Personal Update

12/24/24 • 14 min

This is an edited version of a special update first posted to my Patreon community on the 15th December 2024

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This is an edited version of a special update first posted to my Patreon community on the 15th December 2024

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Previous Episode

The Journey and the Joy Continue (Acts 13: 14-52)

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Welcome:
Today, we embark on an exciting journey with Paul and Barnabas as they navigate uncharted territories, bringing the gospel to eager and some not-so-eager ears. Our episode is drawn from Acts 13:14-52, a passage filled with excitement, challenges, and Godly encounters.

We'll witness how the Holy Spirit orchestrates every step, turning obstacles into opportunities for joy. We'll explore the amazing joy that springs from fulfilling God's mission, a joy that sustains and empowers us even amidst trials.

Episode Notes

Episode Title: The Journey and the Joy Continue
Scripture Reference: Acts 13:14-52

Summary:

In this episode, we follow Paul and Barnabas on their mission in Antioch of Pisidia. As they proclaim the transformative message of Jesus Christ in the synagogue, we see the Holy Spirit at work, turning challenges into opportunities and bringing joy amidst trials. We'll delve into the key sections of Acts 13:14-52, examining the boldness and conviction with which Paul and Barnabas spread the gospel, despite opposition.

Key Points:

Arrival in Antioch of Pisidia:
- Paul and Barnabas enter the synagogue and are invited to speak.
- The synagogue service structure and Paul's opportunity to share the gospel.
Paul’s Sermon:
- Paul recounts Israel’s history, emphasizing God's promise of a Savior.
- The fulfillment of this promise through Jesus' death and resurrection.
- The importance of salvation, forgiveness, and justification through faith in Jesus.
Reactions to the Message:
- Positive reception from Gentiles and some Jews.
- Opposition from jealous Jewish leaders.
- The spread of the gospel despite persecution.
Continued Mission:
- Paul and Barnabas’ response to rejection: turning to the Gentiles.
- The joy and filling of the Holy Spirit experienced by new believers.

Reflection Questions:

How do you handle opposition when sharing your faith?
What does the joy of the Lord mean to you, especially in difficult times?
How can you continue in the grace of God daily?

Action Steps:

Reflect on past experiences of sharing your faith and how you can grow from them.
Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in turning challenges into opportunities for joy.
Encourage others to embrace the joy and grace of God in their lives.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through Acts 13. We hope this episode inspires you to embrace the joy and continue spreading the good news, no matter the obstacles.

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Next Episode

Thank You and Happy Christmas

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Dear Listeners and Friends

As we approach this joyous season of Christmas, I want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Your support, prayers, and faithful listening have been a tremendous blessing to me and this ministry throughout the year.

Christmas is a time of great celebration and reflection on the incredible gift of Jesus Christ, who many of us consider our Savior. In Luke 2:10-11, we are reminded of the angel's proclamation: Which said

“'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'"

This message of great joy is the foundation of our faith and the reason we celebrate this season with such enthusiasm.

I pray that this Christmas, your hearts will be filled with the joy of the Lord. May you experience the profound peace that comes from knowing Him, as Jesus Himself said in John 14:27,

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

In a world often filled with uncertainty, His peace is a precious gift.

Christmas is also a time for love, reflecting on the love that many of us experience in our families, a love that God showed us by sending His Son to earth. As 1 John 4:9-10 beautifully states

"This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins."

May you feel the warmth of His love surrounding you and your loved ones this season.

Thank you for being a part of this journey, for listening to the podcast, for sharing it with others, and for your continued encouragement. Your support has been invaluable, and it is because of you that we are able to continue spreading the amazing story of God salvation plan for humankind and the good news of Jesus Christ.

With heartfelt thanks I wish you and your families a blessed and Merry Christmas filled with love, joy, and peace.

Thanks for being with me.

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