A Year in Luke/Actsનમૂનો

When the Jews rejected Paul, it says that he shook out his garments - a symbolic gesture that essentially signifies he was not going to let the dust of their rejection follow him. We can see him follow Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 7:6: “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.” Paul shows us that rejection is not the end, but simply an indication that the person we are ministering to is not in the place to accept the truth of Christ.

Rejection in ministry does not seem to discourage him too greatly, instead, it helps him identify what is next for his ministry. Even as he shifted the focus of his ministry to the Gentiles (v. 6) God still used his influence in that community to bring salvation to the Jewish people. This shows that although Paul was frustrated with the Jewish people, he was still eager for them to know Christ. He was able to put aside any offense in how they rejected him, extending grace and love to those who still showed interest.