My Minister

  “But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you.  I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.” Acts 26: 16-18 NKJV  

Paul is still in prison. He is brought before King Agrippa and his wife, Bernice, who came to the region with “great pomp”. As Paul faithfully proclaims what happened to him, he describes in detail what the Lord Jesus said to him on the Damascus road.

First Jesus reveals Himself to Paul. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.”

Second Jesus commissions Paul. “…to make you a minister and a witness…” Paul was to open their eyes. Paul was to witness to all people to help them see the truth. What an awesome responsibility.

Third Jesus reassures Paul. “I will deliver you…” How comforting this must have been for Paul. No matter what happened to him, he knew the Lord promised to deliver him from the people. What a relief! Now Paul wouldn’t have to concern himself with whether he would be killed by these people or not. Jesus not only spoke comfort to Paul but also gave him the reason He would deliver him.

Fourth Jesus guides Paul in truth. The Bible teaches us in Romans 10:17 NKJV “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” People have to hear it to be able to obey it. Jesus said in Luke 11:28 NKJV “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

Paul spoke God’s word and lived it before the people. That way they heard the truth and saw it applied practically. The truth will set you free (John 8:38). Free from the power of darkness, from the power of Satan from the power of selfishness. The result of being set free…being adopted into God’s family (Ephesians 1:5), having inheritance in Christ (Romans 8:17) and living forever with Him in eternity (Ecclesiastes 3:11)!

How are we doing on living out God’s Word? Are we sharing it with others?

Lord, thank you for inviting us to join you in the kingdom of God. Help us to share your love with those around us with words and deeds. In Jesus’ name Amen.

© Elizabeth Marks, author of ThinkOnIt Devotions and has a heart for encouraging others with God’s Word. For more devotions, bible studies and a recommended book store, visit http://www.ThinkOnItDevotions.com today.

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