FOR THE GOSPEL

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Acts 22:24

The commander brought Paul inside and ordered him lashed with whips to make him confess his crime. He wanted to find out why the crowd had become so furious.


Persecution against the believer could be out of ignorance, envy or pure evil. For misunderstanding is what leads to quarrels. 


What did our Lord say about this?


Matthew 5:10-12

God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers.

Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.


Also,


John 16:33

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”


Now is the kingdom of God all about persecution and sorrow? NO! Far from it. NO!


Romans 14:17

For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.


Glory to God.


Thus, as we have been studying the book of Acts, we see how persecution was common to the believers, from beating, abuses and even death. However, we can also see love, unity and joy as believers gather and fellowship.


One question we must ask ourselves as believers is "What have we given for the gospel?" Forget all the motivational talks and babbles we hear from both outside and from the alters. He who is blessed is blessed, they don't struggle to make it ("make it" as we call it). For many think that prosperity in ministry is crowd in the church and earthly wealth. THEY HAVE MISSED IT.


Has God approved you? If they search through your records like Daniel will you come out clean?


Really many even in the church,  don't even know what the gospel is. I blame the teachers and ministers we have today, they have fed the people soured food. Lord have mercy.


As we remember what Christ payed for our salvation - What have you sacrificed? Not to make one individual or group of individuals rich, but what really have you given for the Gospel.


Help us Good Lord.


He calls us blessed.


Love

@the watcher.

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