When Paul and Barnabas came to Lystra and Derbe, a man who had been crippled since birth was healed. Amazed, the people jumped to the conclusion that these apostles were gods: Zeus and Hermes. One of the priests of Zeus even began preparations for sacrificing bulls to Paul and Barnabas.
The apostles urged them to stop: “We’re simply men, like you” they said. “But we do know the living God.” Then Paul said: “…We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. In the past, he let all nations go their own way. Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” (Acts 14:15-17, NIV)
Friends, that is the good news. Sometimes we share the good news in the following manner: “Hello, you are a reprobate and a sinner doomed to hell, but Jesus can save you.” All of that is true, of course, and it is good news. But it’s more of a good news/bad news scenario.
So I love the way Paul shared it: “The Almighty God has shown up and, guess what…you already know of him! Every good thing you enjoy in life is a gift from him because he loves you.” That’s good news.
We know that all truth is God’s truth. Our goal as Christians is to speak that truth in love. But let’s start asking the Holy Spirit how we share the truth. Sometimes, we may need to start with God’s answer for sin. But sometimes we may need to start with God’s generous blessings. Different people may deserve different methodologies. If you ask, the Spirit will show you.
