as they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions that had been reached by the apostles and elders who were in jerusalem. so the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily. [acts 16:4-5]
the humility of submission to the truth
this decision that had been made by the apostles and elders in jerusalem could have been divisive—it rebuked the party of the pharisees wanting to impose circumcision on the gentiles. what we see here instead is the church being strengthened and their increase in number!
the last time you were confronted with the truth, how did you respond? the last time someone proved you wrong, the last time someone made you aware of your sin, the last time someone showed you a blind spot you had—how did you respond? in defensiveness, or in humility? Jesus said, “if you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (john 8:31-32) do you find yourself set free when confronted with the truth? or does it seem to be an obstacle? the truth is often an obstacle to our pride, but the truth in Christ is freedom!
Lord, teach us the joy of submitting to the truth in your word. kill our desire to be wise in our own eyes, and to depend on your wisdom instead! you are our source of truth; teach us Lord!
~ stephen hall