Being Guilty as Charged

“But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, ‘These who have turned the world upside down have come here too’.” Acts 17:6 (NKJV)

Too often, those of us who claim the name of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior appear to be overwhelmed by the events and issues of life in this world. As this journey unfolds before our face, we frequently cry out, “This world is out of control. Somebody ought to do something.” We read stories and articles on the internet that disturb the very foundation of our being and wonder in fear, “What’s wrong with this world? This world is ‘going to hell in a hand basket.’ Somebody ought to do something.” Well, according to the word of God, that “Somebody” is every soul that professes Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives. We are called to counter the forces of evil in our personal lives and in the world with the “Good News” of God made real through Jesus Christ. (Read: Matthew 16:13-19) We are called to be the instruments of God “in turning the world upside down.”

In our text, Paul has arrived in Thessalonica proclaiming the word of God. He taught for three Sabbath Days at the Jewish synagogue. He reasoned with both the Jews and Greeks through the Holy Scriptures that they might come to see and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Scripture declares that many believed, both Jews and Greeks. In a climate that could cost Paul his life, he dared to be a faithful witness unto Jesus Christ. Paul, Jason and other believers preached the Good News of God to all who would hear them. The fruit of heaven in this matter was, “they were God’s instruments in turning the world upside down” for Jesus Christ. Being found guilty of this charge is yet the work of all who claim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of their life.

Prayer: Lord God, our heavenly Father, help all who profess our faith in Jesus Christ dare to live in a manner that we might experience your power, presence and peace in our lives as we seek to live into our faith in this world. Keep ever before us Your call on our lives to be bold witnesses for Christ in this world that You might use us to turn this world “upside down” to Your honor and Your glory!!! In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.