jesus wherever I am. Today, business leaders are every bit as much 'world leaders' as kings once were. I would seek an opportunity to proclaim the good news to such leaders, to stand in their halls and speak as the Holy Spirit would lead. This is something to ponder as I pray into God's plan for my 'second half'.

Prayer: Lord, as I consider your will, please do guide me in understanding your direction for me. I seek only your path. I will pray more, and listen for your still, small voice. Amen.