Love God Greatly: EmpoweredSample

There were many God-fearing people in Pisidian Antioch. When Paul and Barnabas reached the city, they began to preach to both believing Jews and Gentiles. When Paul explained the gospel was for Jew and Gentile alike, the Jews became furious. ⁣

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For hundreds of years, the Jews had been God’s chosen people. They were still God’s chosen people, but because of Jesus’ sacrifice, redemption was available to all people. There was a great deal of division between Jews and Gentiles in the first century, and Jews wanted nothing to do with Gentiles. However, as the gospel continued to spread, more and more Gentiles came to faith in Christ. ⁣

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The Gentiles rejoiced when they heard Jesus had come to save them. They rejoiced hearing redemption was not only for the Jewish people but for those from any nation. Their joy caused the gospel to spread in the region. The gospel is not for one people group. The gospel is the message of Christ and the hope of redemption and a relationship with God for all who believe. There is no distinction between those who are in Christ (Gl 3:28). The gospel is for all people, in all times, all cultures, and all nations. This is worth rejoicing over!⁣

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Father God, I thank You for Your provision in allowing me to hear the gospel. I praise You for allowing all to be saved through faith in You. You are good and loving and kind. Help me love others and welcome all into Your church. In Jesus’ name, amen.