Today's Scripture
TODAY’S READING SCHEDULE: Psalms 35 -36; Acts 17:1 -15
The Mob – Acts 17:1-9
Paul and Silas journeyed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, then came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue. 2 As was Paul’s custom, he entered the synagogue and for three Sabbaths interacted with them on the basis of the scriptures. 3 Through his interpretation of the scriptures, he demonstrated that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. He declared, “This Jesus whom I proclaim to you is the Christ.” 4 Some were convinced and joined Paul and Silas, including a larger number of Greek God-worshippers and quite a few prominent women.
5 But the Jews became jealous and brought along some thugs who were hanging out in the marketplace. They formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They attacked Jason’s house, intending to bring Paul and Silas before the people.6 When they didn’t find them, they dragged Jason and some believers before the city officials. They were shouting, “These people who have been disturbing the peace throughout the empire have also come here. 7 What is more, Jason has welcomed them into his home. Every one of them does what is contrary to Caesar’s decrees by naming someone else as king: Jesus.” 8 This provoked the crowd and the city officials even more. 9 After Jason and the others posted bail, they released them.
What does this passage mean to me/us?
Paul was doing what he always did, proclaiming what Christ did for the world. And we see how the Jewish leaders did what they ever did, becoming jealous.
This time, they ‘brought along some thugs’ and formed a mob to intrude at Jason’s place.
It reminded me of the story of Sodom and Gomorrah when the people of the city intruded Lot’s house. It reminded me of the danger of mob mentality, how to lose their common sense when they are in a shouting crowd. It reminded me of how that shouting voice crucified Jesus on the Cross. And it all started with jealousy and the leaders not being able to see themselves face-to-face with God.
We are called to be true to ourselves. We are called to say our name; repent every day, to caution us to be part of this mob.
Prayer
Lord, help us to see face ourselves every day and see your grace through our repentance. In Your Name, we pray, Amen.
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