[Acts Inspiration For Transformation Series] The Unstoppable Force Of The GospelSample

Disputing, Deposing, Demonstrating

Pastor Charles Flower

In today’s reading, we will join Paul traveling through Asia. After leaving Corinth, he took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus—a principal city for both land and sea trade routes. Because of the city’s position, whatever shaped the culture there had a significant impact in all of Asia. For this reason, do you think that the enemy stood still and did nothing to oppose? Of course not. 

Disputing

After three months of disputing (from the Greek dialegomai), which means reasoning and arguing persuasively in the synagogue about the Kingdom of God, the hearts of the listeners not only hardened, but their unbelief was deepened. Paul had to put a new strategy into action. He and his disciples left the synagogue and began to engage in daily discussions in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. The result: after two years, all the Jews and Greeks of the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord! 

Deposing

You cannot be an ambassador of a kingdom and confront another kingdom (go into war) without the authority and support given by the king. The seven sons of a Jewish chief priest wanted to expel evil spirits using the name of Jesus. They found out the hard way that the authority to depose dark forces is not attained based on status or affiliations. They did not have a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. As a result, they were assaulted and overcome by evil forces!

Demonstrating

The power of the gospel is once again demonstrated amid opposition. People who had been involved in magic decided to collect and burn their books publicly! Since customs and practices were not only abandoned but also publicly rejected, those who made a living and gained fortunes from these practices began to oppose Paul and his teachings. A man called Demetrius attempted to turn public opinion against Paul by warning people that the local economy would suffer because of his teachings. The whole city was caught up in the uproar, but most of them did not even understand what was happening. 

Respond

Let us be always ready to be the salt and the light of the world. Prepared to give answer to every man or woman that asks us the reason for the hope that is in us with meekness and fear. Let us shine like stars in the sky, seeking out new ways to spread the news of the gospel, inspired by the power of the Holy Spirit. May our relationship with the King of kings enable us to confront the kingdom of darkness and prevail.