TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.” Acts 19:27
Read: Acts 19:28-41
Listen: Acts 19
TODAY’S MESSAGE
The riot in Ephesus is a direct reaction to people following Jesus. Paul teaches here for some time, and people now turn away from other gods and towards Jesus. As a result, these new followers stop going to the temple of Artemis and no longer pay for replica idols. This has a sizeable economic impact on the unhappy craftsmen losing significant business.
This happens in our lives too. Not everyone will be happy with our decision to follow Jesus and change our life as a result. Our decision to follow Jesus might affect others—and we might be surprised at their reactions. Maybe we stop receiving invitations to specific business meetings because we won’t say or do that to clients. Perhaps we notice that our friends stop inviting us out because we don’t want to do the same things we used to do. Family functions might feel different as we choose not to talk about people in that way. May we have the grace to see how our changes may affect others and the faithfulness to move toward Jesus despite negative reactions.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Enjoy this song, “Way Maker.” As you listen, remember that God is at work even when you may not realize it. God may even be working in the hearts of those who reject us the hardest.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is Hebrews 10.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
