We ended yesterday with a dramatic book burning as many who
had been sorcerers etc... had become believers in Jesus. Gone was the dark
magic. The account ended with Luke declaring that Word of God was prevailing
mightily.
Now we get two verses catching us up on where Paul has come
from and where he plans to go. Seems odd to have a travel itinerary update. I
believe it serves for at least two purposes. One is that it creates a brief
pause between two highly charged events. We'll come back to that.
The second and perhaps main reason was to remind us again
that Paul's life is Spirit filled and Spirit lead. We will remember that he
went to Macedonia in response to a dream/vision. It was certainly no idea of
his own. After some time there he determined to go to Jerusalem. An eighteen
month or more stop in Ephesus on the way was not part of his plan. Starting a
school to train more "good news dispensers" (evangelists) was not
part of his plan. Being part of some bizarre miracles that lead to the conversion
of a significant number of sorcerers was also not in his day planner.
Now Luke reminds us that Paul is I between Macedonia and his
goal of reaching Jerusalem and eventually Rome. Not only is he
"inbetween" but he is going to remain a while longer because it has
been "purposed in the Spirit." A life surrendered to God may be a
life with many plans and goals but those plans are always subject to the
Spirit's leading. Again we don't use God's Spirit as a tool to accomplish our
purposes. That's the essence of idolatry and paganism. I'm all false religions
we manipulate "the gods" to accomplish or get what we want. In true
religion we are the hands and feet of Jesus to accomplish His purposes in the
lives of others.
Now back to the storm. Paul came to a dark city and claimed
back significant 'territory' (hearts) for God. You can rest assured no
territory is surrendered easily. The storm unleashes tomorrow.
Don't fear the storms. Expect them. Jesus is in the boat. All
is well.
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