May 28, 2019

Discerning the Spirits

Jaco Louw | Read Acts of the Apostles 16:25-34

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

May 27—June 2, 2019

Scripture Overview

How did you first hear about the gospel? Was it from your family or a friend? Or was it from a completely unexpected source? This week’s readings remind us that God uses many different techniques of revelation. Paul and Silas are in prison in Philippi, and the guard of the prison has no idea that he is about to encounter the power of God and come to faith. The psalmist says that creation itself reveals God’s glory and power. In Revelation, Jesus speaks directly about his future return and reign, as attested by his messenger and by the Spirit. Jesus prays in John for his followers, because through their unity the gospel will be proclaimed to others. Although Jesus ascends to heaven, the revelation of his plan and purpose does not end.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Acts 16:16-34. Recall a difficult time in your life. Were you able to continue to praise God through this time?
Read Psalm 97. Write your own word picture of what it means to be a child of God, who is in control.
Read Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21. How has Jesus’ invitation to partake of the water of life changed you?
Read John 17:20-26. What signs of division do you see in your community? How can you work toward the oneness to which God calls us?

Respond by posting a prayer.

In today’s reading, we find incredible descriptions of the difference in worldview that exist between Jews and Gentiles, between those enslaved to the ways of the world and those set free by faith in God.

Paul and Silas are imprisoned. They should be sulking at best or enraged at worst...

Subscribe to Continue Reading

Holy God, we come into your presence to ask you to listen to the cries of the oppressed—those who are ill-treated, those who are being treated unfairly. We pray this in the name and Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

1 Comments