Stir Up a Riot

Scripture:

Acts 24:5 "We have found this man to be a troublemaker who is constantly stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the cult known as the Nazarenes".

Observation:

Paul is being tried because he was falsely accused of speaking badly of the temple and bringing Gentiles into the temple. He is dragged from one trial to another like Jesus was and ends up before a governor names Felix. The attorney says the above stated verse about Paul. He says that Paul was a troublemaker who stirred up riots and he was a ringleader. Though he was innocent of these things, it is interesting that he is seen this way.

Application:

When I read the book of Acts and the Gospels I wonder what has happened to the American church. In the beginning, the followers of Jesus were constantly accused of "turning the world upside down with their teaching", "stirring up riots" etc. They were impacting their culture to a level that is shook up things around them and made people mad. I wonder how many Christians today have stirred up a riot because of their faith. I wonder how many today have been accused of turning their world upside down. In the Gospels and Acts great joy would fill the city and riots would break out. Those who accepted the message of Christ were filled with joy, the others were filled with hate. We need some people to live a life that stirs up some riots because the enemy feels threatened.

Prayer:

Lord, give us boldness to preach Your name and proclaim your message to the ends of the earth. Teach us to follow you fully and completely. As for me Lord, i want to stir up some riots and make an eternal impact in my city. I want to see Ashburn Virginia saved and following Jesus. Help us Lord, to so your will and finish your work.

Love,

Jeff