RPG Adults
SCATTERED WITH A MISSION
LORD’S DAY, OCTOBER 2
James 1:1b
Acts 8:1-4
“…[they] went every where
preaching the word.”
SCATTERED WITH A MISSION
The term “scattered abroad” (James 1:1, Greek: “diaspora”) is also used by Luke, the author of the Book of Acts, in Acts 8:1. It is strictly a scattering, like seeds being broadcasted for sowing. It is used to describe how the Christians dispersed because of persecution. In this context, the word “abroad” refers to any place outside Jerusalem or Palestine. They probably moved in all directions as the Jewish authorities pursued them.
Identity: The “twelve tribes” (James 1:1) refer to the Jewish believers. It is a term commonly used in the New Testament to refer to the nation of Israel (Matt 19:28; Acts 26:7; Rev 21:12). The believers were then the Jews. It was only later that there were Gentile converts.
Felicity: The word “greeting” (James 1:1) means “rejoice” or “be glad.” It was a standard secular greeting in those days. It was a joyous salutation upon meeting or parting, especially brethren. Although this word appears in no other New Testament canonical epistle, it is a pattern in first-century letters. It does occur in two letters recorded in Acts (15:23; 23:26).
This Epistle was explicitly written to a group of people who were dissociated from their leaders, the Apostles, in the early days as believers of Christ. They needed encouragement and hope during a time of persecution. They also needed corrections amid a troublous situation. The Apostle wanted to remind them of the words of the Saviour so that they would not be found wanting in their Christian walk.
The Lord reaches out to His children through this Epistle to let them know that whatever happens in their lives is for a reason (Acts 8:4). Dear reader, see the Lord’s hand leading you. He may put you in a place you never wanted, not because you do not deserve the “best” (in your opinion), but because He has a higher purpose for your life! You have a mission to fulfil, and your reward will be far greater than you can ever imagine – eternal joy!
THOUGHT: Do I complain when I do not get what I want?
PRAYER: Father, help me to accept where Thou hast put me and cause me to do the work Thou wantest me to do there.