RPG Adults
IN SAMARIA
LORD’S DAY, JANUARY 3
Acts 8:5-8
Mark 16:15-16
“Go ye into all the world,
and preach the gospel
to every creature.”
IN SAMARIA
Philip was one of the deacons chosen of God to help the Apostles when there was an internal dissension in the church (Acts 6). His primary function was to “serve tables” (Acts 6:2), but he was not limited to do that function only but foundationally as a believer, he was also to fulfil the Great Commission. Philip actively went to and taught in the regions beyond his main domain.
Given heed: The people with one accord gave heed to the words of Philip, a manifestation of the Lord’s preparation of their hearts. His words were authenticated with the miracles which he did. This was necessary for Philip at that time since there was no record yet that supported his ministry. Luke’s record, the response of the people to the word and the miracles signified the divine warrant of Philip’s ministry.
Great joy: There was manifested great joy in that city as people received the glad tidings of great joy. There was no exuberant celebration but a spiritual delight in the words and works of God in their midst. This joy is the fruit of the Spirit of God who indwells believers. Preaching the gospel is not work limited only to those who graduate from Bible Colleges and Seminaries. It is a wrong mentality among professing Christians that since they pay their preachers and pastors some kind of remuneration, all the preaching of God’s Word is entrusted to them. The ordinary members in the pew should only faithfully give their tithes and offerings and that is enough. Let the trained do the work.
Is this the attitude of the members of your church? Are you excusing yourself from preaching God’s Word because you have paid your dues to God? Remember what prophet Samuel said, “Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1 Sam 15:22). Fulfil your vows and obey the Great Commission the Lord has commanded to all believers!
THOUGHT: Am I willing to share the gospel?
PRAYER: Lord, please prepare my heart and mind to speak for Thee.