Feel Like Quitting?
Acts 18

If you’re like most people, there have been times in your life when you have felt like quitting. Maybe it was just too hard or maybe it was just taking too long or maybe it just became too discouraging. Whatever the reason, I think most of us have felt like quitting. Here’s the good news: you’re not alone because even Paul the apostle, the man who wrote (under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit) much of the New Testament, felt like quitting.

This week in Acts 18 we see Paul enter the city of Corinth a discouraged man. But we will also see how God provided a cure for Paul’s’ discouragement and learn how He provides for us as well.

See ya Sunday!

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

On Sunday as we studied this passage, it was clear that Paul is convinced in the power of the gospel to change lives. It is also clear that he is ready and prepared to share the gospel in a variety of settings and to people who have a variety of different beliefs.

As you consider sharing about Jesus to other people, what is it that stops you? What hinders you from being bold? Several things I thought of might include being afraid of being made fun of, not knowing what to say, being called a "Jesus freak," or maybe even what you believe others think of Christians today (let’s face it - some pretty embarrassing things have been done and said lately in the name of Jesus)?

I think it is important for us to talk about these things and work out ways to change. Why? Because the very eternal lives of people are at stake. What do you think?

This week’s “Reflection” by Jason Gaudy, Elder

When I think about how many things could've derailed early Christianity, adding to the gospel seems like the most dangerous possible thing that could've happened. Finally, we had been set free and immediately people began to try to help God along. Immediately we began to fill in the blank. Jesus +_____________ . What have you filled in the blank with? Whatever it is, by adding legalistic requirements to the gospel, we lose it all together. It seems that it is part of our nature to not truly understand the concept of grace.

As we share with others through our words and our lives, how Jesus saved us and taught us how to live, may we all remember to give them the gospel of freedom and life not of ritual and tradition. The conditional gospel of Jesus +_________ is no gospel at all. May we prefer God's truth over prestige and personal preference. May the good works that we do be as a result of the joy and gratitude we have from our salvation not out of guilt or shame or obligation.

This week’s “Reflection” by Jeff Taylor, Pastor of Teaching & Worship

The Lord has really been speaking to me a lot since Sunday about the call to reach all people with the message and love of Christ. I certainly have a lot of room to grow in making concerted efforts, outside the ministry context, to reach out to people, but God has been faithful even this week to give me opportunities.

My new neighbor, who I have only spoken to briefly, was outside doing his yard work and I was on my way out to the car to go somewhere. This is usually the point where I am so busy or rushed that I hop in the car and zoom off. But this time I was distinctly urged in my heart to stop what I was doing and go talk to him. During our conversation he was really open about how he and his wife are doing as they expect their first baby in September. He talked about some of their fears and anxiety, and I was able to really relate with much of the stuff as Laura and I had experienced many of the same things. I was able to share with him about how prayer through our pregnancies was a big part and offered to pray for he and his wife. He was surprised and even commented that it was a relief that he has a “nice neighbor.” I hope I can keep that up! :)

I share that story as an “if I can do it you can do it” type of encouragement, the way we see the passages about Paul and Barnabas’ journey and their perseverance to share the gospel even through the breakdowns in Acts 14.

Have you had any opportunities to share the love of Christ with anyone lately that you could share here with us as an encouragement? We’d love to hear has God is speaking to your heart, and how you are being used in the lives of people.

Have a great week, even if there are “breakdowns”.