When sharing Jesus gets you in trouble, what’s THAT about?
“With regard to this sect [the Way of Jesus] we know that everywhere it is spoken against.” -Acts 28:22
When Paul comes to share the Good News in Rome, he’s told what he probably already knew: what is “good news” to those who know their need is a threat to those who don’t.
This was foretold, in fact, by a prophet who encountered Jesus just after His birth. Speaking by the Spirit, Simeon said of Jesus, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed…so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:34-35)
When the Truth of God comes to broken people (and we are all broken people), some will receive it with gladness because their hearts are ready to be healed. Others will receive it either with indifference or anger, because their pride is still greater than their pain and they are not willing to lay down sword and shield to be released from their bondage. In fact, they might even turn the sword on you for daring to threaten the shield of their own strength and choices.
When someone speaks against and opposes you when you share the message of Jesus, take heart. It’s likely that this has much less to do with you, and much more to do with them.
