Upon Being Invited to Engage

Scripture: After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the leaders of the synagogue sent word to them, saying, "Brothers, if you have a word of exhortation for the people, please speak." Acts 13:15

Observation: Upon the Sabbath reading of scripture, the synagogue leaders - rabbis and Pharisees likely - extend a specific invitation to Paul and Barnabas to speak. Paul steps forward, and begins what I believe is his first recorded Gospel message ... the good news of Jesus, tied directly to old testament prophesy.

It is interesting to see that the message began as an invitation to speak. Paul did not force himself on others, and he did not make himself obnoxious in order to promote his mission, and he did not bellow above the Jewish leaders who were likely teaching a more standard message that day. Paul listened to where these people were at this moment. He saw that they included both Jews and believing Gentiles who therefore were possibly still learning to understand God's past lessons. He waited until he was called upon. Only then did Paul bring forward the most greatest news of all time.

Application: How am I to tell others of Jesus during my daily activities? Paul's example would be this. First observe what others think about life, and their general belief in God. Second, wait to be called upon. Third, speak a clear and direct message about Jesus, tied back to the understanding the listener has about life.

The Church doesn't generally do any of these well. We impose our understanding of God onto situations, pronounce judgments as if they were a welcome understanding of God, and challenge others to listen to our truth. All of that is fine ... we do bring the truth, there is urgency in the message, and all of us are under judgment without faith. However, there is clearly an option.

Paul had stored within him 15 years of waiting to preach on a mission trip. Once in the setting, he understood he could wait a couple hours more, but he was also ready with a positive method for engaging. As always, his is an example to emulate.

Prayer: Today, Lord, I wonder when and how I should act to bring your message into this workplace. I know no one is going to walk up to my desk and ask me to start a bible study. However, I will also look for other types of invitations. And I will be ready, by your Spirit, as you will. Amen.