TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. Acts 19:9a
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Not everyone likes what Paul is saying. Paul’s trying to convince them that Jesus is the fulfillment of the promises in the Old Testament. That Jesus is God who lived among us, died on the cross, didn’t stay dead and then returned to heaven. Some of them become obstinate. They refuse to believe no matter what Paul says. They’ve made their minds up, and they’re not going to change. They then take their obstinance and put it into action. They become hostile to Paul and the Jesus-message.
Obstinance is refusing to change our minds regardless of what others say. Even though Paul was right—they wouldn’t listen. It can be easy to look down on them, but we all have areas where we are obstinate. Watch this video clip where Pastor Aaron Buer explains their obstinance should be scary for us. Obstinance kills spiritual growth because spiritual growth requires a humble heart that says, “I need to change.” Humility says, “I could be wrong, and I know I’m still growing.” Humility listens instead of jumping straight into an argument. Humility assumes we are wrong about things and desperately wants God’s help to know what we are wrong about. The way to change an obstinate heart is to begin to say “yes” to God.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Reflect on your overall attitude. Consider whether you typically have a spirit of obstinance or a spirit of humility. Ask God to help you be open to changing your mind in those areas where you need to grow spiritually and say “yes.”
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is 2 Timothy 2.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
